For newer decks built with pressure-treated lumber, it’s best to choose a light-colored wood stain because once you go dark with stain you cannot go back. Desert Sand is a gorgeous, semi-transparent beige that looks wonderful on rustic treated wood decks.
What happens if you stain pressure-treated wood too soon?
The wood will then swell until it dries when it will shrink again . This pattern of swelling and shrinking can cause damage to the wood such as splits, checks, splinters, cracks, and other blemishes. Protection from UV rays is also necessary for insurance against fading, discoloration, and warping.
Can you stain pressure treated wood fence?
Any stain that is designed for exterior use will work to stain pressure treated wood. While you will find oil-based stains and latex stains, most homeowners prefer using oil-based stains for pressure-treated wood.
Can you stain a pressure-treated fence?
Staining pressure-treated wood is ineffective if the wood is still wet. ... Pressure treated wood that contains a water repellant will not absorb a water-based stain as well as an oil-based exterior stain. To determine if pressure treated wood is dry enough to stain, try the “sprinkle” test.
How long should you wait before staining a new pressure-treated fence?
On average, you’ll want to wait 4 weeks to 6 months before staining the wood. This is largely dependent on how humid your area is and how your wood was treated.
Is it better to stain or paint pressure-treated wood?
For similar reasons, wet lumber can hinder how well paint adheres to the wood, but the added problem of the preservatives in pressure-treated wood makes it difficult for the paint to bond; this is why it’s advisable to stain pressure-treated wood instead of paint , as painting requires additional preparation.
How long do you have to wait to seal pressure-treated wood?
A newly built deck that uses pressurized wood will need time to dry completely before a sealer can be applied. The chemicals used to treat the wood leave moisture behind, and depending on the climate, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months until it’s dry enough to seal.
Is Thompson water Seal good for pressure-treated wood?
Wolman RainCoat, made by one of the big names in pressure-treating, is a widely sold water repellent that is a good choice for use on pressure-treated wood, although it can also be used on other types of wood. ... The directions for some, such as Thompson’s Water Seal, specify pressure-treated wood as a suitable use.
What is the best way to seal pressure-treated wood?
For fully exposed decks, a water-repellent sealer or a penetrating semi-transparent stain may provide the best finishing solution, even on wood that has been pressure treated with preservatives. Special formulations made specifically for decks are available.
How do you keep brown pressure-treated wood looking new?
If you’re looking to maintain the original color of pressure-treated wood longer, you will need to not only clean your deck periodically, but also apply a water-repellent finish with an ultraviolet stabilizer . The stabilizer will not prevent eventual discoloration, but will slow the process.
Do you need to sand pressure-treated wood before staining?
All wood, except manufactured products like composite wood — even pressure-treated lumber — need to be sanded and stained . If you want it to last, you have to put in the time and some elbow grease.
Should I sand a new fence before staining?
If the fence is a new one, then there should not be any need for sanding it . You should not stain over a painted fence, sand it first to prepare the surface. If you want to add color choose a stain which will bring out the best from the grain of the wood.
Should I pressure wash my fence before staining?
Before applying any type of finish to a fence, including stains, you need to remove any old finish(es) and remove any built up dirt, dust, grime or other substances from the fence. ... Pressure washing a fence before staining it will also ensure blemishes are removed that could show through the surface of the stain .
Is staining a fence worth it?
Benefits of Staining and Sealing Fences
Staining and sealing wooden fencing not only keeps it looking good it also ensures it will last longer, particularly if a softwood like pine has been used for construction.
Does pressure treated wood fence need to be sealed?
If wood has been pressure-treated, a sealant isn’t necessary , as the wood already has been injected with preservatives, John Elaison says. Homeowners also should keep sprinklers from wetting the fence, which causes the wood to rot faster. And bushes and vines should be kept off the fence.
How often do you stain pressure treated wood?
Many homeowners wonder, “How often should I stain my deck?” To keep a deck looking great and prolong the life of the wood, a deck should be stained every two to three years .
