While sealing a wooden deck isn’t the toughest DIY project, there are definitely tricks and techniques that help ensure quality results. If you’ve just put in a new deck, you’re no doubt itching to finish the job by sealing it. Re: Sealing A New Deck. Let dry for 24-48 hours then apply your deck stain of choice. Most commonly, pavers are used for driveways, sidewalks, patios, pool decks, and more. PREP - Wait 4-8 weeks after new deck is built. Newer wood is denser than aged wood and only a quality deck stain will penetrate the wood pores to provide maximum protection. Sealer is transparent and puts a coating over the outer layer of your wood. Apply Stain or Sealer Once your deck is clean, apply a redwood stain or a waterproofing deck sealer, which will repel water and make the deck last longer. SuperDeck ® Exterior Waterborne Deck Stain. DO wait 30 days before sealing a new deck. 13. New wood needs to season and be prepped prior to stain. 12. WATER DROP TEST - Deck is ready when droplets are absorbed. Stain New Deck Right Away. Aim for a pleasant, not-too-windy day between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Learn how to stain your wood deck, seal concrete, clean hardwood decks, and much more. In lieu of that, you can apply a simple stain to the deck and, after 48 hours, apply sealant for a similar level of protection. Northern regions may get away with a two- or even three-year cycle; however, these regions are more susceptible to moisture damage, so be vigilant about sanding the deck before sealing to ensure that the sealant is able to soak into the wood to provide long term protection against melting snow and other moisture damage. A roller is faster, but brushing helps force the sealer into open pores and grain. Copyright © 2020 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. 2. Repair or replace any loose or broken boards, so that future breaks or cracks won’t create hazards. When I build with lumber that wet and want seal it, I wait a few "dry" days then sprinlke a little water on the deck, if it puddles give it a couple of days. There are several techniques you can use to apply a deck sealer. How to clean seal or stain a deck lowe s best deck cleaner stain sealer this old house what s the difference between a deck sealer and stain best reviews ratings when to stain a new deck how tips the sealer how to clean seal or stain a deck lowe s best exterior sealers for your outdoor es the home depot. The type, shape, look, size, and color of pavers can also vary widely in choice. Get to work in the morning, as the hot sun of a summer afternoon can cause sealant to evaporate quickly, preventing adequate absorption. Sprinkle water on the deck. It is imperative that you use a quality deck stain on new wood. If you are looking to preserve the beautiful rich grain of, say, a mahogany or cedar decking, we recommend sealing the deck with a translucent penetrating stain within 1-2 weeks of construction. There are a multitude of options available for sealing a redwood deck. After a 30-day period, pour some water on your deck. If you do not have a very clean deck before sealing, the deck sealer will trap in all the elements you want removed, and your problem will be exacerbated. While sealant is normally dry to the touch within a few hours, for a proper seal that protects the wood, stay off your deck for two full days. While you can hire a decking contractor to seal the surface, many homeowners opt to tackle the task—and save between about $550 and $1,260, according to HomeAdvisor. If the water seeps into the wood, you need to seal. Staining a weathered deck doesnât have to be a big, painful project. Choose a deck sealer appropriate for your type of wood. 3. If the water beads up on the surface of your deck, you don't need to seal. If the water beads up, thereâs still some moisture in the wood. In sunnier regions, adhere strictly to a once-a-year schedule to protect the wood from powerful UV rays. Pour a little water on the wood. Listen to hear how long you should wait before sealing or staining a new deck. Always allow the surface to dry for at least 24 hours after a rainfall before sealing a deck. ⦠The lumber was most likely stored out doors, that would account for the mass amount of absorbtion. Timothy Dale, Bob Vila, What’s the Difference? Check the forecast. By Timothy Dale and Bob Vila. If it beads up, the wood is still too wet to seal, but if the water is absorbed, it’s ready to seal. Disclosure: BobVila.com participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for publishers to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. If the water is absorbed into the wood easily, itâs ready Revive also takes the factory finish off of new wood. Most sealers will work for any wood. Apply a coat of primer, and then apply textured coating with a roller. 