How to Stain and Seal Outdoor Decks: A Complete Guide

Knowing how to stain and seal outdoor decks are essential in protecting them from the elements. Constant exposure to sun, rain, and changing weather conditions can take a toll on your wood deck. Without routine deck maintenance that includes inspections, your wood deck can become weathered, cracked, and vulnerable to mold and rot, leading to costly deck repairs or eventually a complete deck replacement.

In this blog guide, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the difference between sealing and sealing to protect your deck. We’ll also cover how often to apply staining and sealing treatments, select the right products for your wood type, and techniques for applying staining and sealing products.

Deck Staining vs. Deck Sealing

Deck Staining

Purpose
Staining adds color to the wood and offers some protection against UV rays and water damage.
Protective varnishes
often contain pigments that protect the wood from sun damage and can help repel moisture, but their water resistance is not as strong as that of sealants.
Aesthetic stains
come in a variety of transparency levels, from clear to solid, allowing you to enhance the natural beauty of the wood or completely change its color.
Penetrating stains
penetrate the wood to some extent, offering moderate protection from the inside.

Deck Sealing

Purpose
Sealing provides a waterproof barrier to protect the deck from moisture, preventing swelling, warping and rotting of the wood.
The protective seal
does not add color, but it provides a strong moisture barrier, preventing water from penetrating the wood.
Aesthetic sealants
are generally clear and do not alter the natural appearance of the wood. Some may add a slight shine.
Penetrating sealants
tend to form a barrier on the surface, offering more external protection against water.

Why Staining and Sealing Your Deck Matters

Staining and sealing play different but equally important roles in year round deck maintenance. Here’s why they’re both important for deck protection. Since wood isn’t as naturally durable as other decking materials like composite, protecting your wood deck with staining and sealing will extend its longevity and durability.

UV Protection (Stains): UV rays from the sun can cause wood to fade, crack, and dry out over time. A good deck stain acts as a barrier against the sun, preventing these problems. Pigmented stains block harmful UV rays and keep your deck’s color lasting longer.
Moisture Repellent (Sealing): Sealing your deck protects it from water damage by forming a waterproof barrier, preventing the wood from swelling, warping, or rotting. While some stains offer moisture resistance, sealants are specifically designed to prevent water from penetrating the wood.
Enhanced durability: A well-maintained deck stain, combined with a sealer, strengthens your deck against the defenses of foot traffic, insects, and harsh weather conditions. This dual protection helps extend the life of your deck
Aesthetic appeal (stains): Stains come in a variety of shades, from clear to solid, allowing you to enhance the natural beauty of the wood or give your deck a whole new look. Sealing, on the other hand, typically maintains the natural appearance of the wood while adding a slight sheen, but no color.

How Deck Stains and Sealants Work on Various Types of Wood

The effectiveness of deck stains and sealants can vary depending on the type of wood used. Here’s how they work on different wood species:

Softwoods (e.g. pine, cedar, redwood): These woods are porous and absorb stains well, making them ideal candidates for staining. They also benefit significantly from sealants, which protect against moisture absorption and prevent problems such as swelling and rot.
Hardwoods (e.g. Ipe, Mahogany, Teak): Although these woods are denser, making it harder for stains to penetrate, they still benefit from staining for color and UV protection. Sealants are also essential, but may be less effective if they can't penetrate the wood as easily.
Pressure-treated wood: This type of wood is resistant to rot and insect damage. Staining and sealing are crucial to maintaining its appearance and protection, but you should wait until the wood is sufficiently dry (typically 6 to 12 months after installation) before applying any products.
Composite Wood: Sealants are not typically used on composite materials because they are designed to be low maintenance. However, applying a UV protective sealant can help preserve the color of your composite deck.

When Should You Stain or Seal Your Outdoor Deck?

The frequency of staining and sealing your deck depends on several factors, including the climate, the type of wood used, and the quality of the products applied. Here is a general guide:

Staining Every 1–2 Years: If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain or intense sunlight, you may need to stain your deck every 1–2 years to ensure the wood remains protected from UV rays and maintains its aesthetic appeal.
Sealing Every 1–3 Years: Deck sealers are generally applied less frequently than stains. Sealing every 1–3 years is enough to maintain waterproof protection. However, if your deck is constantly exposed to moisture (like in rainy or coastal areas), sealing every 1–2 years may be necessary.
Annual Inspection: Regardless of the climate, inspect your deck annually. Check for signs of fading, water damage, or cracking. If water no longer beads on the surface, it's time to reapply the sealer or stain.

How to Stain Your Deck

Preparation: To start, clean your deck using a deck cleaner to remove dirt, grime, and mildew. Allow the deck to dry completely for 24-48 hours.
Sanding: If the wood is rough or has an old peeling stain, sand the surface lightly using a power sander or sanding block to ensure better adhesion of the staining product.
Choosing Tools: Use a high-quality brush, roller, or sprayer to apply the stain. A brush is preferable for better control, especially in corners and crevices.
Application: Work in sections, applying the stain evenly and following the wood grain. If using a roller or sprayer, back-brush to work the stain into the wood.
Drying: Allow the stain to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 4-8 hours). Apply a second coat if necessary, ensuring the first coat is dry.

How to Seal Your Deck

Preparation: Make sure the deck is clean and dry. Any dirt or moisture can interfere with the sealing process.

Choosing a Sealer: Select a clear or tinted sealer based on your preferences and the type of wood.
Application: Use a brush, roller, or sprayer to apply the sealer evenly across the deck, working in sections to ensure the product is applied liberally without pooling.
Drying: Let the sealer dry completely, following the manufacturer's recommendations, usually 24-48 hours, depending on humidity and temperature.
Final Inspection: After the sealer is dry, inspect the surface for any missed spots or areas needing a touch-up.

Building Your Deck Maintenance Routine

Year-round deck maintenance is essential if you want to prolong the lifespan of your deck. In addition to staining and sealing, consider the following seasonal tasks:

Spring: Clean your deck thoroughly with a cleaner to remove dirt, debris, and mildew.
Summer: Check for signs of wear and tear. If the stain is fading or water no longer beads on the surface, it’s time to reapply the stain or sealer.
Fall: Inspect the wood for cracks, splitting, or areas where moisture may have penetrated. Make repairs before the cold weather sets in.

Get Started with a Professional Deck Inspection

Do you need professional deck inspection or repair services ? CanaDeck’s professional deck contractors are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

By scheduling a professional deck inspection and addressing potential repairs early, you can ensure that your outdoor space remains in excellent condition year-round.