Staining Your Wood Fence and Deck

by Kevin Smith Author

If your wood fence or deck has become cracked or discolored, it's time for fence and deck staining. The staining will make your fence or deck look better and last longer, and sealing will slow the signs of decay and rot.

The Staining Process

The staining process involves three steps:

The old deck or fence must be cleaned. A pressure washer is used to remove dirt and debris. Special chemicals clean the surface.
A stain is added to the deck or fence. A transparent stain lasts longer than natural or most clear sealers.
The wood is sealed to protect the deck or fence from future damage from the weather.

Damage to Wood

Over the years, the wood in your fence or deck is subject to much abuse. Ice, snow, and water take a toll on the wood. Wood can rot, crack, or become warped. Insects can destroy a fence. The sun discolors the surface of a deck. A deck is subject to foot travel, so the surface becomes worn. The deck also attracts leaves and other debris.

Deck and fence staining in Cartersville yields many benefits:

Staining seals and waterproofs the wood. This slows the damage from rain and snow.
Staining protects wood from mold and harmful effects of the sun.
Staining restores wood that has been exposed to the elements. Staining is a lot cheaper than rebuilding a deck or a fence.
Staining makes your fence last longer and adds to the value of your property. A deck or fence can quickly show the signs of neglect.

Paint or Stain?

Staining a deck or a fence has some advantages over painting the deck or fence. Decks are subject to foot travel, and stained wood holds up better than painted wood. Paint does not withstand weather conditions as well as a deck or fence with a waterproof stain. Paint will start to peel or crack.

The Color of the Stain

A transparent stain has more color pigments to protect the wood from the ultra-violet rays of the sun. Transparent stains come in different colors. It's important to choose the right color stain from the start. If you decide to change colors, the previous stain must be removed before a new coat can be applied. A solid-color stain allows some of the texture and grain of the wood to show.

Reapplication

After your deck and fence staining in Cartersville, your old deck and fence will look new again. Depending on weather conditions, your deck and fence will need a reapplication every 1 to 3 years. Mother Nature will let you know when your deck and fence need attention.