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How To Stain A New Deck Yourself - DIY

Follow these easy steps to stain your deck yourself to save time and money!
Prep Time2 days
Active Time1 day
Total Time4 days
Keyword: deck, diy, how to
Cost: $200

Equipment

  • Paintbrush Roller with Long Handle
  • Large Paint Tray
  • Angled Paint Brush
  • Small Paint Tray
  • Small Craft Brush
  • Wood Putty
  • Putty Knife
  • Paint Edger
  • Large Foam Brush

Instructions

Deck Prep

  • Prepare the deck for stain. Fill any wood holes with wood putty and use the knife to smooth out. Once dry use high grit sandpaper to smooth surface.
  • Use deck cleaner to clean the surface of the deck and a wire brush to scrub the cleaner into the wood. Rinse and let dry a full 48 hours before staining.

Deck Staining

  • Tape off all feet of the posts and top rail with painters tape.
  • Apply white paint to all spindles, posts, and stair backs using the small paint tray and angled brush and edger.
  • Once first coat is dry paint a second coat if needed.
  • Stain between the base deck boards using the large foam brush. Roll the brush over all nail heads to cover them and roll the brush over the top of the wood to make sure no drips dry on the surface.
  • Use the angled paintbrush to cut in the gray color along the sides of the house and places that can't be reached with the roller.
  • Use paint roller with long handle to stain the base of the deck. Put on one full layer, let dry, then put on second layer.
  • Let deck dry for at least 24 hours before walking on it.
  • Use a small craft brush and paint edger for any hard to get spots and touch ups and you're done!