Can you use deck stain on pressure treated wood?

Not only can you stain treated wood, painting and staining pressure-treated wood is actually good for your new deck. Although the treated wood doesn’t need to be protected against rot, staining it will help reduce surface cracking.

How long do you need to wait to stain pressure treated wood?

If you buy ordinary pressure-treated lumber from a home center, however, you’ll have to wait anywhere from two to three days for the wood to dry sufficiently before you can apply a water-based semitransparent protective stain.

Can I stain my pressure treated deck right away?

It’s important to wait until your pressure-treated wood is completely dry before applying stain, as the chemicals used to treat the wood often leave additional moisture behind. Drying times range anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on such factors as weather and climate.

Is it okay to stain pressure treated wood?

Recently, pressure treated lumber will have a high moisture content and may take several weeks to dry. 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.

Is it better to paint or stain 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.

Should you sand pressure-treated wood before staining?

Sanding pressure-treated wood is actually contraindicated because, as Sand & Stain warns, you’ll end up partially removing the protective coating created by the pressure treatment, and the wood will look terrible. Once the wood has dried completely, it’s ready for a coat of transparent or semitransparent stain.

Do you need to sand pressure treated wood before staining?

How long should deck dry before staining?

Always make sure the deck is clean and dry before you begin staining. Wait at least 24 hours after washing your deck to apply stain. Also, try to avoid staining your deck right before it rains. Most stains require at least 2-3 hours for drying.

What is the best stain for pressure treated decks?

Either stain, the 100 or 1500 Series is the best TWP stain for pressure treated pine decks, fences, or other exterior surfaces. Depending on the wood’s porosity, TWP can be applied in 1 or 2 coats. If 2 coats are necessary it is best applied “wet on wet” to ensure maximum absorption and an even finish.

How long should you wait before staining a new deck?

Allow 24 hours for a power-washed deck to dry before applying a stain, and allow the stain to dry for four hours before applying a second coat if it’s needed. After staining the deck, wait a full 24 hours for the deck to dry before using it.

Should I pressure wash my deck before staining?

If you’re staining a newly-installed deck, you probably don’t need to power wash it. Instead, mopping it with a deck cleaning solution and washing it off with a hose and water should be all the deck needs — if that.

How to tell if deck is cedar or pressure treated?

Examine the wood for imperfections. Pressure-treated wood is made from pine, which often shows imperfections such as knots and splits. Cedar tends to be smoother and unblemished and is also less likely to warp. Look at the color of the wood if the deck has not been painted or stained.