Staining Your Deck
Product Used: Benjamin Moore Arborcoat Semi-Transparent Stain
Summer is just around the corner in Canada, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to enjoy your outdoor space, including your deck. Many homeowners are already thinking about how to prepare their decks for the season. Whether you're looking to stain or paint your deck, there are a few things you need to consider to ensure your deck looks its best and lasts as long as possible. In this blog post, we will discuss the difference between painting and staining, how to prepare your deck for paint or staining, and the benefits it has on your deck's appearance and longevity.
Why Paint or Stain Your Deck?
Let's get into our first point which is simply, why should you bother painting or staining your deck? Well, there are a few reasons & benefits:
Protection: Painting or staining your deck provides an added layer of protection against the elements. Canadian summers can be hot and dry, but also wet and humid, this can cause cracking, warping, and rotting. Adding a layer of protection can extend the lifespan of your deck.
Aesthetics: Painting or staining your deck can help to enhance its appearance. A fresh coat of paint or stain gives your deck a new lease on life, making it look brand new. You can also choose from a variety of colours and finishes to match your personal style.
Increased Home Value: A well-maintained deck can add value to your home. If you plan on selling your home in the future, a freshly painted or stained deck can be a selling point.
Reduced Maintenance: A painted or stained deck requires less maintenance than an untreated deck. The paint or stain helps to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating, which can make cleaning easier.
If you’ve decided that your deck could use a little love this year, below you'll find the proper steps to prepare your deck for painting or staining, and also the differences in appearance between a painted or a stained deck.
Preparing Your Deck for Paint or Staining
Before you start painting or staining your deck, you need to prepare it properly. This involves a few steps:
Clean your deck thoroughly: Use a pressure washer or a stiff brush to remove any dirt, grime, or debris from your deck's surface.
Repair Any Damage: Once your deck is clean, inspect it for any damage. Look for loose boards, nails, or screws, and repair or replace them as needed.
At this point MountainWood Painting Co. can assist from here on out, however if this is a DIY project then please continue reading!
Sand the Surface: After repairing any damage, sand the entire surface of your deck to remove any rough spots or splinters. This will also help the paint or stain adhere better.
Optional steps include: Applying a Sealer or a Wood cleaner to the deck. Before you start painting or staining, applying a sealer to your deck helps protect it from moisture and sun damage. Allow the sealer to dry completely before proceeding. By using a wood cleaner this can help remove any stains or marks that may be on your deck.
Allow the deck to dry: Make sure your deck is completely dry before you start painting or staining.
Now that you’ve heard the proper way to prepare your deck, and the benefits of staining or painting, let’s get into Staining Vs. Painting and which would fit your ideal outcome.
Painting vs. Staining
When it comes to deck maintenance, you have two options: paint or stain. But which one should you choose? Here are some pros and cons of each:
Painting:
Pros:
Provides a smooth, even finish
Comes in a wide range of colors
Can cover up imperfections in the wood
Cons:
Can peel or crack over time
Can be slippery when wet
Can be difficult to remove once it's on
Staining:
Pros:
Penetrates the wood, providing long-lasting protection
Enhances the natural beauty of the wood
Comes in a range of colors and finishes
Cons:
Requires more maintenance than paint
Can be difficult to apply evenly
May not cover up imperfections in the wood
Ultimately, the decision between painting and staining your deck comes down to personal preference. If you want a smooth, even finish that covers up imperfections, go for paint. If you want to enhance the natural beauty of the wood and provide long-lasting protection, go for stain.
In conclusion, preparing your deck for the summer season by painting or staining it can provide many benefits. It not only protects your deck from the elements, but it can also give it a fresh, new look and increase your home's value. Follow the steps outlined in this blog post to prepare your deck properly, or call us so we can help you create your ideal outdoor space to enjoy all summer long!