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Because there are so many stains to choose from, staining or sealing a deck is often regarded as a perplexing task. It's also unclear whether and how often to stain the deck to keep it looking nice. A well-kept deck not only looks good, but it will also survive longer. The type of deck material, the present state of the wood utilized, and other considerations all play a role in deck staining or sealing.
Staining a New Deck
A coat of paint or stain should be applied to all new wooden decks. All new decks should be allowed to dry for at least 30 days before staining or painting. Even though a finish can be put right after construction, it requires more work, so it's better to wait until the wood is completely dry before applying it.
These are basic recommendations; the timeline will vary depending on your climatic conditions; for instance, wood in a dry, arid climate will cure faster than wood in a moist, humid climate.
Lumber that has been pressure-treated
Before applying stain or any other wood treatment, pressure-treated lumber should be left to dry for at least 6 months. Pouring water on the boards is an excellent test. It's still too wet if it beads up. It's ready to stain if the water soaks in.
Kiln-dried lumber
Kiln-dried lumber makes up the majority of what you'll find in a hardwood store. Allow at least one to two months for this wood to dry before staining or painting it.
Green wood
Green wood refers to wood that has been recently cut. Green treated lumber, on the other hand, is wood that has been given an anti-rot treatment. Despite the fact that it's not the finest material to work with because it can distort and fracture as it dries, some people still use it because it's readily available. Allow at least one year per inch of thickness for green lumber to dry, and more if possible.
Factors to Consider for Staining
Examine your deck
Check if the deck is protected before staining. Spray water on the deck's surface; if the water stays on the surface, the deck is secure. If the water soaks through your deck, you should be aware that it is at risk of rotting, splitting, and bending. In this scenario, you must stain your deck as soon as possible.
Consider the weather conditions
Decks in shady, humid environments are prone to additional wear and tear. Humidity starts to wipe away the stain, allowing fungus and mould to enter the wood. Decks that are exposed to year-round sun or dampness may require more frequent staining and sealing to keep up with the weathering process.
Usage of Deck
Heavy use of the deck will wear down the stain and sealer more quickly, requiring you to refinish it more frequently than usual. If you live near the beach, your deck will need to be repainted more frequently, as the precious sealer and stain will be worn away with each step away from the sand.
Want to restore the look of your deck? Contact Deck Staining Services in Avon, CT
