Expert Advice on How-to Stain a Deck | Behr
Back Arrow Back to Wood Stains How-To
Back Arrow Back to Wood Stains How-To

How to Stain a Deck

Do you want to give your deck an update? Well, you came to the right place to learn how to stain your deck using BEHR PREMIUM® Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Stain & Sealer.

For Best Results:

Take the time to properly prepare your deck before getting started and finish your project right with a second coat. This will help you ensure long-lasting durability for years to come.

Suggested Tools & Supplies

  • BEHR PREMIUM® Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Stain & Sealer

  • BEHR PREMIUM® All-in-One Wood Cleaner

  • Brush (2"-2½")

  • Paint Key

  • Stain Applicator

  • Stain Pad

  • Extension Pole

  • Paint Tray

  • Paint Tray Liner

  • Sandpaper (150-220 Grit)

  • Stir Stick

  • Pump Sprayer

  • Broom

  • Garden Hose

  • Stiff Bristle Brush

  • Step 1

    Grab your tools.

  • Step 2

    Make sure that your deck is clean. Give it a quick sweep to remove visible dust and debris.

  • Step 3

    Using a garden hose, spray down your deck.

  • Step 4

    Apply BEHR PREMIUM® All-in-One Wood Cleaner with a pump sprayer.

  • Step 5

    Wait 15 minutes, then scrub your deck clean in the direction of the grain with a stiff bristle brush. You may notice some bubbles.

  • Step 6

    Rinse the deck thoroughly.

  • Step 7

    Allow your deck to completely dry before you begin staining. This may take about 24 hours.

    TIP: If you notice loose wood fibers, then lightly sand wood with medium-grit sandpaper. Sweep away dust before applying stain.

  • Step 8

    Using a stain pad, apply the stain evenly in the direction of the grain, two or three boards at a time, moving from end to end. Continue to the exposed ends.

  • Step 9

    Allow the stain to dry for one to two hours before applying second coat.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Orange calculator icon in a white bubble

PAINT AND STAIN CALCULATOR

Inside or outside; paint or stain: Let’s figure out how much you’ll need to make amazing happen.

Calculate

ASK AN EXPERT

Every project is unique: Keep small wrinkles from becoming big problems by letting the Behr Technical Experts lend a hand.

Get Expert Help

CONNECT WITH PRO REFERRAL - POWERED BY THE HOME DEPOT

Let Pro Referral do the leg work and match you with quality local painters.

Find a Painter
CUSTOMIZE & BUY
Tahitian sky
Small Behr logoS480-5
Compare
BLACK
BLACK
What sheen do I need?
How much paint do I need?
8 Oz. Sample
1 Gallon
1 Quart
5 Gallon
The following product(s) is required to properly prep uncoated and previously coated concrete surfaces.
Required product
BEHR PREMIUM ALL-IN-ONE WOOD CCCC
Estimated Price
$0.00
The following product(s) is required to properly prep uncoated and previously coated concrete surfaces. Only available in store at Home Depot.
Required 3rd party product
BEHR PREMIUM ALL-IN-ONE WOOD CCCC
The 9 in. x 1/4 in. Polyester Adhesive Roller Cover has a hard texture, making it ideal for applying all types of adhesives to smooth surfaces. It can be used for stippling and applying sand paints.
The following product(s) is recommended when a topcoat clear finish is desired.
Recommended product
BEHR PREMIUM ALL-IN-ONE WOOD CCCC
Estimated Price
$0.00
$0.00
Product price is estimated. Pricing could change based on your local Home Depot pricing.
The Home Depot logoSold Exclusively at The Home Depot

Subscribe

Never miss out on the latest news from BEHR.  By creating an account that includes your personal information, you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy.

Please enter email address.
Please use a valid email address.
close x

Never miss out on the best Behr promotions, products and inspiration.

Fields with an asterisk (*) are required. See our privacy policy