If you’re planning on staining your deck, you must know what types are available and what to look for in a product. This article will cover standard colors and costs. In addition to colors, other factors to consider when choosing a stain include maintenance and cost.
Options for staining a deck
Regarding deck staining, there are many options to choose from. Stains are easier to apply than paint, and they penetrate the wood’s pores to improve the deck’s resistance to moisture. They are also a more affordable option than painting. And when choosing a deck stain, match the color and wood type to the material.
If you’d like your deck to last longer, you can go with a water-based stain. These stains provide outstanding UV protection and keep mildew and peeling at bay. They also protect your deck from mold. However, they require up to 14 days to cure.
If you want to spend less money on a stain, you can try an outdoor stain with great reviews. Ready Seal is an excellent option because it is easy to apply and protects against the elements. In addition, the company is known for producing high-quality wood stains and paints. Ready Seal is available in thousands of colors and comes in solid, semi-transparent, and translucent finishes.
Common colors
If you have a large deck and want to make the most of it, you can stain it in various colors. One of the most popular types of deck stain is brown. This color is versatile and can be used on all wood types. However, it is essential to note that browns often have a red undertone. If this is the case, you may choose a color with solid red undertones, such as chestnut brown.
Green is another color that can be used on a deck. Although it may not be considered a neutral color, green can create a seamless look with a grassy yard. Green can range from rich avocado green to darker woodland green. This color also pairs well with yellows and browns.
Semi-transparent stains are another popular choice among homeowners. This stain offers some opacity but allows the wood grain to be seen. This stain is less opaque than solid stains, but it can help you get a uniform color.
Maintenance
If your deck has been stained, several basic steps must be followed to maintain the stain if it has been degraded. The first step is to inspect your deck for signs of dirt, mold, and mildew. You can also test the stain by letting it soak up some water. If it isn’t resistant to water, it will start to rot and eventually need to be replaced.
Another step is to inspect your deck once a year to ensure it is still looking its best. First, you must wash the deck surface with a mild wood wash and allow it to dry for 48 hours. Once it dries, use sandpaper to remove scratches, then reapply a thin coat of stain. This touch-up will result in a slight color variation, but experts believe the benefits of a longer lifespan of the stain are worth it.
Another step is to regularly pressure wash your deck, especially if it is exposed to sunlight. This step will help the stain penetrate the wood fibers. Finally, applying a maintenance coat is much easier than the initial coat. It will take only half the amount of stain you used for the initial coat.
Cost
While the maintenance of your deck is your responsibility, you will also be reimbursed by SCA for the cost of the deck stain. The stain you choose should be a semi-solid, oil-based stain such as Ready Seal’s Chestnut Brown. The only other requirement is that the doors on your deck must be white.
The cost of deck staining depends on a few factors, including labor. Labor rates can vary by region, so it’s essential to research the cost of your stain before committing to it. Generally, a small deck will cost between $1.25 to $1.50 per square foot, but a large patio will likely cost $2.00 or more. In addition to labor costs, you’ll also need to consider the time required to prepare the deck for staining.
There are two main types of deck stains: oil-based and water-based. Oil-based stains are an excellent choice to create a durable finish and provide long-lasting protection against the elements. However, oil-based stains require more frequent application, so you might need to apply a new coat every three to five years.
