How to Stain and Seal a Wood Deck in a Hot, Humid Climate

Unprotected wood turns gray, cracks and grows mildew fast in Florida. Staining and sealing keeps a deck or fence looking good and makes it last years longer.

Choose the right finish

• Clear sealer: shows the natural wood but offers little UV protection, so it fades fastest in full sun.
• Semi-transparent stain: adds color and UV protection while the grain still shows. The best all round choice for most Florida decks.
• Solid stain: covers like paint and protects the most from sun, but it can peel on walking surfaces and hides the grain.

Look for products that include mildew protection, and check whether your wood (pressure treated pine, cedar or tropical hardwood) needs a specific type.

Step by step

1. Repair first. Replace rotten boards and reset raised nails or screws.
2. Clean. Use a deck cleaner to remove dirt, mildew and gray fibers. Use low pressure; high pressure tears up the wood.
3. Brighten. A wood brightener after cleaning restores color and helps stain soak in evenly.
4. Let it dry. Usually two days of dry weather. New pressure treated wood may need weeks to dry out before staining.
5. Apply thin coats with a brush or pad, working a few boards at a time along their full length to avoid lap marks.
6. Back brush if you spray, so the stain works into the wood.
7. Stay off it for the time on the label, usually 24 to 48 hours for furniture.

Timing in Florida

Pick a dry period with mild temperatures, and avoid staining in direct afternoon sun, which can dry the stain before it soaks in. Morning is best, after the dew has dried.

How often to refinish

• Deck floors: every one to two years.
• Railings and fences: every two to three years.
• A simple test: sprinkle water on the wood. If it soaks in right away, it is time.

Frequently asked questions

Should I paint or stain my deck?

Stain. Paint forms a film that peels on walking surfaces and traps moisture in the wood.

Can I stain new pressure treated wood?

Wait until it is dry. Sprinkle water on it: if it beads, wait longer.

Shop deck cleaners and stains in the CSI Store, or post your deck or fence staining job and compare bids.