Ask an expert: How to stain your deck

14 Dec 2022

Give your deck an easy makeover with everything you need from your local Resene ColorShop.

First impressions count. A nicely stained deck will not only make a huge difference to how your outdoor space looks but will ensure your decking timber lasts the distance keeping it weatherproof and less likely for the wood to dry or split.. No matter what kind of deck you have, staining protects it from the elements and prolongs its life. While doing it yourself might feel like a daunting task, rest assured that with the right prep, products and tools, you'll be cranking up the barbie on your revamped deck before you know it.

In this MasterStroke Ask An Expert video, Resene paint expert, Jay Sharples shows you how it’s done.

Step 1

Preparing your deck is essential before you get into the staining. Treat your deck with Resene Moss & Mould Killer. Mix Resene Moss & Mould Killer with water and scrub or spray onto any areas where there is moss or mould. Follow the mixing ratio and instructions on the container.

Step 2

Now it’s time to give your deck a good clean. And no, this doesn’t mean just a hose-off. Use Resene Timber and Deck Wash - scrub the product into the surface for 15 minutes while keeping it wet so the grain opens up on the timber and the product will penetrate properly. Wash off with a pressure washer and allow the deck to dry completely.

Don’t be tempted to use a water blaster.  You’ll risk gouging your deck which will reduce its lifetime.

Step 3

Now it’s time to apply your Resene Woodsman Decking Oil Stain. Use a PAL Deck Master Brush for the best application. Maintain a wet edge at all times, and apply the stain to a couple of boards at a time to get a nice even finish from one end to the other. Always apply in the direction of the grain.

Step 4

Your deck will usually require two coats of stain. Ensure you leave a day between each coat to ensure proper drying time.  Avoid applying too much stain.  Stains are designed to penetrate into the surface, not sit on top.  If you prefer more buildup on the surface, consider using a Resene paint finish instead.

Jay’s top tips

• Wait seven days before putting your furniture and barbecue back on the deck.
• Avoid applying stain in direct sunlight. Start early in the morning if possible or later in the day (but avoid too close to nightfall), this will mean the stain will penetrate rather than drying on the surface. Equally, never attempt to stain your deck on a rainy day, this will spell disaster.
• Decks should be restained every two years to ensure your timber lasts the distance.

Staining your deck is so easy it can be completed in a weekend. This weathered pine deck was  stained  in Resene Woodsman Decking Stain CoolColour™ tinted to Resene Bushtrack.

Choosing a stain

There is a huge range of colours available when it comes to deck stains. If the traditional dark brown doesn't float your boat, you can opt for anything from silvery greys, white to black, with blues, yellows, greens and even red in between. Resene offers a timber hues to enhance the natural look, with options like Resene Natural being very popular.  Otherwise you can go towards grey with Resene Tiri or more traditional timber colours with Resene Dark Rimu. Jay suggests visiting your local Resene ColorShop with photos of your deck for advice on what will work best for you and your deck, or ask a Resene Paint Expert free online, www.resene.com/paintexpert. 

Decks can get very hot underfoot on bare feet.  If you are planning a dark colour, choose a Resene CoolColour finish that will help to reflect more of the sun’s heat keeping the deck cooler than the normal colour.

If your deck is open to the weather and steps get slippery when wet, you can paint the stair or stair edges in Resene Non-Skid Deck & Path to reduce the risk of slipping.

About MasterStroke by Resene

MasterStroke by Resene is here to help you master your paint and decorating DIY projects. Brush up on your skills with advice, tips and ideas from our trusted experts.  Check out the latest how to videos at www.youtube.com/@masterstrokebyresene. 

Published: 14 Dec 2022