As a deck owner, you want only the best for your living space. Sure, it looks great now; but over time, foot traffic and exposure to sun and rain will fade its natural beauty. Worry not because we have the solution: deck staining.
This treatment brings many functional and aesthetic perks to your outdoor oasis — but only when done properly! Keep reading and discover why it’s worth hiring a professional for the job.
An Intensive, Detail-Oriented Process
Many people assume that staining a deck is an easy DIY job. Just slap on some paint and let it dry, right? Wrong.
Achieving a beautiful, long-lasting surface requires precision and attention to detail, qualities usually found only in professional contractors. To give you an idea of the complexity involved, here’s a quick overview of the steps involved in creating a showroom-level finish:
Make Structural Repairs
Has your deck seen better days? Leaving cracks, divots, and other existing damage untreated can significantly affect the outcome of the job. Staining over mold and rot — especially when widespread — will basically seal in the problem, and they will slowly eat away at the structure over time.
You need to address these issues first, and a contractor will be qualified to do just that.
Refresh the Area
Any contaminant between the stain and substrate lowers the lifespan of the finish and can even cause discoloration. That’s why you should remove all built-up dirt, debris, and old layers of paint or stain before proceeding.
It’s not just a matter of using a hose or pressure washer; you must also use the right cleaners and techniques. Otherwise, you risk damaging the wood itself. Working with caustic substances can also harm you and others if you’re not careful.
Prep the Surface
Carefully sanding the wood will smoothen and “open” it up, which helps the stain adhere better. You need to apply even pressure and use the appropriate grit level. Otherwise, you could leave behind a bumpy and uneven surface.
Many professionals also apply a pre-sealer or pre-stain conditioner to the material, which helps even out the color and ensures a consistent finish.
Evenly Apply the Stain
As if readying the surface wasn’t hard enough, now comes the most challenging part: the actual deck staining. Using a brush, roller, or spray gun (or any combination of these), you must apply a uniform layer to the entire structure. This requires skill and precision — not only do you need to move fast, but you must also remain consistent in your technique, or there might be variations in the tone.
Skip the Hassle and Invest in Deck Staining in Oakland County
We understand that DIY projects can feel fun and rewarding, but some tasks best suit the hands of an experienced and trained team. Consider the benefits of taking this route:
Spend Less Money in the Long Run
Handling the work yourself might seem cost-effective in theory, but it may prove less so in practice. Buying or renting the equipment and materials for a large deck isn’t cheap; if you make mistakes, this could drive up the price even more.
Hiring professionals, on the other hand, guarantees you won’t deal with unexpected costs. The team will assess the situation and determine exactly what’s needed to achieve a stunning finish.
Save Time
The prep work alone can take several days, depending on the size of the structure. This might be a challenge if you don’t have enough vacation days to spare.
When you choose to work with pros, they will come with years of experience and the right tools for the task. This translates into faster execution, allowing you to enjoy your new space sooner.
Enjoy Long-Lasting Results
Now more than ever, it is essential to invest in quality materials that guarantee protection against extreme weather conditions, especially since the state’s climate can get pretty temperamental.
Established builders source their products from trusted manufacturers, ensuring you get both premium quality and durability in the work they deliver.
Make Maintenance a Breeze
A professional-grade finish not only looks gorgeous but also simplifies upkeep. As long as you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines (which your contractor will go over with you), it should be easy to keep the deck looking like new for years to come.
Work with a Local Company
Are you convinced? Then, it’s time to find the right team for you! At Ellison Painting, we serve our clients with quality and integrity, a combination that has earned us countless 5-star ratings from satisfied customers. When you partner with us, expect the following:
- High-grade materials. Our specialists only work with premium products to ensure you get beautiful results that last.
- Personalized care. We know full well that no two projects have the same details. That’s why we tailor each of our services to meet your individual needs and budget.
- Peace of mind. We guarantee all our staining jobs, giving you confidence that we do things right the first time.
- Free estimates. Brad, the owner, will come to your property and discuss the project with you in person, ensuring you know the exact cost breakdown and timeline.
For professional deck staining that won’t disappoint, trust only the Ellison Painting pros. Give us a call today at (248) 516-2207, and let’s talk about the details! Get ready to enjoy a stunning outdoor space in no time.
