There are many reasons to choose redwood for your new deck, from its durability to its natural beauty. But over time, that beautiful red hue can fade. That’s why it’s important to stain your new redwood deck every year or so in order to keep it looking as vibrant as the day it was finished. Read on to learn more about the benefits of staining your redwood deck and how to go about the process safely and effectively.
What is the best stain for redwood?
There are many different types of redwood decking and composite decking on the market. When selecting a stain for your new redwood deck, keep in mind that regular oil stains do not provide as much protection from rain and moisture as semi-transparent waterborne stains, such as those containing alkyd resin. It’s best to wait at least two months after installation before applying a coat of stain so that any moisture trapped between wood fibers can dry out.
If you have already waited several weeks and it’s time to apply a finish, try using an acrylic sealer first. This will help prevent color bleeding if you decide to use an oil stain later. Acrylic sealers also provide better UV protection than oils, which is important since UV rays break down unprotected wood over time. After sealing with an acrylic sealer, you can apply one or two coats of your favorite semi-transparent waterborne komposittrall polen stain (check with local building codes for recommended products). If possible, choose a brand that contains UV inhibitors—this will help protect against sun damage during extended periods when your deck is exposed to sunlight (for example during summertime).
Staining Tips
Before staining, you should sweep any debris from your deck and clean it with a power washer. For new wood, wait about three months for its natural oils to dry; protect composite decks by applying a protective coating after installation. To give a worn deck a fresh look and prevent splintering and cracking, scrape off loose layers of old stain using either a steel wool pad or sandpaper, then prime and apply two coats of stain. To minimize lap marks (uneven color), overlap each stroke by at least one-third.
After letting the stain dry overnight, apply an oil-based polyurethane finish in a few thin coats to seal in color and keep moisture out. For more info on how to stain a redwood deck, check out our guide: How to Stain Wood Decks: A Step-by-Step Guide Stain Tips: Using stains is an inexpensive way to add rich color without painting—and is much easier than stripping paint from your siding. But no matter what type of siding you have—vinyl, brick, or stone—it’s important that you prep it properly before applying any product that contains chemicals.
How often do I need to re-stain my redwood deck?
The easiest way to know when you need to re-stain your wood deck is if it looks faded, or starts to lose its color. Other things that cause redwood decks to lose their color include weather (salt and ozone in particular), pet urine, and pet dander. For composite decking, stains can last up to 7 years with proper maintenance. For wood decking, we recommend using a semi-transparent stain every year or two for optimal protection. If you want more help with how often you should re-stain your redwood deck
Common mistakes when staining your new redwood deck
Before you decide to finish your new redwood deck, there are several factors you must consider. One of these factors is what kind of wood your deck is made from (common options include cedar, redwood, treated lumber, and composite boards). The color of your new wood will greatly depend on its type. It’s important to choose a stain that matches not only your tastes but also the quality of the wood you want to protect.
For example, if you have cedar planks for your deck, it may be best to use an oil-based sealer rather than a water-based one. Plus, they tend to hold up better over time as well. If you have composite boards for your deck, it’s best to use a water-based stain because oil-based ones can make them look like plastic or vinyl instead of real wood! If you plan on staining your new redwood deck soon, remember these tips so that your investment lasts as long as possible!
