A deck stain needs to be able to do several things. It needs to be able to protect your wood deck from heat, abrasions, UV rays, and moisture. You also want a deck stain that will last. There are several factors that go into how long a deck stain will give you the protection you need. While the quality of the stain is important, it is not the only thing to consider when determining a stain’s longevity.

Some other things that need to go in the equation are the deck’s condition and how much water and light it is exposed to. The two main things that cause an exterior coating to fail are UV light and water. Most of the time decks are located on the sunny part of a home and will be exposed to the sun for several hours each day.

When it comes to sun exposures darker stains will give you better protection. Another important component of stain longevity is water exposure. Exposure to snow, dew, and rain can cause damage to your stain over time. Any cracks in your decks surface will allow water to seep in. You want a stain that will be able to protect your deck from damage caused by water.

In order for a stain to last as long as possible the wood on your deck should be prepared before your apply the stain. Before applying the deck stain you will need to repair or replace any wood that has become rotten or damaged. The surface of the deck should be thoroughly cleaned and dried before the new stain is applied. Think about power washing and sanding your deck if you have an old finish on it. Not all stains are compatible and you want to prevent problems down the line. Your end result should be a deck that is free from any damage and splinters. Learn more about prep work for staining decks.