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The second phase is preparing the
deck surface for staining. The final phase is actually applying the deck stain.
In this article I will focus on phase one – selecting the right deck stain.
Selecting the
right Deck Stain Type
If your deck has never been stained,
sealed or painted you have more options to choose from when it comes to
selecting a deck stain.
When picking out a deck stain type,
you will first want to decide if you want to use a clear, solid or
semi-transparent stain (alkyd stain).
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Clear Stain / Deck
Water Sealer
A clear stain will allow the grain
colors to show through the stain. Clear stains are also referred to as deck
water sealers and only contain wood preservatives and water repellant. Most
clear deck sealers typically have no pigment or oils in them. Typically clear
stains have to be reapplied every year or two. Some clear deck sealer stains do
however have some oil in them that penetrates the wood and helps to protect the
wood longer.
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Solid Stains
Types
A solid stain actually sits on top of
the deck surface and does not permeate the deck wood. Consequently solid stains,
like paint, are not good for decks. Solid stains will quickly show signs of
wear, including chipping, cracking and peeling. Solid stains are however good
for hiding discoloration patterns and can provide a uniform appearance. However,
if you choose to use a solid stain, plan on having to reapply a new coat every
year.
Opaque Stains or
Semi-Transparent Stains (alkyd stains)
An opaque stain or semi-transparent
stain provides some color tinting and will allow the wood grain to show through
the stain. These types of deck stains permeate the deck wood and thus have a
tendency to last longer and do not peel away from the deck surface. Instead they
just fade in color. Once the fading is significant you can reapply another coat.
Selecting a Deck
Stain Type on a Previously Stained or Painted Deck
If your deck has previously been
painted, water sealed or stained with a semi-transparent or solid stain then you
should use the same type of deck sealer again on the deck, unless you first want
to sand the deck down to bare wood.
If the deck had previously been
sealed with a semi-transparent stain you can change the tint of stain.
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For help on building a new Deck, see HomeAdditionPlus.com's
Deck Installation Bid Sheet.
The
Deck Installation Bid Sheet
will teach your how to hire the right deck contractor, and help to ensure that your
deck project is completed on time and budget.
How to Finance your Deck Project -
can help provide funds for your new home improvement project if financing is
required.
Additional Deck Information
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