What is the best time of day to stain a deck?

Applying a deck stain in direct sun will cause the stain to dry to quickly and can result in premature stain failure. In the summer, stain your deck in the morning or evening so the deck surface isn't too hot. Remember, the surface temperature of the deck can be much hotter than the air temperature.

When should you not stain a deck?

You want to apply the stain when the wood surface and air are in the temperature range of 50° – 90°F. You also want to avoid the direct application of sunlight. Lastly, do not apply a stain if there is a forecast of rain in the following one to two days, or all your hard work could end up being washed away.

What temperature should it be to stain a deck?

The ideal temperature range for application is between 50 and 80 degrees. And, it is important to choose a day when no rain is expected for 24 hours.

Is it OK to stain a deck early in the morning?

Don't apply your deck stain in the direct sun; choose morning or evening hours, or a time of day when your deck has shade. Morning application can be a safer choice to help avoid any contact with dew that sets in overnight. Don't apply more stain than the wood can absorb.

What is the best time to stain your deck?

Because you want to wait for days that aren't excessively hot or humid, the best times to apply deck stains are in the late spring and early fall, when the weather is moderately warm and dry. Check the weather and find a time when it's not expected to rain for two days before and following the deck treatment.

Understanding the best time to stain a deck

Is it better to brush or roll stain on a deck?

The first and most obvious reason to roll on deck stain as opposed to brushing it on is that the former allows you to cover a much larger surface area in less time. Rollers are wider, more efficient, and easier to operate. Additionally, using a roller helps you achieve a smoother finish.

Is it OK to stain a deck in the sun?

If you stain your deck in the summer, make sure you do it out of the direct sunlight. Applying a deck stain in direct sun will cause the stain to dry to quickly and can result in premature stain failure. In the summer, stain your deck in the morning or evening so the deck surface isn't too hot.

What if it rains 3 hours after I stain my deck?

If it rains within 48 hours of applying a treatment, the water will soak into the wood, and try and displace the stain. This can cause a blotchy, flaky look, rather than a smooth, even, coat. If it rains immediately after you've stained the wood, the stain will peel and flake off.

Is 24 hours enough time for deck stain to dry?

It's safe for a water-based deck stain to be exposed to rain as long as it has fully dried, which can take one to 24 hours. However, it must cure for up to 72 hours before you can walk on it or place any furniture on it.

How long should you not walk on a deck after staining?

In most cases a full body stain or acrylic deck finish will be dry to touch within an hour in dry, hot weather. After two hours you could take a chance and walk on it with shoes, though I'd recommend barefoot. After about 4 hours you should be able to safely walk on your deck.

What size nap should I use to stain a deck?

Naps come in different lengths. A 3/16- to 1/4-inch roller cover will give smooth results on smooth surfaces. A 3/8- to 1/2-inch roller cover is best for lightly textured surfaces. When applying stain with a roller on rough surfaces, like weathered exterior wood, use 3/4-inch or thicker roller covers.

What if it rains after I stain my deck?

If it rains within 48 hours of applying a treatment, the water will soak into the wood, and try and displace the stain. This can cause a blotchy, flaky look, rather than a smooth, even, coat. If it rains immediately after you've stained the wood, the stain will peel and flake off.

Can you stain a deck on a hot day?

Avoid the Heat

If it's too hot, the stain may dry too quickly, potentially causing lap marks and uneven penetration. Avoid staining your deck if it's above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. To ensure this, either choose a cooler day or stain your deck in the morning before it gets too hot.

Can you wash and stain a deck in the same day?

You should wait at least two days after pressure washing your deck before you consider staining it, to give time for it to dry.

Is it better to stain a deck light or dark?

Darker Color Stains Will Last Longer. The more pigment in the stain formula, the more it will protect against sun damage. For example, a completely clear wood stain will provide no UV protection at all.

How long should you wait to put on a second coat of stain on a deck?

When applying the second coat of stain on the deck, wait 4 hours between applications. Depending on temperature and humidity, allow 24-48 hours of dry time before using your beautifully restored deck or porch.

How soon after staining a deck can it get wet?

Remember, no rain 24 hours before you apply stain and no rain 24 hours after the staining project. Assuming the deck is dry and thirsty for stain, it's time to make your deck amazing. When applying stain, a pad, brush, roller, or rag can be used to apply the stain.

How long should you let pressure treated wood dry before staining?

Allow the wood to dry 24 hours before applying stain.

Why can't you stain a deck right away?

This process can take many months depending on your deck's sun exposure and the weather patterns after construction is complete. Without waiting for the wood to dry, stain and sealant would not penetrate the wood properly, diminishing its ability to protect the wood from weather damage.

Can you put too much stain on a deck?

With staining, you'll know if you've over-applied your deck stain because there will be sticky patches or puddles that just aren't drying—the wood has absorbed all it can, so the remaining stain has nowhere to go.

Should you wear a mask when staining deck?

Always wear safety glasses and a mask. Open doors and windows to allow for proper ventilation. Keep children and pets away from wood stain fumes.

What is the fastest way to stain a deck?

Use a sprayer on the railings to make the job much faster. You can also use a sprayer on the deck surface if you prefer to go that route. I'd plan on two days to apply two coats, allowing the stain to dry overnight between coats.

Should you power wash a stained deck?

Your deck may not have grime on it, but the color of the stain may wear away. While you can apply a new layer of the stain without power washing, a pressure wash can help prepare the wood to absorb the stain. It will last longer afterward, and you won't have to worry about dirt getting stuck under the stain.