Did you know that a high quality wood deck stain can significantly extend the life of your deck? There’s one common mistake that most homeowner (and painters) make when staining new decks. Keep reading to find out!
With the right treatment, like Prolux SRD RE, you can ensure your deck not only looks stunning but also withstands the test of time. This product review vlog dives into the benefits of staining a wood deck and how to achieve that beautiful finish you’ve always wanted.
Table of Contents
- Why Choose Prolux SRD RE for Your Wood Deck?
- Preparation is Key: Getting Your Deck Ready
- Staining Process: Step by Step
- Tools of the Trade for an Easy Application
- Safety Tips: Handling Stains Properly
- Wood Stain Product Types and Application Data
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choose Prolux SRD RE As Your Wood Deck Stain?
Here’s the scoop: I like Prolux SRD RE is a one-coat, oil-based stain that makes staining cedar wood a breeze. It’s perfect for both new and previously stained wood decks, saving you time and effort.
Plus, it comes in a variety of colors, including natural, light teak, and mahogany, to match your style.
This wood deck in the picture below, was newly built and the homeowners wanted it treated prior to having the family and dogs ruin the wood finish. And they knew that it’s easier to clean wood if it’s been treated with a protective wood deck stain product.
Preparation is Key: Getting Your Deck Ready
Before diving into the wood deck staining process, proper preparation is essential. Especially for exterior painting projects like this – where heavy foot traffic wear and tear has already been evident.
I started this project by soaking the deck with water first, and followed up with an environmentally friendly cleaner to help remove the dirt.
I then agitated the wet soapy water with a stiff bristle brush for a few minutes. Then I fired up the power washer and lightly rinsed the deck to remove all the dirt and debris.
Yes, you can use a power washer (or as some call it – “soft washing”) to clean most surfaces. However, you can also do serious damage if you don’t know how to use the tool.
So before you blast up your handy-dandy power washer and get to work, always test your washing process on a scrap board or concrete area on your driveway.
In this case, I turned the PSI to below 1500 and made sure I gently washed away all the soap residue.
I waited a few days with nice dry weather and then followed up by testing the moisture content of the wood; it should be between 12-15%. If your wood moisture content is within that range, you’re good to go!
Now that the wood is perfectly dry and ready for a wood deck stain finish, it was time to sand it down with an 80-grit palm sander to ensure a smooth finish.
(Health Tip: I recommend wearing a dust mask while sanding the wood.)
After the sanding is complete, you’ll want to thoroughly sweep away all wood shavings and debris. For extra points, I recommend using a blower and/or a vacuum to make sure the wood deck is spotless!
Deck Staining Process: Step by Step
Now, let’s get to the fun part of coating your wood deck!
First, I highly recommend wearing protective work gloves. This wood deck stain product is oil based so it sticks to your hands and clothes. (You need mineral spirits (aka paint thinner) for any cleanup.
Also, this stuff is pretty stinky – so if you’re not in a well ventilated area, you might want to consider wearing a mask or respirator.
I began by staining the edges of the deck first, using a cut card to protect the areas I don’t want to stain. Think of this like putting together a puzzle – starting with your boarders.
You can use a sheet of cardboard or any hard, thin plastic board. This way, any accidental spills won’t ruin concrete or walkways.
Then, tackle the deck board by board, maintaining a wet edge to ensure even coverage.
I started by gooshing my brush in between the cracks of two boards (applying a healthy amount of stain to both sides of the boards) and then worked the top flat edge of each board in unison from end to end.
Remember, always apply the stain in the direction of the wood grain and always compete the whole length of the board before moving onto the next board.
You want to work with a “wet edge” when applying a wood deck stain product like Prolux SRD RE.
Tools of the Trade for an Easy Application
For the best results, you’ll need a few trusty tools:
- Stain Brush: Whenever I stain decks like this, I usually end up destroying the paint brush. Therefore I usually use an older brush that has had its time. And because this Prolux SRD RE wood deck stain is an oil based stain, I also am not likely going to clean this brush once Im done. However, if you wan to reuse a brush with oil based coatings, you need to use mineral spirits or paint thinner.
