Deck Staining, Sealing & Painting

Why Staining and Sealing Matters

If you have a wood deck, staining and sealing is not optional. It is essential. Without proper protection, wood decks deteriorate quickly, especially here in Florida. The sun beats down all day, causing the wood to dry out and crack. Then the rain comes, and moisture seeps into the cracks, leading to rot and mold. At BlueCrest Poinciana Decks, we help homeowners protect their investment with professional staining and sealing services.

Stain and sealant create a protective barrier that keeps moisture out and blocks harmful UV rays. This prevents the wood from warping, cracking, and rotting. It also keeps your deck looking good. Unstained wood turns gray and weathered over time, but a fresh coat of stain brings back the rich, natural color. Sealing the wood after staining locks in the color and adds an extra layer of protection.

Regular staining and sealing also makes your deck last longer. A well-maintained wood deck can last 20 years or more, while a neglected deck might only last 10 years. By investing in regular maintenance, you save money in the long run. You also avoid the hassle and expense of replacing boards or rebuilding your entire deck.

We recommend staining and sealing your deck every two to three years. The exact timing depends on how much sun and rain your deck gets, what type of wood it is made from, and what products you use. If you are not sure when your deck was last stained, look at the surface. If the wood looks dry, gray, or faded, it is time for a refresh.

Our Staining and Sealing Process

Staining and sealing a deck is more than just slapping on a coat of stain. It requires proper preparation and the right techniques to get professional results. We take the time to do it right, so your deck looks great and stays protected.

Step 1: Cleaning

We start by cleaning your deck thoroughly. We use a pressure washer to remove dirt, mildew, and old stain. This step is critical because stain will not adhere properly to a dirty surface. We also use a deck cleaner to open up the wood pores and prepare the surface for staining.

Step 2: Repairs

Before we stain, we inspect your deck for damage. If we find any cracked boards, loose fasteners, or other issues, we fix them first. This ensures your deck is in good shape before we apply the new finish. If your deck needs more extensive repairs, we offer deck repair services as well.

Step 3: Sanding

If your deck has splinters or rough spots, we sand them smooth. This makes your deck more comfortable to walk on and helps the stain go on evenly. Sanding also removes any remaining old finish and gives the stain a clean surface to bond to.

Step 4: Staining

Once your deck is clean and dry, we apply the stain. We use high-quality products that penetrate deep into the wood for long-lasting protection. We can apply stain with a brush, roller, or sprayer, depending on the size and condition of your deck. We make sure to get stain into all the cracks and crevices, not just the flat surfaces.

Step 5: Sealing

After the stain dries, we apply a clear sealant. This adds an extra layer of protection and makes your deck water-resistant. The sealant also makes it easier to clean your deck in the future. Dirt and spills sit on the surface instead of soaking into the wood.

Choosing the Right Stain

There are many types of deck stain available, and choosing the right one makes a big difference. The main decision is between transparent, semi-transparent, and solid stains. Each type offers different levels of protection and visibility of the wood grain.

Transparent Stain

Transparent stain allows the natural grain and color of the wood to show through. It offers the least amount of protection but gives you the most natural look. Transparent stain is a good choice for new decks or premium woods like cedar and redwood. It typically needs to be reapplied every one to two years.

Semi-Transparent Stain

Semi-transparent stain is the most popular choice. It adds color while still allowing the wood grain to show through. It offers better UV and moisture protection than transparent stain. Semi-transparent stain lasts two to three years before it needs to be reapplied. This is what we recommend for most decks in Poinciana.

Solid Stain

Solid stain provides the most protection and coverage. It hides the wood grain completely and looks similar to paint. Solid stain is a good choice for older decks with weathered or mismatched boards. It lasts three to five years and offers excellent UV and moisture protection. The downside is that you lose the natural wood look.

Oil-Based vs Water-Based

Stains also come in oil-based and water-based formulas. Oil-based stains penetrate deeper and last longer, but they take longer to dry and have a stronger odor. Water-based stains dry faster and are easier to clean up, but they may not last as long. We can help you choose the right formula for your deck and your preferences.

Deck Painting

While we usually recommend staining wood decks, painting is another option. Paint provides a solid, opaque finish that completely covers the wood. It comes in unlimited colors, so you can match your deck to your home or create a bold statement. Paint also offers excellent protection against moisture and UV damage.

The downside of paint is that it sits on the surface of the wood rather than penetrating it. This means it can peel and chip over time, especially in high-traffic areas. Once your deck is painted, you are committed to repainting it every few years. You cannot easily go back to a natural wood look.

Paint is a good choice for older decks that have weathered surfaces or mismatched boards. It is also popular for porch floors and stairs where a solid color looks better. If you decide to paint your deck, we use high-quality exterior deck paint that is designed to withstand foot traffic and weather.

We also paint railings, stairs, and other deck features. If you want a two-tone look with painted railings and stained decking, we can do that too. For new builds, check out our wood deck installation services to start from scratch with a custom design.

Frequently Asked Questions