The Best Wood Deck Stain & Cleaners

Preparing the Deck

• Remove any furnishings, toys, grills, planters or other items from the deck's surface. Sweep the area with a stiff brush to remove leaves, dust or dirt. Spray the entire deck down with a garden hose to remove any residual dirt. Protect any surrounding plants with plastic sheeting.

Cleaning the Deck

• The best method of deck cleaning depends on the deck's condition. For a lightly soiled deck, a commercially available deck cleaning product can be applied with a heavy duty roller and rinsed with water. If the deck shows a great deal of wear or dirt, use a pressure washer for best results. Use the fan setting on the washer to avoid damaging the wood surface.

Best Deck Stains

• The deck may be stained if desired. For best results use an oil-based stain to achieve longer-lasting results than with a water-based stain. Avoid solid stains as they don't stand up well to regular foot traffic and will require frequent touch-ups. Thoroughly wash and dry the surface before staining. Apply the stain with a roller, brush or sprayer.

Water Repellents and Preservatives

• Another popular deck treatment option is a clear water repellent or preservative. This will protect the deck from the elements while allowing the natural color and grain to show through. This is only a valid option for decks that are in good condition. A clear water repellent will allow the deck to silver or gray as it ages. A clear wood preservative will also help to retain the wood's original color.