When was the last time you stained your deck? Maintaining your wood deck is important to ensure it remains in good condition and continues to look its best.
If you are asking — “Is it time to stain my deck?” — Try this no-cost, three-second test to see if your deck needs new stain.
Sprinkle some water on the deck’s surface. Did the water bead up?
- If yes, the stain is still providing protection. Great!
- If no, it’s time to stain. If the water soaked into the wood instead of beading up, then the wood is no longer protected from moisture by stain. (Contact us. We can help.)
Check out our list below for additional ways to assess if your deck needs a fresh coat of stain.
- Color Fade: If the color of your deck has faded significantly from when it was first stained, it’s a good indication that it needs to be stained again. The sun’s UV rays can cause the stain to fade over time.
- Peeling or Flaking: Is your stain peeling or flaking off? If so, that’s a clear sign that the deck needs to be restained. Watch for high-traffic areas or places where the stain has worn off.
- Splitting or Cracking: If you see signs that the wood is splitting or cracking, that may indicate that the wood is drying out. Apply a new stain to protect it from further damage.
- Mildew or Mold Growth: Do you see mildew, mold, or algae growth? If so, the protective stain layer has broken down and moisture is being trapped in the wood. It is time for fresh stain to avoid moisture penetration.
- Rough Surface: If the wood feels rough or splinters easily, it is time to sand and restain the deck to restore its smooth surface and protect it from the elements.
Through regular maintenance and inspection, you can ensure your deck stays in good condition for years to come!
Need help with stain for your deck? Contact us for a free estimate today.
