Your deck is one of the most important parts of your home — it’s the place where you can relax, entertain friends and family, or simply enjoy a beautiful day outside. But in order to ensure that your deck looks its best all year round, it needs to be properly maintained.
One of the best ways to maintain your deck is by regularly staining it. But when is the best time of year to do this?
At JLM Painting, we’re here to help make sure that you get the most out of your deck with our Marin and Sonoma County painting and staining services. Read on to learn more about when is the best time to stain a deck!
Why Do You Need to Stain a Deck?
It’s important to stain your deck because it protects the wood from weathering and fading. UV rays from the sun can damage wood, making it more susceptible to rot and decay. Staining also enhances the appearance of your deck, giving it a richer, more vibrant color. If you wait too long to stain your deck, the wood will become dry and cracked, which makes it more difficult to apply the stain evenly.
Signs You Need to Stain Your Deck
If your deck is starting to show signs of wear and tear, it may be time to give it a fresh coat of stain. Here are some telltale signs that your deck could use a little TLC:
- The wood is dull and faded: Once your deck is stained or painted, the finish will protect the wood from UV rays and weathering. Over time, though, the finish will start to break down, leaving the wood looking dull and faded.
- There are bare spots: If you start to notice bare spots on your deck, it means that the stain or paint has worn away completely in those areas. These spots are more susceptible to damage from the elements, so it’s important to address them as soon as possible.
- The wood is cracked or splintered: If the wood on your deck is cracked or splintered, it’s not only unsightly, but it can also be dangerous. Cracks and splinters can cause people to trip and fall, so it’s important to repair them as soon as possible.
- You can see mildew or mold on the deck: When you begin to see either mildew or mold growing on the boards of your deck, you definitely want to clean and stain your deck. This can lead to health issues and weakened wood, both of which are dangerous.
A fresh coat of stain will help to protect the wood from further damage. At the first notice of any of these signs, it is time to start planning for a new coat of stain.
How Often Do You Need to Restain Your Deck?
If you have a wooden deck, it’s important to keep up with the staining. This will help to protect the wood from weather damage and keep it looking its best. Depending on the type of wood and the finish, you may need to do this every one to three years. If you’re not sure how often to stain your deck, just give us a call and we’ll be happy to help.
The Best Time of Year to Stain Your Deck
If you are planning to stain your deck, the best time of year to do it is in the spring or fall. The weather is not too hot or cold, and there is typically less rain during these months. You will want to make sure that you clean your deck before applying any stain, and JLM Painting can help with that too!
The Worst Time of Year to Stain or Paint Your Deck
If you’re looking to stain your deck, the worst time of year to do so is during the summer. The hot sun can cause the stain to blister and peel, and the high temperatures make it difficult for the stain to cure properly.
Tips for Staining Your Deck
Assuming you have a wood deck, the best time of year to stain your deck is in the late spring or early summer when the weather is warm and dry. You don’t want to do it in the middle of summer when it’s hot because the stain will dry too quickly and won’t have time to set properly. You also don’t want to do it in the winter because it’s too cold and the stain won’t adhere properly.
If you’re planning on staining your deck, make sure you choose a stain that is specifically for decks. Deck stains come in a variety of colors, so you can choose one that matches your house or goes with the color scheme of your outdoor furniture.
Once you’ve decided on a color, make sure you prep the surface of your deck before beginning. This means power washing it to remove any dirt, grime, mildew, or other debris that might prevent the stain from adhering properly. Once you’ve power washed it, let it dry for a few days before beginning.
Finally, make sure you have all the necessary materials on hand before you start staining. You’ll need a quality brush, a roller, and some drop cloths to protect your grass and landscaping from any accidental spills. If you’re staining, you’ll need rags to wipe away any excess stain.
Call JLM Painting Today to Get Help with Staining Your Deck
Staining your deck is an important part of maintaining its beauty, so it’s important to choose the right time of year for these projects. JLM Painting provides staining services with professional results. If you’re looking to freshen up your outdoor area, don’t hesitate to give JLM Painting a call!