Stained decks and fences add both curb appeal and functionality to your home’s outdoor space. Alongside being the place where you go to relax and entertain, it’s also a place that gets exposed to all types of weather and outdoor elements. Therefore, to keep them looking their best, regular cleaning and maintenance is key. If you’re wondering how to maintain a deck after staining, read on for a simple step-by-step process to help you properly care for your newly stained deck or fence and keep it in tip-top shape for years to come.
How To Maintain a Deck or Fence After Staining
A professionally stained deck stain can last for years to come, but only if it is cared for and maintained properly. If you’re looking for more tips and information on restaining a deck, check out this blog post. We also have a great resource to help you choose the best stain for your deck.
Establish a Regular Cleaning Routine
The most important and simplest way to maintain a deck stain or fence is to establish a regular cleaning routine.
Weekly Maintenance
On a weekly basis, blow or sweep off leaves, dirt, pollen, and any other debris that has settled on the surface. This is especially important in the spring and fall after high levels of pollen and leaves find their way to your deck or fence.
Pollen and leaves are both organic matter, and organic matter molds. Leaves especially can hold moisture if left on your deck for a prolonged period of time, which can lead to mold and mildew. While weekly sweeping may seem like a small task, it’s a key step to keeping this organic matter off of your deck or fence and reducing the risk of molding and damaging the wood.
Yearly Maintenance
At least once a year, aim to give your stained deck or fence a deep clean using a mild wood deck cleaner designed to work with your specific stain product and a soft-bristled brush.
Do NOT go straight for the pressure washer, as this can damage your stain and wood.
Instead, opt for a bucket of water or a gentle wash from the hose.
Make Repairs Before Reapplying Stain
While you’re cleaning your deck or fence, be sure to look for imperfections or damages that need repaired. You’ll want to make any necessary repairs before reapplying the stain. Look for loose boards, cracks, water damage, or splinters before staining. Making these repairs is crucial for the longevity of your wood, but it is also key for achieving a smooth application process when you reapply the stain.
Determine When To Reapply Stain Using the Water Test
Depending on how much sun and outdoor elements your deck or fence gets exposed to throughout the year, you may need to reapply more stain every few years to keep it looking fresh and vibrant.
A quick and easy way to determine if it’s time to reapply stain is to perform a simple water test. This will help you determine if the wood on your deck or fence will absorb additional stain.
To do this, drop some water on the deck boards, railings, etc, from a cup. If the water beads, stain will too, which means there’s no immediate need for you to reapply stain.
If the water starts soaking into the boards right away, stain will too. This is your sign that it’s time to add more stain to your deck or fence.
Reapply Stain
When reapplying stain, make sure to follow the application instructions on the product label. For semi transparent stains, you’ll want to apply to rejection and remove any excess stain. Allow the wood to fully absorb the stain, but do not leave behind puddles of stain. This will cause a sticky surface and possible peeling.
Keep in mind that you will not use as much stain when reapplying as when you stained your deck the first time. You’ll likely use about half as much.
Overall, cleaning and maintaining a stained deck or fence is a straightforward, yet essential task for homeowners. By implementing a regular cleaning routine, making necessary repairs, and reapplying stain as needed, you can ensure your deck or fence looks bright and welcoming for years to come.
If you’re looking to partner with a professional painting company to help you prep and stain your deck, as well as give you recommendations for the highest quality stains and cleaners, visit our contact page to book your free consultation with our team today!
