If there is one thing you should know about deck staining, it is that unless you have the right products, equipment, and quite a bit of patience, it is best to have a professional take care of it for you. That is the first and probably most important tip of all, but there are some additional tips that can help you get the best possible results.
- Expect Prep Work- Conducting a deck staining project without properly preparing the surface is a recipe for disaster. Every deck is different in terms of what needs to be done. Your deck may just need pressure washing to prepare the surface for maximum absorbency. It might also need anywhere from a light to a heavy sanding, taking care to clean up all the dust before proceeding. You can make the process go more smoothly by having all furniture removed from your deck.
- Discuss Expectations- You really can’t go by the sample color swatches you’ll see at big box retailers and other places. There are many things that affect the end result, including whether a deck brightener is used, the type and age of the wood, and how heavy a layer of stain is used. While you can and should discuss the overall visual effect you are looking for, understand that it won’t be an exact match. If you have an inconspicuous area where a test can be done, that isn’t a bad idea.
- Choose Season- Deck staining must be done when there is no threat of rain and the temperatures are within the range recommended by the stain being used. Typically, you want an ambient temperature between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit so that the deck stain dries at the right rate.
If you would like to know more about deck staining or get a quote for your home in the Charlotte, North Carolina area, give us a call at Pride Painting, Inc. We are one of the longest-standing painting companies in the area and are dedicated to providing high-quality workmanship and the highest level of customer service possible, so you can be confident your project will come out like you envision. Call today to learn more.