A friend and I were talking about our summertime activities. We each rattled off a list of some of the fun things our families have done in the past couple months: evenings by the fire with friends, activities with our grandchildren, Lemonade Art Festival. wine tastings, etc. We both enjoy plants, so naturally we migrated toward the success of our container plantings, or, in my friend’s case, some not-doing-so-well containers on her deck.
She had mentioned that one of the items on her “spring time” list was to re-stain her deck, and she felt it was too late to do it now. Some of us would probably choose to do it in the spring. It would then be in good condition for summertime entertaining, before the patio or deck furniture and other entertainment items are set in place.
According to the experts, there really is no right time of year to stain a deck. The best time is when you have two things that can work together: time and weather.
Before you stain, you’ll want to make sure you have the appropriate amount of time to do the work. You may need to power wash the surface; an extra day may be required to ensure the boards are completely dry before you apply any stain. Dry wood will absorb the stain more fully which will help the stained surface hold up to nature’s elements longer. Do you have boards or spindles that need replacing? And, of course, you want to check the weather forecast. You want to apply the stain when the air and wood surface temperatures are between 50⁰ – 90⁰ F. Don’t apply stain if there is a large amount of humidity in the air or if there is rain in the forecast for the next 24-48 hours. You also want to avoid applying any stain in direct sunlight. The sun dries out stain quickly and can create uneven color.
The drying time of stains can vary. Water-based stains dry quicker; oil-based stains take longer. Always check the drying details on the label of the stain you choose.
Some other tips for you:
Selecting the Right Stain and Sealer for Your Deck: http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/outdoors/patios-and-decks/how-to-stain-a-deck-what-you-should-know
The Easiest Ways to Stain Deck Railings: http://homeguides.sfgate.com/easiest-ways-stain-deck-railings-98848.html
If you are considering selling your home next spring, you may want to use some of the beautiful days yet to come this fall to tackle this project. Remember, all you need is the time and right weather conditions. These same principles apply if you are considering painting your home’s siding.
If you or anyone you know is looking to buy or sell their home this fall, please let me know. I’d appreciate your referral! I am always eager to be of service.
Next month’s blog: Is It Time to Think About Fall Clean-up Already?
Berni Halaas, REALTOR®
New Century Real Estate and
Interiors by Berni
“Going Above and Beyond to Make YOUR DREAMS Come True”