- Whiz Roller: Aka – a “Johny Roller” because it’s Johny on the spot! I like to use whiz rollers on applications like this because it’s generally a faster application method. Now keep in mind, I always back brush when using a wood deck stain, and the roller is only meant for the application of the wood deck stain product. You don’t have to use a whiz roller, however it helps speed up the painting process in certain situations.
- Dust Broom / Blower: As mentioned before, you need to sweep all the debris off the deck before you can apply the wood deck stain product.
- Paint Thinner: Remember to wear gloves when handling paint thinner.
- A Rag: This is a painters best friend. Always keep a few clean rags near by in case of small drips or spills.
Safety Tips: Handling Stains Properly
This parts very important. After you finish staining with any oil based stain product, make sure to put all soiled wet rags in a bucket of water.
DO NOT BUNCH UP THE RAGS AND THROW THEM IN THE GARBAGE… unless you want the rags to self combust and burn down your home like this homeowner! (DIY Homeowner)
The soiled rags were thrown into a garbage which was stored in the garage – which self combusted over night.
The house was saved, however, the smoke crept throughout the house damaging all the ceilings and walls. Good thing the house was being renovated and no one was occupying the home at the time.
These rags can self-combust if left bundled up, posing a huge fire hazard. Always work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
Wood Stain Product Types and Application Data
| Product Type | Coats Required | Optimal Application Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Prolux SRD RE | 1 Coat | 50°F – 95°F |
| Oil-based Stains | 1-2 Coats | 50°F – 90°F |
| Water-based Stains | 2 Coats | 50°F – 80°F |
$5000 Tip: Common Mistake Staining New Decks
Ahh yes, the part you’ve been waiting for…..
The most common mistake homeowners make when building new wood decks, is waiting until the deck is totally built to stain the wood.
This is problematic because you’re only coating / treating to top sides of the wood.
To get the best and the longest lasting protection of your wood deck it’s best to stain all 6 sides of EVERY board prior to installation. If you need to apply a 2nd coat, you can do it to the top visible edges that will take the wear and tear.
The reason leaving the underside wood untreated this is problematic is because when it rains and water finds itself at the lowest point – under the deck, the water has to eventually evaporate.
And this evaporation process can penetrate into the untreated underside of the wood and get sucked through the wood, coming through whatever coating is on top, mainly caused by the heat from the sun.
This leads to premature paint (or stain) failure. This is why most decks don’t hold stain or paint very well. It’s because the underside boards were never treated.
And remember that unprimed or untreated wood that gets a lot of water exposure can also lead to premature wood rot – which is NOT what you want if you just paid very good money for a beautiful new wood deck.
So keep this $5000 ‘new back deck’ tip in mind. Make sure to arrange the carpenters (or painters) to stain all 6 sides of each board prior to installing the deck or stairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to clean my deck before staining?
A combination of hand washing (with a scrub brush) and power washing is the most effective method to clean your deck. Every deck is different however, power washing is a common method. Make sure to let it dry completely before applying any stain.
Can I apply Prolux SRD RE on previously stained wood?
Yes, you can! Just ensure that the previous stain is removed or sanded down really good for the best results. This wood deck stain is a very good economical choice.
How long does Prolux SRD RE last?
With proper application and maintenance, you can expect it to last several years, depending on weather conditions, traffic on your deck, good airflow around the deck and regular cleaning.
Where can I buy Prolux SRD RE?
You can find it in most retail paint stores or online and at Dulux Paint store.
Who can I contact for more information?
If you have any questions about this product, feel free to reach out to me (Paul) at Trusted House Painter at 1-866-PAINT-18 or visit our free app and website to find local painters near you.
Now that you’re armed with all this knowledge about the best deck wood stain, it’s time to transform your deck into a beautiful outdoor oasis! Remember, the right wood deck stain can make a world of difference. Happy staining!
For more tips on painting and maintaining your home, check out these helpful links:
