Staining your deck is an important investment in protecting your outdoor space and creating the environment and curb appeal you want for your home. However, deck staining requires a lot of careful planning and forecasting (literally with the weather). So what happens if it rains after staining your deck? It’s understandable for panic to ensue, but the good news is, in many cases, rain after staining a deck doesn’t automatically mean disaster. The outcome depends on timing, weather conditions, and the type of deck stain used.
In this blog post, we’ll walk through what actually happens if it rains after staining a deck, what to look for, and what to do next.
In This Post
Is Rain the Day After Staining a Deck Always a Problem?
We’ve seen plenty of situations where rain the day after a deck is stained ends up being totally fine, especially if the stain had enough time to penetrate and start curing.
However, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the specific product being used.
For example, one of the most common products we use is TWP 100 Series deck stain, which recommends 48 hours of dry weather after staining.
According to the product data sheet:
Allow 48 hours after last exposure to moisture for substrate to thoroughly dry. Watch local weather forecasts BEFORE you apply TWP® to assure no rain or cold temperatures 2-3 days after application: Do not apply this product in a way that will contact any person or pet. Do not apply when threat of rain is imminent, when windy conditions or cold temperatures exist for the day of and day after applying.
Rain within the first 24-48 hours after application will likely damage the finish, causing blotches, streaks, or peeling. You should allow the deck to dry completely before assessing the damage and making any repairs, which may include a light cleaning or spot-sanding and re-staining the affected areas.
Why Rain After Staining a Deck Can Be a Problem
Rain (even the tiniest amount of mist or sprinkles) can interfere with how deck stain bonds to the wood.
Here’s why:
Washout
Rain can wash the stain away before it fully absorbs, especially if it hasn’t had time to penetrate and bond with the wood fibers.
Uneven Appearance
Pooling water or streaking rain can cause blotches, uneven coloring across the deck surface, and a poor finish.
Compromised Protection
If rain soaks into the wood too soon, it can displace the stain, leading to premature peeling, flaking, or fading, which shortens the life of the finish.
What to Do If It Rains After Staining Your Deck
Even with the most watchful eye on the forecast, we simply can’t control the weather. If rain sneaks up on you, take the proper steps to fix it and minimize any potential damage.
Here’s the best approach:
1. Let the Deck Dry Completely
Once the rain stops, give the deck time to dry fully. This is crucial before you do anything else, so be patient. Trying to stain or repair a damp deck can make things even worse.
2. Inspect the Damage
After the deck is dry, look for visible signs of damage, such as:
- Water spots
- Blotchy or uneven color
- Peeling
- Areas where the stain looks thin or washed away
Some decks look completely fine once dry and others may need minor touch-ups.
3. Make Repairs If Needed
Perform any repairs as needed:
- Minor damage: If the damage is minimal, gently cleaning the area with a mild detergent and water may be sufficient.
- Major damage: For more significant damage, you will likely need to sand down the affected spots, remove any loose stain, and then apply a fresh coat of stain to those areas. Doing this can usually restore the finish without redoing the entire deck.
4. Consider Future Protection
To help prevent future issues, consider applying a water-repellent sealant over the stained deck once it is fully cured.
Can You Prevent Issues From Rain After Staining a Deck?
The best protection for your stained deck is to complete the proper prep steps and follow professional application guidelines.
- Always check the forecast and avoid staining when rain is expected.
- Use high-quality stains and sealants designed for durability and moisture resistance.
- Allow proper drying and curing time before foot traffic or putting furniture back in place.
Once the deck is fully cured, ongoing maintenance matters too. You can learn more about proper care in our guide on how to maintain a deck after staining.
Choosing the Right Deck Stain Makes a Big Difference
Not all deck stains are created equal, and some are better suited for climates that get more rainfall and humidity (like us here in Raleigh!). Selecting the right product for your climate, wood type, and exposure level is key to getting the best finish possible.
Here are some helpful resources to help you choose the best stain for your project:
- Best Deck Stain for Raleigh Homes
- Best Deck Stain Colors
- Best Stains for Pressure-treated Wood Decks
These guides break down what works best for each scenario and why.
Want Professional Deck Staining Services?
If you’re looking to refresh your deck stain, investing in professional services is a great option that can save time, money, and frustration. A trained crew knows how to assess moisture levels, prep the surface correctly, and apply stain for long-lasting results.
Our team at Oak City Coatings is knowledgeable on which products and processes work best for our humid, rainy climate.
Contact us today to book a free deck staining estimate and let our team handle the project from start to finish for you!
