Deck Staining, Sealing & Painting

You have several options for protecting your wood deck, and each has different benefits:

• Clear sealers: These protect the wood without changing its color. The wood will naturally gray over time, giving it a weathered look while staying protected from moisture
• Semi-transparent stains: These add color while letting the wood grain show through. They offer UV protection and come in various tones from light honey to deep walnut
• Solid stains: These provide more color coverage and hide the wood grain, similar to paint but with better penetration. They offer excellent UV protection and hide older, weathered wood well
• Deck paint: This creates a solid, opaque finish in any color you want. It provides maximum protection but completely hides the wood grain. Best for older decks or when you want a specific color match

Most homeowners in Waco choose semi-transparent stains because they enhance the natural beauty of the wood while providing strong protection. We'll help you select the right product based on your deck's age, wood type, sun exposure, and the look you want to achieve.

The key to a long-lasting finish is proper preparation. We never cut corners on prep work because it makes all the difference in how well the stain or sealer performs. Here's what our process looks like for every deck finishing project in Waco:

First, we thoroughly clean your deck to remove dirt, mildew, and old finish. For older decks, this usually means pressure washing followed by a deck cleaner or brightener. We let the wood dry completely, which typically takes two to three days depending on weather conditions. Applying stain to damp wood is a common mistake that leads to poor results and peeling.

Next, we sand any rough spots, splinters, or areas where the old finish is peeling. We also check for loose boards or nails and make any necessary repairs before applying the new finish. If you need structural work, we can handle deck repairs and restoration before the finishing work begins.

Finally, we apply the stain or sealer using professional equipment. We typically use a combination of spraying and back-brushing to ensure even coverage and proper penetration into the wood grain. We apply at least two coats for maximum protection, allowing proper drying time between coats. We also protect your landscaping, siding, and other surfaces from overspray.

The frequency depends on several factors including the product used, sun exposure, and how much traffic your deck gets. Here's what we typically recommend:

Clear sealers usually need reapplication every one to two years because they don't have the UV blockers that stains contain. Semi-transparent stains typically last two to three years in full sun areas and up to four years in shaded spots. Solid stains can go three to five years, and quality deck paint might last five to seven years with good maintenance.

You'll know it's time for a new coat when water stops beading up on the surface or when the color starts looking faded and worn. Don't wait until the wood is completely bare. It's much easier and more effective to apply a maintenance coat before all the old finish has worn away.

We offer ongoing maintenance services to keep your deck protected year after year. Many customers schedule regular cleanings and restaining with us so they never have to worry about it. This approach prevents major wood damage and keeps the deck looking fresh continuously.