Staining Checklist

Before and After

Materials

Deck Cleaning Product (formulated for hardwood).
Deck Brightener Product, formulated for hardwood (if preferred, there are products on the market that combine a cleaning and brightener into a one-step process).
Deck Stain Product with a UV inhibitor, formulated for hardwood.
Bristle brush/roller and roller pans, 3/8″ nap roller cover.

Step #1 – Clean the Deck

Sweep the deck until the surface is clear of debris (dirt and leaves).

Step #2 – Apply a Deck Cleaning Product

Apply a deck cleaning product formulated for hardwood and follow instructions on the label.

Scrub the deck boards with the grain of the wood.

Rinse the cleaning product from the deck and surrounding area thoroughly with water.

Step #3 – Apply a Deck Brightener Product

Apply a deck brightener product formulated for hardwood with a mop or sprayer and follow instructions on the label.

Allow a few days for the wood to completely dry. The amount of days will depend on the environmental conditions.

Step #4 – Apply a Deck Stain Product

Apply a deck stain product formulated for hardwood with a UV inhibitor and color of choice (follow instructions on the label).

Work with the grain of the wood.

Wipe/clean off any excess product that is on the surface of the deck (typically 30 minutes after application). This is an important step in the process because excess residue of the product can create sticky and shiny spots on the deck.

Clean-up

Dispose of clean-up material according to local, state, and federal regulations.