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Clean and Stain a Deck
Read Lowe's Deck Maintenance guide for information on how to keep your deck lasting longer. Learn about testing the wood, deck cleaners and how to restain your deck.
Tools & Materials
Use this checklist when you go to the store and purchase your items.
Testing the Wood
A water test is the easiest way to ensure that the wood can absorb sealer or finish. Sprinkle water on the deck. If it soaks in immediately, the deck can be sealed. If the water beads up or stands on the deck, your deck may not need sealing yet.
When you're certain the deck needs sealer, lightly sand rough spots with a pole sander and 80-grit paper. Be sure to wear a mask so you won't inhale the sawdust.
Watch How to Wash, Stain and Seal a Wood or Composite Deck
Applying Deck Cleaner
UV rays penetrate 1/64 inches of wood, which causes graying. Apply a brightener and cleaner to restore the wood's natural beauty.
Deck cleaners help remove dirt, nail stains, algae and mildew. If your deck isn't brand-new, always use a cleaner before applying finish.
Carefully read the manufacturer's directions before using the material, and follow all safety precautions and warnings on the label. Use the water test to make sure the wood can absorb the cleaner. Wear safety goggles, a long-sleeved shirt and pants. Don't wear sandals or open-toed shoes.
Step 1
Remove all deck furniture.
Step 2
Sand splintered areas with 80-grit paper. Repair damaged boards.
Step 3
Sweep off loose debris and clean between the cracks of the boards.
Step 4
Wet surrounding plants and shrubs. Cover them with clear plastic.
Step 5
For concentrated cleaners, follow the manufacturer's mixing directions.
Step 6
Some cleaners require the surface to be damp before applying, while others require the surface to be dry. Consult the product label.
Step 7
Use a paint roller with an extension handle, a garden sprayer or a stiff-bristled push broom to apply cleaner to the entire deck. Don't allow cleaner to puddle in any area.
Step 8
Speed up the process by having one person apply the cleaner and another person back-roll the deck. Back-rolling is a process in which one person uses a roller or broom to spread any puddles.
Step 9
Keep the deck wet with cleaner. Don't allow the cleaner to dry.
Step 10
Scrub tough areas with a stiff brush or broom. Avoid using wire brushes or brooms. The bristles can break off into the wood and cause rust spots.
Step 11
Allow the cleaner to soak into the wood. Soaking time is usually no more than 10 minutes, but check the product instructions.
Step 12
Rinse the deck thoroughly with a hose.
Step 13
Wash equipment with soapy water. Rinse plastic with water and remove.
Step 14
Allow deck to dry at least two days before applying a sealer.
Step 15
Rinse the plastic covering the plants with a hose and remove it.
Choosing a Stain or Sealer
Make sure to choose a specially formulated deck stain or sealer to repel water, resist mildew and prevent fading in high traffic areas. Sealers and stains are either water-based or oil-based. Oil-based finishes require less upkeep and less frequent recoating than water-based finishes.
When choosing a stain, remember that the finished color varies based on the wood itself. If you're applying a new stain over an old one, choose a color that's similar to or darker than the original. Test the color in an inconspicuous area to ensure proper color.
Redwood and cedar contain pigments that may bleed to the surface. On these woods, use a dark color stain that makes the bleeding less noticeable. These stains require recoating every two to three years.
- Clear water repellent provides basic protection, including waterproofing, minimal UV protection and sometimes mildew growth prevention. Because of the minimal UV protection, this type of sealer allows the wood to turn gray, though without splitting, warping, cupping or cracking. Recoating is required at least once a year.
- Wood toners are similar to clear water repellant, but they include a hint of color to help maintain or restore the natural beauty of wood. They provide similar levels of protection against splitting, warping, cupping and cracking but tend to last a little longer.
- Clear wood preservative with UV protection protects your deck and prevents graying. These are often used on cedar and redwood decks to preserve the original color. Oil-based preservatives can last for up to two years.
- Semitransparent stains are subtle and show the grain and texture of wood. These stains contain pigment that protects against sun damage better than a clear preservative. Oil-based semitransparent stains provide the most protection, better color retention and longer life.
- Solid stain is available but tends to wear quickly when applied to high traffic areas. If you decide to use a solid stain, apply it to rails and benches only. If you use a solid stain on the entire deck, it will require frequent maintenance for peeling and cracking, so choose a semitransparent stain for main traffic areas. If your deck already has solid stain on it, you must either keep using a solid color or use deck stripper. Deck stripper removes clear and solid / semitransparent stains.
Applying a Stain or Sealer
When applying a sealer or stain, always read the manufacturer's directions. Drying times differ based on air temperature and humidity. Before you start, check the boards for needed repairs such as split boards or popped-up nails.
Tips:
- Wear rubber gloves, close-toed shoes, a long-sleeved shirt and pants when applying finish or cleaner to minimize the chance of skin irritation. Also, wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from back spray.
- Don't apply deck product in direct sun. The finish will dry too quickly and won't absorb into the wood.
- Use the water test to check your deck every few months to ensure the sealer is repelling water.
- Regularly sweep off debris.
Step 1
Check the weather. Try to find at least two days of dry weather with temperatures between 50°F and 90°F.
Step 2
Remove all deck furniture and plants.
Step 3
Sand all grade stamps, marks, and splintered areas. The entire deck may require sanding with a pole sander or palm sander to speed up the process. Sand in the direction of the grain. Be sure to wear a safety mask so you won't inhale the sawdust.
Step 4
Sweep off loose debris and clean between the cracks. Make sure the deck is dry.
Step 5
Cover plants and shrubs with clear plastic.
Step 6
Stir the sealer or stain thoroughly. Don't shake sealer. Bubbles will form in the finish.
Step 7
Apply a thin, even coat of sealer or stain over a two- to three-board section with a paint roller with an extension handle or a sprayer. Two thin coats are better than one thick coat that doesn't properly adhere or dry.
Don't allow the finish to puddle. To speed up the process, one person can apply the stain or sealer and another person can use a roller or broom to spread puddles and to work the finish into the wood, a process known as back-rolling.
Step 8
Repeat the above process for the entire deck. Use a paintbrush to apply the sealer / stain in corners and other difficult areas, such as steps, railings, end grain and cracks. A second coat is optional.
Step 9
Allow the deck to dry completely.
Step 10
Before disposing of rags, spread them out to dry completely. Heat generated from evaporating finish on a pile of rags can start a flash fire. If you're using latex stain, clean equipment with soapy water. If you're using oil-based sealers, clean with paint thinner or mineral spirits.
Step 11
Rinse the plastic covering the plants with a hose and remove it.
Project Information
- Skill Level: Beginner
*Time and Cost are estimated.