EXPERT ADVICE

How to Prepare a Deck for Staining

Cleaning and sanding your wood deck are essential steps before you apply stain or paint. Start with a clean surface to help finishes stick and prevent peeling. Follow these deck maintenance guidelines and learn how to prep a deck for staining.

Cleaning and sanding your wood deck are essential steps before you apply stain or paint. Start with a clean surface to help finishes stick and prevent peeling. Follow these deck maintenance guidelines and learn how to prep a deck for staining.

Cost: $
Skill Level: Intermediate
Duration: 1 day

Jump to Supplies

Cost: $
Skill Level: Beginner
Duration: 2 days

Cost: $
Skill Level: Beginner
Duration: 2 days

Cost: $
Skill Level: Beginner
Duration: 2 days

Jump To Supplies
STEP 1

Sweep

Thoroughly sweep the deck to remove all leaves and other debris.

Tip: Always wear protective equipment to avoid contact with skin and eyes.

STEP 2

Clean

Liberally apply cleaner using a roller or pump sprayer. If you have a large deck, work in small sections to make sure the area stays wet at all times.

Allow the cleaner to set for approximately 15 minutes.

  • If necessary, mist your work area with a garden hose to keep it wet while the cleaner soaks into the wood.
  • If you encounter any grease stains, clean them with a TSP substitute or another mild detergent.

Tip: SuperDeck® Stain & Sealer Remover should be used on all exterior wood that has been previously treated or stained. Always follow up with an application of Revive™.

Tip: SuperDeck® Revive™ Deck and Siding Brightener neutralizes Stain & Sealer Remover and restores the natural appearance of cedar or redwood. Revive also takes the factory finish off of new wood.

Tip: SuperDeck® Deck Wash removes mold and mildew from composite decking and unstained pressure-treated wood.

STEP 3

Scrub

After 15 minutes, work the cleaner into the surface using a stiff synthetic-bristle brush. Scrub thoroughly to remove all residue.

STEP 4

Rinse

Use a garden hose with a good stream to completely rinse the cleaner from the wood. You may also use a power washer equipped with a 45-degree tip set at 1200 - 1400 psi.

Keep a distance of 8- to 12-inches from the surface and spray with the grain of the wood to avoid damage to the surface of the deck.

STEP 5

Sand

Once completely dry, lightly sand the deck, including any areas of new wood to remove any remaining residue.

Tip: Before you apply stain, test on a small area and let it dry to ensure the color is right. If possible, avoid applying the stain in direct sunlight and try to pick a day where there isn't rain in the forecast.

Popular Deck Stain Colors

Need color inspiration? Here are shades we love for this project.