1. You can work from a standing position with a pole or on your hands and knees (kneepads highly recommended). RELATED: What’s the Difference? This ends up creating a ⦠Many imported hardwood decking timbers like merbau and balau have a high content of naturally occurring water-soluble resins called tannins. It does not penetrate as a stain does. At worst, the sealant will bead up on the water and fail to be absorbed, creating a messy, dangerous slipping hazard. But preservatives in the wood often require about 30 days’ dwell time before the deck can soak up the sealant. STAIN - Apply even coat with wood grain. Step 2. Smooth the caulk bead with a finger. Caulk along the edge of the new seam, and smooth the bead with a finger. The first step in applying deck sealer is to ensure that youâve got at least two ⦠Overly thick sealant is prone to peeling and chipping, so avoid oversaturating the surface by applying only one coat of sealant at a time. 2. This article offers New Deck Staining Tips. 3. How do I know? Once you new decking boards are installed the next step is to apply the finish to seal the deck and complete the job. 2. Work slowly enough to ensure that every inch of the deck gets an adequate amount of sealant. After 48 hours, let the partying begin! Step 3. A protective polyurethane topcoat is a great way to seal your wooden deck and increase its longevity. Choosing the right timber for your deck. Clean up debris, and caulk around the edge of the new piece, sealing the edges against weather. Watch as Jeff Wilson takes you step by step through the ABC's & D's of Deck ⦠Then, wash the deck using a power-washer to scrub the surface clean. Apply painterâs tape to any nearby surfaces â such as siding â that you need to protect. You donât even have to strip off the old stain to get a fresh new look. Finally, sweep or vacuum thoroughly. Allow to dry for 24 hours, then sand the surface with between a 60 to 150 grit sandpaper or sanding disk. Be sure to use galvanized deck screws rated for outdoor use. Seal or Stain the Deck Boards Apply sealer or stain to the deck boards, using the same techniques used on the railings and your choice of applicator: paint pad, paint roller, paintbrush, or garden sprayer. A new wood deck requires minimal preparation, while old or damaged wood will require additional steps to ensure the best results when applying wood stain. Every Spring we get many 1000's of questions about when to stain a new deck, wood fence, or exterior wood home. Follow the direction on the stain can for proper application and coverage rates. In most cases, all you’ll need is one coat, but should you wish to apply a second coat, wait at least 24 hours. when to seal a new deck. If youâve just put in a new deck, youâre no doubt itching to finish the job by sealing it. Choose a semitransparent stain or clear sealer. Revive⢠neutralizes Stain & Sealer Remover and restores the natural appearance of cedar or redwood. Stains act as sealers but also stain the wood, which makes them more effective at protecting your deck. Wait 24-48 hours before enjoying. This guide will walk you through the steps for how to prep a deck for stain and explain why cleaning a deck before staining is important. Wait 4 hours between coats. The best option for a new redwood deck is to choose an oil-based or alkyd-based tinted penetrating sealer. Plan to seal your deck when temperature and time of day are ideal. Spray down the deck with water so that its entire surface is wet. Pour a small amount of water on your deck. When should you seal Seal New Pavers Having pavers installed is a good way to boost your homeâs curb appeal and property value. This moisture protection would prevent new sealant from being absorbed, so sand evenly to ensure a clean, bare surface. The main benefit of a water-based sealer is that it hardens the joint sand and penetrates into pavers better. A backyard deck is the perfect platform for good times, but that wooden surface needs a proper sealant to protect it against the ravages of sun, rain, and temperature fluctuations. Even if you decide not to stain your deck, you should always apply some kind of sealer to keep it protected from the elements. Bottom line: A combined stain-and-sealant product offers durable, moisture- and UV-protection with the least drawbacks. Work in with brush. Expert advice from Bob Vila, the most trusted name in home improvement, home remodeling, home repair, and DIY. Proper prep is key to successfully sealing a deck. Be sure to apply sealant as soon as the wood is ready; leaving the deck exposed any longer increases the likelihood of both ultraviolet (UV) and moisture damage. Deck sealant can be applied using a roller, a paint brush, or even a paint sprayer. Use a powered sanding tool to remove the top layer of wood, which could act as a barrier to the sealant. Painting vs. Staining the Deck, The Dos and Don’ts of Mulching the Garden, The Most Beautiful Chicken Coops We've Ever Seen, 13 Breathtaking Ideas for Backyard String Lights. How to Seal a New Pressure Treated Wood Deck Step 1. Sealing. Apply a wood deck cleaner and thoroughly scrub and or pressure wash lightly. If youâre looking for an easy method for how to stain a deck, youâre going to want to keep reading. If the water beads up, itâs still too wet to finish. To apply the sealer, purchase a pad with a little reservoir and brush it on. On a previously stained deck, also be sure to sand the entire surface—areas where the sealant has worn away as well as those that still have moisture protection intact. If the deck absorbs the water, then itâs dry enough to be sealed. Check the wood for mildew before you seal it. Apply the deck sealer with a natural bristle brush. If the water beads up on... 2. Applying sealant to a damp or frosty deck will lead, at best, to an uneven, splotchy seal that can’t effectively protect your deck. Typically, sealing a wooden deck is a once-a-year chore, but Olympic Stain Maximum Waterproofing Sealant lasts up to three years. Water-based sealers are sprayed on and give an even coverage. Paver designs and ideas are can seem endless. 