Staining your dock or desk is a great way to protect the wood from weathering and give it a fresh look.
7 Steps to Stain Your Dock or Deck The Right Way
Published: May 12, 2022
Staining your dock or deck is a great way to protect the wood from weathering and give it a fresh look. Here's a general process for staining a dock or deck in Florida:
- Clean the dock or deck: Before staining, the dock and deck need cleaning to remove any dirt, grime, or mildew. You can use a deck cleaner or a mixture of water and mild detergent to clean the deck. Scrub all surfaces thoroughly and rinse off any cleaning solution with a garden hose.
- Allow the dock deck to dry: After cleaning, allow the dock deck to dry completely. Drying the wood can take several days, depending on the weather. Be sure to wait until the dock and deck are completely dry before staining.
- Sand the dock and deck: Before staining, lightly sand the deck's surface to remove any rough or weathered spots. Use fine-grit sandpaper and go over the entire surface. After sanding, wipe the deck down with a dry cloth to remove any sawdust.
- Apply the stain: Once the deck is dry, clean, and sanded, it is ready to be stained. You can use a brush, roller, or stain pad to apply the stain. Start at one end of the deck and work your way to the other end. Make sure to work the stain into the wood, and avoid applying too much in one spot. It's best to work in small areas and do one board at a time.
- Allow the stain to dry: Once the deck is stained, allow the stain to dry completely before using the deck. It can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day, depending on the weather and the type of stain used. Read the label on the stain for specific drying time.
- Apply another coat of stain (Optional): If you want a deeper or richer color, apply a second coat of stain after the first coat has dried.
- As a final step, after the stain is dry, you can apply a clear coat to protect the deck and make it look more durable.
Make sure to read the manufacturer's instructions on the type of stain you are using and the recommended application method. Also, pay attention to weather conditions. If it's too hot or humid, there may be better times to stain your deck.
If you have dock, deck, or fence project and live in Sarasota or Venice, Florida, and would like a free quote, call Gulf Coast Stain and Seal Co. at 941-702-1526.
