Deck & Fence Staining
Done Right
Protect your investment with premium wood stains and expert prep guidance.
Get Expert AdviceProper Prep is Everything
Most deck and fence staining failures happen because of poor prep, not poor stain. Skip these steps and your stain will peel, flake, or fade within a year. Follow them and you'll get 3-5 years of protection.
Step 1: Clean Thoroughly
Power wash to remove dirt, mildew, old stain, and gray weathered wood. Use a deck cleaner (like Woodluxe Wood Cleaner) for stubborn stains and mildew. Let dry completely—at least 48 hours in sunny weather.
Pro tip: Wood should be dry to the touch and moisture content below 15% before staining.
Step 2: Sand if Needed
If the wood is rough, splintered, or has raised grain after washing, sand with 80-grit sandpaper. This opens the pores and helps stain penetrate evenly. Remove sanding dust with a brush or leaf blower.
Pro tip: Don't over-sand. You want the wood slightly rough so stain can grip.
Step 3: Check the Weather
Stain when temperatures are between 50-90°F and no rain is forecast for 24-48 hours. Avoid direct sun—stain dries too fast and won't penetrate. Early morning or late afternoon is best.
Pro tip: In Salmon Arm, late May through September is ideal. Don't rush it.
Step 4: Apply Evenly
Use a brush, roller, or sprayer. Work with the grain. Apply liberally but don't puddle. Back-brush to work stain into the wood. Most semi-transparent stains need one coat; solid stains may need two.
Pro tip: Stain the ends of boards first—they soak up more stain than the faces.
Everything You Need for Your Deck & Fence Project
From cleaning and prep to final coat, we stock every product and tool for professional results.
Cleaning & Prep
- Woodluxe Wood Cleaner & Brightener
- Power washing supplies and nozzles
- Deck scrub brushes and pole brushes
- Sandpaper and sanding blocks (80-grit)
- Moisture meters (test before staining)
- Drop cloths and masking materials
Application Tools
- Wooster deck stain brushes and pads
- Roller covers for horizontal surfaces
- Extension poles for railings and fences
- Graco airless sprayers for large decks
- Paint trays and liners
- Safety gear (gloves, goggles, respirators)
Wood Stains & Finishes
- Woodluxe® semi-transparent stains
- Sansin solid colour wood stains
- Clear sealers and water repellents
- Natural, cedar, redwood, and gray tones
- UV-resistant formulas for Shuswap sun
- Mildew-resistant finishes
Maintenance Products
- Annual deck cleaners
- Mildew removers and preventers
- Touch-up stain (same colour as original)
- Wood brighteners for gray weathering
- Deck screws and fasteners
Deck & Fence Stain Inspiration
See how the right stain protects your wood and enhances your outdoor space.
Rich Cedar Tone
Semi-transparent stain shows wood grain beautifully
Natural Protection
Proper prep and quality stain transform weathered wood
Why We Carry Woodluxe & Sansin
Deck and fence stains need to penetrate deep, resist UV fade, shed water, and handle temperature swings. Woodluxe and Sansin are formulated specifically for Canadian climates. They last longer, look better, and protect better than hardware store brands. When you're staining a deck once every 3-5 years, use products that perform.
Woodluxe®
Premium semi-transparent and solid stains with UV protection and mildew resistance. Shows wood grain beautifully.
Sansin
Water-based penetrating stains that won't peel or flake. Environmentally friendly and long-lasting protection.
Ready to Start Your Deck or Fence Project?
Visit our showroom to see stain colors on real wood samples, get prep advice, and talk through your project timeline.