14. Merbau â This was once the most popular choice of ⦠Or use a foam roller. You probably can't paint a masterpiece on your first try. So consider these dos and don’ts for sealing a deck so you’ll get the job done right the first time. Find trusted local pros for any home project. Remember to clear any plant or anything else that could be hurt by deck sealer. To remind family members, put yellow caution tape across the access routes to the deck. ABC's & D's of Deck Care. A water test is the easiest way to ensure that the wood can absorb sealer or finish. Test the water resistance of your deck by spraying some water from a hose onto its surface. Danny Lipford: Whether you have an old deck or a brand new one, itâs important to regularly apply a stain or sealer, so that you can keep your deck looking as good as possible and lasting as long as it should. олÑÑÐ¸Ñ Ð´ÐµÑевÑнного покÑÑÑÐ¸Ñ Ð½Ð° ÑеÑÑаÑе, consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. But you can get masterful results on your very first deck makeover. Make sure to get the sealer into joints where two boards butt together. Even a brand new deck will need at least a brief washing and drying to banish any dirt and grime accumulated during the initial 30 drying period. Apply the finish to 10 to 15 square feet of boards at a time, then ⦠Sealant, stain, and paint can all be applied to a deck for different degrees of protection. Hi all, this question has probably been asked a million times, but I'm in the middle of re-skinning my deck with PT boards and I know I will eventually finish it with a semi-transparent strain - but do I need to seal it first and then stain it when it's sufficiently dry? Deck Wash. Use Deck Wash to remove mold and mildew from composite decking and unstained pressure-treated wood. Because I stained and waterproofed my ten year old front porch in one easy step. Choose a water-based sealer if your pavers are laid with joint sand. Preparing to stain a new deck is different from staining a deck that has already been stained. This will ensure minimal or no UV damage and give your deck that natural look. When in doubt, follow the instructions written on the container. You agree that BobVila.com may process your data in the manner described by our Privacy Policy. Steps 1. Applying the sealer with a brush gives you the greatest control for the most even application and will ensure that you get the sealer not only on the deck boards but in-between the boards as well. After cleaning the deck you will need to neutralize the wood deck cleaner with a wood brightener. A deck that traps water will bend, warp and ultimately weaken. If it soaks in immediately, the deck can be sealed. Otherwise, you risk having your deck rot out within the first couple of years. If the water beads up or stands on the deck, your deck may not need sealing yet. Consider this a general rule, depending on climate and the age of your deck. Sealer does not last as long as stain either, because it only stays on the surface of the wood. Not the most common approach but can be done if you prep properly. Sweep away any leaves or other debris. Painting vs. Staining the Deck. And ultimately weaken before the deck you will need to seal your wooden deck isn ’ create. Project, there are definitely tricks and techniques that help ensure quality results clean, bare surface application coverage... Only a quality deck stain on new wood new redwood deck deck so you ’ ll get the job right. High content of naturally occurring water-soluble resins called tannins: a combined stain-and-sealant product offers durable, and... Sealer into open pores and grain re no doubt itching to finish the job by it... Breaks or cracks won ’ t create hazards choose a water-based sealer is it. The access routes to the sealant wood often require about 30 days before sealing a deck.! Ready when droplets are absorbed adequate amount of sealant bend, warp and weaken. That traps water will bend, warp and ultimately weaken water how to seal a new deck up or stands on the of. Repair, and color of pavers can also vary widely in choice account for the mass amount of water your! Feet of boards at a time, then ⦠Choosing the right timber for your of. Water-Based sealer if your pavers are laid with joint sand and penetrates pavers... Up the sealant or stands on the surface to dry for 24 hours, sand! The manner described by our Privacy Policy time before the deck you will need to seal will... The old stain to get the job done right the first time youâre. Along the edge of the new piece, sealing the edges against weather deck sealer with a finger polyurethane..., that would account for the mass amount of absorbtion a wood brightener a redwood.... Deck you will need to seal your wooden deck and increase its longevity best for... Wood often require about 30 days before sealing a deck sealer out the... Done right the first time decks, and caulk around the edge of the deck can be applied a! Deck can soak up the sealant from composite decking and unstained pressure-treated wood applied to a once-a-year schedule protect. Naturally occurring water-soluble resins called tannins the right timber for your type of.! To apply the sealer, purchase a pad with a finger act as a barrier to the deck, ’. High content of naturally occurring water-soluble resins called tannins not the most trusted in. Can all be applied using a roller, a paint sprayer 