How do you fix peeling deck stain?

What causes deck stain to peel?

There are a few common causes for deck stain peeling:

• Applying stain over dirty or untreated wood – Any dirt, mildew, grease etc. left on the wood will prevent the stain from properly adhering and penetrating the wood.
• Using the wrong stain – Using an oil-based stain over a latex/acrylic one (or vice versa) will often cause peeling. The new stain has trouble bonding with the old.
• Applying stain too thick – Multiple heavy coats of stain won’t let the wood properly absorb the stain, causing it to sit on top and peel.
• Weathering – Over time with exposure to sun, rain, snow etc. the stain will gradually break down and begin peeling.
• Not enough prep/dry time – Stain needs a properly prepared and dry surface to adhere to. Rushing the project leads to peeling.

The most common cause of peeling is applying stain over a surface that wasn’t properly cleaned and prepared. Taking the time to properly prep the wood before staining is key to getting long-lasting results.

How to prepare a deck for new stain

Here are the steps to prep a deck before applying fresh stain:

1. Clean the wood – Use a deck cleaning solution or wood brightener to remove dirt, grease, mildew and any loose flaking stain. Rinse thoroughly.
2. Sand – Lightly sand to smooth any rough areas and help the stain penetrate. 80-100 grit sandpaper is ideal.
3. Replace bad boards – Any rotted, splintered or cracked boards will need replacing before staining.
4. Neutralize & dry – After cleaning, neutralize the wood with an oxygen bleach solution to kill any remaining mold/mildew spores. Allow 2-3 days to fully dry.
5. Apply wood conditioner – Conditioner helps control moisture absorption for more even staining.

Proper prep removes any peeling stain particles and opens the wood grain for deep penetration of the new coat of stain. Never apply stain over a dirty or damp surface.

How to fix peeling sections

For small areas of peeling deck stain:

1. Use a scraper and wire brush to remove all loose flaking stain.
2. Sand the area to feather and smooth the edges.
3. Clean sanded areas with a wood cleaner and rinse.
4. Allow area to fully dry.
5. Apply wood conditioner.
6. Use a small brush to carefully re-stain the area, feathering out the fresh stain.

Larger peeling sections will need to be completely stripped and treated like new wood. Use a chemical stripper and pressure washer to remove old failing stain before re-staining. Always test products first.

Spot repairing peelings as soon as they appear will prevent bigger problems later.

How to apply new deck stain

When the time comes to apply fresh stain, follow these tips:

• Use oil-based semi-transparent stains – These penetrate best and protect against UV damage.
• Stir stain well before and during application for consistency.
• Apply in proper weather – Stain when temps are between 50-90°F and won’t rain for 48 hrs.
• Use a pad applicator for even coverage – Rollers and sprayers can apply unevenly.
• Work in manageable sections – Stain a few boards at a time, keeping a wet edge.
• Brush with grain for smooth look.
• Maintain a wet edge – Don’t let stain dry in overlap zones to avoid lap marks.
• Allow 48 hrs dry time before light traffic.

Applying stain can be tricky. Going slowly section-by-section leads to the most professional looking finish. Remember to backbrush after rolling.

How to maintain your deck stain

To maximize the life of your deck stain:

• Re-apply stain as soon as wear shows – Don’t wait for complete failure.
• Prep deck and re-coat every 2-4 years depending on traffic and sun exposure.
• Inspect deck periodically – Look for early signs of wear, cracking or peeling.
• Clean deck yearly – Use a cleaner made for wood decks.
• Spot treat any trouble areas – Fix problems immediately before they spread.
• Consider re-staining high traffic walking paths more frequently than railings and bench areas.

Proper prep work is key to getting the longest life from your deck stain. Address any peelings or failing sections promptly. With proper application and care, a fresh coat of stain should last 2-4 years before needing to re-apply.

Tips for choosing a deck stain

With so many deck stain options on the market, it can be tricky choosing the right product. Here are some helpful buying tips:

• Oil-based stains offer the best protection and longevity.
• Look for UV protection – Blocking ultraviolet light prevents graying.
• Match latex and oil-based – Don’t mix water and oil-based products.
• Semi-transparent stains look most natural and highlight grain.
• Solid color stains provide the most coverage if concealing flaws.
• Stains with mildewcides will help resist future growth.
• Look for stain and sealer 2-in-1 products to streamline application.

Always test stain samples first to ensure you like the color and finish. Read the manufacturer instructions carefully. Buy quality products from reputable brands.

Conclusion

With the right prep work, application and maintenance, you can keep your deck looking great for years before needing to strip and re-stain. Address any peeling issues promptly. When it does come time to re-stain, proper surface preparation will help the new finish adhere and prevent future peeling. Taking the time to correctly stain your deck will provide long-lasting beauty and protection.

Cause of Peeling	Solution
Unprepared wood surface	Clean, sand and dry wood fully before applying stain
Using wrong type of stain	Use oil-based stain over oil-based, latex over latex
Applying stain too thick	Wipe or brush out excess stain
Exposure to sun, rain and weather	Re-stain deck every 2-4 years
Rushing project/not enough dry time	Allow 2-3 dry days between steps

Deck Prep Steps

1. Clean
2. Sand
3. Replace Bad Boards
4. Neutralize & Dry
5. Apply Conditioner

Applying Stain

• Oil-based semi-transparent
• Stir stain well before and during
• Apply in 50-90°F
• Use pad applicator
• Work in manageable sections
• Brush with grain
• Maintain wet edge
• Allow 48 hrs dry time

Stain Maintenance Tips

• Re-apply at first signs of wear
• Prep and re-coat every 2-4 years
• Inspect deck periodically
• Clean deck yearly
• Spot treat trouble areas immediately
• Re-stain high traffic areas more often

Choosing a Stain

• Oil-based offer best protection
• Look for UV protection
• Match latex and oil-based
• Semi-transparent look most natural
• Solid color provide more coverage
• Mildewcides help resist growth
• 2-in-1 products simplify application