Choosing the Right Stain for Your Deck

Before starting the application process, choosing the appropriate exterior Benjamin Moore stains for decks is the first step. With so many options available, let's discuss what to look for.

Transparency and Color

Decide whether you prefer a transparent, semi-transparent, or solid-color stain. Transparent stains retain the natural beauty of the wood, while semi-transparent ones add a hint of color, and solid stains offer full coverage.

Deck Wood Type

Different wood types require different stains. Our experts are happy to help you find the right stain for the wood of your deck.

Climate and Protection Needs

Look for stains with UV protection and mold resistance. Harsh UV rays especially can cause damage and fading to your stained deck. Your climate and other elements, like shade levels, can significantly affect the wood of your deck, and the stain you use should protect it against the elements in your area.

Stain Aesthetic

Choose between matte, satin, or glossy finishes.

Preparing Your Deck for New Stain

 Prepping your deck for a new stain is essential to the staining process.

1. Clean the deck thoroughly: Sweep debris like leaves, sticks, etc. If necessary, scrub more stubborn spots to remove old dirt and residue.
2. Repair any damaged areas: Check for things like cracks or loose pieces of wood.
3. Smooth out rough patches: Use sandpaper or a sanding machine to level uneven surfaces. This step will create a nice, smooth canvas for your new deck stain.
4. Move or cover any plants, decor, or furniture: Staining could damage these items, so moving them is essential to their protection.

Staining Your Deck

Now that your deck is ready for its new spring stain, you must choose the right conditions:

Watch the Weather Before You Stain

Try to choose a day with mild temperatures and low humidity. Overly humid weather or harsh temperatures and rain can affect the quality of your staining and the drying time. On the other hand, staining directly, blazing sun, and heat can cause the stain to dry too quickly while you're still in the application process, causing uneven results.

Choose the Right Tools for Staining

There are many staining tools, such as rollers, regular paint brushes, and even sprayers. You'll want to consider your budget and deck size.

It's Time to Stain Your Deck for Spring!

Don't stress! Just follow these basic steps:

1. Following the direction of the wood grain, apply your Benjamin Moore stain in smooth strokes or sprays to small areas at a time. Try to coat as evenly as possible and avoid overdoing some parts or missing others. Clean up any drips right away before they dry.
2. If you need to apply multiple coats, use thin coats and allow them to dry properly in between staining.
3. Check for any missed spots or uneven coverage. Touch up quickly.

Maintaining Your Newly Stained Spring Deck

After completing the staining process, it's vital to maintain the newly stained deck so you can tackle any minor issues before they become significant problems.

Sweep or gently rinse the deck periodically to remove debris and prevent buildup.

Check often for problems or signs of wear and tear, fading or peeling, and take care of them as they arise.

Depending on the wear, traffic, and exposure to elements, plan to reapply exterior stain for decks every few years for best results.

Find Deck Stain Near Bourbonnais, Illinois

At John Paul's Paint and Decor in Bourbonnais, Illinois, we pride ourselves on being indoor and outdoor paint and stain experts. Our staff will happily help you find the perfect exterior stain for decks based on your project's needs. We serve the surrounding area, including Kankakee, Bradley, and Pontiac. Visit us today or contact us online to get started.