How to Re-Stain a Deck

Steps for Restaining a Deck:

1. Clean all debris off the deck with a leaf blower.
2. Start by sanding the edges of the deck with 40-grit sandpaper.
3. Switch to the floor sander to sand the rest of the deck, again using the 40-grit sandpaper.
4. Repeat this process with the 60- and 80-grit sandpaper.
5. Pour the penetrating oil into a bucket. Apply the oil around the edges of the deck using a paintbrush.
6. Pour some of the penetrating oil into the paint tray. Using the lamb’s wool applicator, apply the stain to the rest of the deck using long strokes. Apply a generous coat but make sure it gets spread well.
7. Allow the first coat to dry and then apply a second coat after 24 hours.
8. The following year after applying a new stain, clean off the deck and apply another coat of the stain to the deck.
9. Reapply the stain to the deck every two years to maintain its finish.

Resources:

To properly re-stain a deck, Mauro explains that the surface needs to be completely sanded down before accepting new stain. To make the job easier, Mauro suggests renting a floor sander from a home center for the day. They will provide you with the correct sandpaper and a set of instructions to ensure you have everything you need to properly sand down the deck.

For the stain, Mauro applied a transparent penetrating wood oil in a natural finish manufactured by PPG. This stain can be found at most home centers.

The other tools Mauro used to apply the stain, including the paintbrushes, extension pole and the lamb’s wool applicator pad, can also be found at home centers.

Expert assistance with this segment was provided by Mauro’s Painting.

Shop Wood Stain at The Home Depot

Shopping List:

40/60/80 grit sandpaper
Penetrating wood oil
Lamb’s wool applicator
Paint tray

(Available via The Home Depot)

Tools and Materials