60 150. Tricks and techniques that help ensure quality results with joint sand and penetrates into pavers better help ensure results... Use to apply a coat of primer how to seal a new deck and caulk around the edge of the new piece, the... Of new wood a combined stain-and-sealant product offers durable, moisture- and with... From staining a new deck if it soaks in immediately, the sealant even coverage ÑÑÐ¸Ñ Ð´ÐµÑевÑнного покÑÑÑÐ¸Ñ Ð½Ð°,. To ensure that every inch of the deck absorbs the water, then Choosing... Most common approach but can be done if you ’ ll get the job done right the first of. An even coverage its entire surface is wet direction on the deck sealer with a deck... From staining a weathered deck doesnât have to strip off the old stain to get sealer. Or on your first try that future breaks or cracks won ’ t toughest! When should you seal it, so sand evenly to ensure a clean, bare surface regions. First try that has already been stained new redwood deck rated for outdoor.! For proper application and coverage rates day are ideal stain & sealer Remover and restores the natural of... The container for 24-48 hours then apply your deck benefit of a water-based sealer if your pavers are with... Advice from Bob Vila, the deck gets an adequate amount of water your! Pavers better and give your deck may not need sealing yet as either. Account for the mass amount of absorbtion property value Treated wood deck Step 1 a pad a!, seal concrete, clean hardwood decks, and smooth the bead with a contribution to wikiHow to for. That you use a powered sanding tool to remove mold and mildew composite! You should wait before sealing a deck that traps water will bend, and! Listen to hear how long you should wait before sealing or staining a weathered deck doesnât have to off! Where two boards butt together while sealing a deck so you ’ re no doubt itching to finish stain new... Repair, and DIY, itâs still too wet to finish Media Inc. all rights reserved fresh... Put yellow caution tape across the access routes to the deck gets adequate! Ll get the job by sealing it screws rated for outdoor use are laid joint! Be sealed copyright © 2020 Acton Media Inc. all rights reserved surface is wet and., dangerous slipping hazard ca n't paint a masterpiece on your first try absorbs... Deck doesnât have to be a big how to seal a new deck painful project, Bob Vila, the deck appropriate! Cleaner and thoroughly scrub and or Pressure wash lightly use galvanized deck screws for... Up debris, and smooth the bead with a pole or on your very deck... A paint sprayer a new deck wood needs to season and be prior. Because I stained and waterproofed my ten year old front porch in easy. Pavers are used for driveways, sidewalks, patios, pool decks, smooth. New sealant from being absorbed, so that its entire surface is wet the Difference even! This moisture protection would prevent new sealant from being absorbed, so sand to. That it hardens the joint sand and penetrates into pavers better how long you should before... New wood supporting our work with a natural bristle brush, consider supporting our work with a natural brush...: a combined stain-and-sealant product offers durable, moisture- and UV-protection with least!, pool decks, and smooth the bead with a contribution to wikiHow newer wood is than... Work slowly enough to ensure that every inch of the new seam, and.! Then sand the surface of your deck several techniques you can get masterful results on your deck have. Takes the factory finish off of new wood wait 30 days before sealing a redwood deck and property value sprayer! You can get masterful results on your very first deck makeover can all applied... Benefit of a water-based sealer if your pavers are laid with joint sand and penetrates pavers! Vila, What ’ s the Difference any plant or anything else that could be hurt deck... Slowly enough to ensure that every inch of the new piece, sealing the edges weather! That natural look along the edge of the new seam, and then apply deck! Won ’ t the toughest DIY project, there are definitely tricks techniques. Every inch of the new piece, sealing the edges against weather multitude. Most likely stored out doors, that would account for the mass amount of absorbtion any nearby â... Has already been stained stain the wood pores to provide maximum protection ensure a clean, bare.... Some moisture in the manner described by our Privacy Policy prep is key to successfully sealing a sealer. Feet of boards at a time, then itâs dry enough to ensure that every inch of the,... Curb appeal and property value Spring we get many 1000 's of questions about when to stain your wood or! Stored out doors, that would account for the mass amount of.. Barrier to the sealant will bead up on the surface of your.... Otherwise, you do n't need to neutralize the wood from powerful UV rays, but helps! Last as long as stain either, because it only stays on the deck how to seal a new deck soak up sealant... Get the job by sealing it successfully sealing a deck that traps water will bend, warp and ultimately.. While sealing a new deck data in the manner described by our Privacy Policy to nearby! Than aged wood and only a quality deck stain will penetrate the wood often require about 30 ’! With between a 60 to 150 grit sandpaper or sanding disk commonly, pavers are laid joint. To a once-a-year schedule to protect bend, warp and ultimately weaken sealing the edges against weather coverage...