Do you have to wait a year to stain wood?

Do you have to wait a year to stain wood?

Some stain manufacturers suggest you should wait 3-12 months to let the wood dry while others say to stain the deck right away. The answer can be both just as long as you prep the new wood properly for an application of the stain.

What time of year is best to stain a deck?

The best time to stain your deck is either the spring or the fall. 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.

How long does a deck have to dry before you can stain it?

Always make sure the deck is clean and dry before you begin staining. Wait at least 24 hours after washing your deck to apply stain. Also, try to avoid staining your deck right before it rains. Most stains require at least 2-3 hours for drying.

What happens if you stain your deck and it rains?

Splotchy Appearance If it rains within 48 hours after you apply the stain, the water will soak into the wood pores and try to displace the stain. This will result in a splotchy surface rather than an even tone. If it rains right after you apply the stain, the stain will peel and flake off.

What temperature should it be to stain a deck?

Helpful Stain Application Tips Apply stain only at the proper temperature. For most stains, 70 degrees Fahrenheit is the optimum, with the safety range from 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

What happens if I don’t stain my deck?

However, choosing not to stain or paint the deck is simply a preference of the homeowner. The effects that can occur due to a lack of treatment are aesthetic in nature. After 6 months, the wood will start to lose its color and will begin to fade. Ultimately it will fade to grey or silver.

Can you stain a deck if it rains the next day?

It is best to never stain any exterior wood when inclement weather is forecasted, especially rain. Most deck stain brands will warn against the application of their product within 12-24 hours of rain being forecast. Some stains can handle rain shortly after being applied better than others.

How do I know if my deck is dry enough to stain?

3. Another way of checking if your wood is ready for stain is to pour a little water on the wood. If the water beads up, the lumber still too wet to be stained or painted. If the water is absorbed into the wood easily, it’s ready to be sealed or stained.

Why is my deck sticky after staining?

“A sticky or tacky deck is usually due to over-application or failing to wipe the excess stain from the surface of the wood. Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose and spray nozzle, and let the wood dry. This removes any tackiness or residue.”

How long does it take for a wood deck to dry after rain?

24 to 48 hours
When it just rained on the deck Before staining a deck, it is best to allow the wood to air dry for at least 24 to 48 hours. This is because rainwater has the same effect on the stain as new wood. When it rains, the rainwater seeps into the pores inside the wood.

What is too cold to stain a deck?

Avoid the Cold If it drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit before the stain has thoroughly dried, it can hinder the curing process. Penetrating stains may fail to penetrate, and the stain’s adhesion could be compromised.