How To Prep A Deck For Stain

If you have a new wood deck, it will require minimal preparation for staining. However, if you’re refurbishing an older deck, proper preparation is crucial to achieve a beautiful, long-lasting finish. Whether your deck is brand new or has been weathered by the elements, following the right steps will ensure it looks its best and stays protected. With the right preparation, you can achieve professional results that will make your deck the envy of the neighborhood. 

Steps to Properly Prep a Deck for Stain

1. Check the Weather

Before you begin, check the weather forecast. You need 3-5 dry days for the stain to properly migrate into the wood to repel moisture once it is applied. Ideally, temperatures should be between 50°F and 90°F.

2. Examine Your Deck’s Condition

Look over your deck carefully. Check for damaged boards, loose nails, or other issues that need fixing. Replace any damaged wood and secure loose nails or screws. This will ensure a smooth, even finish when you stain.

3. Test the Stain

Choose a small, inconspicuous area of the deck to test your chosen stain. This helps you see how the wood will react and ensures you’re happy with the color before committing to the entire deck.

4. Clear and Sweep

Remove all furniture, plants, and other items from your deck. Sweep thoroughly to remove loose dirt and debris. This step is essential for effective cleaning and staining.

5. Apply CUTEK Wood Reviver

Ideal for rejuvenating your wood, CUTEK Wood Reviver effectively cleans and prepares the surface. Learn more and purchase here.

6. Rinse / Powerwash

Following CUTEK’s guidelines, rinse thoroughly using a pressure washer set to approximately 50 bar (750 p.s.i.) with a wide fan jet pattern, maintaining a safe distance to prevent wood damage. See the full CUTEK Wood Reviver guide.

7. Stain the Deck

Once the deck is clean and dry, it’s time to apply the stain. We recommend using CUTEK Extreme, available at LENCO Supplies. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results. Apply the stain evenly, and use a brush for hard-to-reach areas. Allow the stain to dry completely before placing furniture back on the deck.

A Note On Sanding Your Deck

You may be wondering, “Do I really need to sand my deck before staining?” Sanding your deck before staining is not always necessary, but here’s what you need to consider:

If your deck is newly built, sanding is usually not required unless there are rough spots or splinters on the wood. New wood typically has a smooth surface that allows stain to penetrate effectively without the need for additional preparation. However, it’s important to clean the deck thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.

For older decks, sanding can make a significant difference in the final appearance and longevity of the stain. Here are a few scenarios where sanding is recommended:

• Rough Surface: If your deck has a rough surface, sanding will smooth out the wood, making it more comfortable to walk on and improving the overall look.
• Previous Coatings: If your deck has old stain or paint that is peeling or flaking, sanding will help remove the remnants and provide a clean surface for the new stain to adhere to.
• Mill Glaze: Newer wood, especially pressure-treated lumber, can have a hard, shiny surface known as mill glaze. Sanding lightly helps open up the wood’s pores, allowing the stain to penetrate better.
• Gray Wood: If the wood has turned gray due to sun exposure, sanding can help restore the natural color before staining.

For detailed guidance on whether your deck needs sanding, refer to the CUTEK Wood Stripper factsheet. After stripping, it’s advisable to use CUTEK Wood Reviver to ensure the wood is perfectly prepped for staining. Check the FAQ for more on sanding.

Final Thoughts:

Preparing your deck with the right products and techniques is essential for a stunning and 

durable finish. Using CUTEK products like Wood Reviver and CUTEK Extreme ensures your deck not only looks great but also stands up to the elements effectively. Visit our store to find all the CUTEK products you need for your decking project.