Is Your Deck Ready for Fall? Why August Is a Great Time to Stain Your Deck

By the time August rolls around in Maryland, your deck has probably been through a lot.

Hot sunny days, heavy rain, humidity, cookouts, kids and pets all take a toll. Even moving patio furniture around can wear down the finish.

As a result, you may start to notice faded boards, dry wood or areas where the stain has worn away.

If you’ve been thinking about deck staining in Howard County, late summer is a great time to look at how your deck is holding up.

The good news? A worn deck doesn’t always need to be replaced. Sometimes it simply needs a little attention.

Why Stain Your Deck Before Fall?

Late summer is a great time for deck staining in Howard County. You can get ahead of the leaves and colder weather while still having time to enjoy your deck.

More importantly, deck stain isn’t just about appearance.

Stain helps protect wood from moisture, sun and everyday wear. That protection is especially important here in Maryland.

Our decks go from hot, humid summers to wet fall weather and freezing winter temperatures. Over time, those changes can be hard on exterior wood.

Keeping your deck protected can help reduce cracking, splintering and early deterioration.

Maryland Weather Is Tough on Wood Decks

If you live in Howard County, you know how quickly our weather can change.

We get hot summers, plenty of humidity, heavy rain and cold winters. Sometimes it feels like we get three seasons in the same week.

All of that exposure can be hard on a wood deck.

Homes in Ellicott City, Columbia, Clarksville, Fulton and Elkridge all deal with the same basic problem. Sun, moisture and changing temperatures slowly wear down exterior wood.

That’s why late summer is a good time to take a closer look at your deck.

If the stain is fading or water is soaking into the boards, it may be time to give the wood some protection before winter.

You don’t have to be an expert to spot the signs.

Take a walk around your deck and look for:

• Faded or uneven color

• Gray or weathered wood

• Peeling areas

• Dry or rough boards

• Areas with heavy wear

• Water soaking into the wood

There’s also an easy test you can try.

Put a little water on the deck and watch what happens.

Does it bead on the surface? Your existing finish may still be doing its job.

Does it quickly soak into the wood? It may be time for another coat of stain.

Good Prep Makes a Big Difference

Preparation is a huge part of a good deck staining project.

You don’t want to put fresh stain over dirt, mildew or a failing finish.

Instead, the deck needs to be properly prepared first.

Depending on its condition, that may include cleaning, pressure washing and removing loose material. The wood also needs enough time to dry before stain is applied.

Good preparation takes extra time. However, it can make a big difference in the final result.

What Deck Stain Color Should You Choose?

There’s no single right answer.

Some homeowners prefer a natural finish that allows the wood grain to show. Others want a richer color that gives an older deck a more updated appearance.

Before choosing, look at the rest of your home’s exterior.

Consider the siding, trim, roof and other finishes. Ideally, the deck should feel like it belongs with the house.

Also, remember that stain can look different once it’s on the actual wood. The age and type of wood can affect the finished color.

For that reason, looking at samples before making a final decision is always a good idea.

When Is the Best Time for Deck Staining in Howard County?

There’s no magic date on the calendar.

Instead, weather conditions and the condition of the wood are what matter most.

Late summer can be a great time for Howard County homeowners to get the project done.

For one thing, you can get ahead of falling leaves and colder temperatures. In addition, you’ll still have time to enjoy the finished deck during cooler late-summer and early-fall evenings.

Once fall really gets underway, exterior projects can become harder to schedule around changing weather.

Don’t Wait Until Your Deck Looks Terrible

August always feels like summer is going to last forever.

Then the kids go back to school. The temperatures start dropping. Before you know it, leaves are covering the yard.

If you’ve spent the summer looking at your deck and thinking, “We really need to do something with this,” now is a good time to take care of it.

A faded deck doesn’t automatically mean you have a major project ahead of you.

Sometimes proper cleaning, preparation and fresh stain can make a huge difference.

Deck Staining Questions From Howard County Homeowners

How often should you stain a deck in Maryland?

Every deck is different.

The age of the wood, type of stain, direct sunlight, moisture and everyday use can all affect how long the finish lasts.

Instead of relying only on a set schedule, look at the condition of your deck.

Is the color fading? Is the wood looking dry? Is water soaking into the boards?

Those are all signs that it may be time to have your deck looked at.

What is the best time to stain a deck in Maryland?

Late spring through early fall can provide good opportunities for deck staining.

However, weather conditions matter more than the month.

The wood needs to be properly prepared and dry enough for the stain being used.

August can be a great time because it allows you to get the project done before colder weather and falling leaves arrive.

Do you need to pressure wash a deck before staining?

Your deck needs to be properly cleaned before new stain is applied.

However, the exact preparation depends on the condition of the wood and its existing finish.

Pressure washing may be part of that process. When done correctly, it can help remove dirt and buildup before staining.

The important part is starting with a properly prepared surface.

Can an older deck still be stained?

Absolutely.

An older deck doesn’t need to be replaced simply because it looks weathered.

First, look at the condition of the wood. If the deck is still in good shape, cleaning, preparation and fresh stain can make a noticeable difference.

Of course, damaged or deteriorated wood should be addressed before staining begins.

Looking for Deck Staining in Howard County?

If your deck is faded, weathered or overdue for some attention, this is a great time to take care of it.

STB Painting Company provides professional deck staining in Howard County and surrounding Maryland communities.

We serve homeowners throughout Ellicott City, Columbia, Clarksville, Fulton, Elkridge, Marriottsville and Woodstock.

We also provide professional exterior painting and other painting services to help homeowners protect and refresh their homes.

So, if you’ve spent all summer saying, “We really need to do something with this deck,” let’s finally cross it off the list.

Contact STB Painting Company to schedule an estimate and see what we can do with your deck.