Deck Resurfacing & Re-staining: A Fresh Look for Your Outdoor Space

A well-maintained deck is the heart of any outdoor space—a place to relax, entertain, and enjoy the fresh air. But over time, exposure to sun, rain, and daily wear can leave it looking dull, rough, or faded. Resurfacing and re-staining your deck can bring it back to life, restoring its beauty while protecting the wood for years to come.

If your deck has seen better days, here’s what goes into the deep sanding, hand sanding, and staining process to give it a fresh, new look.

Why Resurface and Re-stain?

Decks take a beating from the elements, and without proper care, wood can crack, fade, and become more susceptible to damage. Regular maintenance—like sanding and staining—helps:

✅ Extend the deck’s lifespan by sealing out moisture and preventing rot.✅ Improve safety by smoothing rough, splintered boards. ✅ Enhance the appearance with a fresh, rich stain. ✅ Reduce long-term repairs, saving time and money.

This process isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about preserving and protecting your investment.

Before and After

The Step-by-Step Deck Resurfacing Process

1. Deep Cleaning & Inspection

Before sanding, the deck needs to be cleared of furniture, swept, and cleaned to remove dirt and debris. A thorough inspection checks for: ✔ Loose boards✔️ Protruding nails or screws✔️ Any signs of rot or damage

Repairs are done before moving on to sanding to ensure a strong, stable surface.

2. Deep Sanding & Hand Sanding

Sanding is the most important step in resurfacing a deck. It removes the old stain, smooths rough areas, and preps the wood for even stain absorption.

🔹 Deep Sanding – Using a floor sander with coarse grit (40-60), the surface is stripped of old stain, imperfections, and weather damage. 🔹 Fine Sanding – A second pass with finer grit (80-100) smooths the surface for an even finish.🔹 Hand Sanding – Hard-to-reach areas, edges, and railings are carefully sanded to match the rest of the deck.

This step is time-consuming, but it makes all the difference in the final look and durability of the stain.

3. Cleaning & Drying

Once sanding is complete, all dust is removed using a leaf blower, vacuum, or damp cloth. The deck is then left to dry completely before staining to ensure the best adhesion.

4. Stain Application

With a smooth, clean surface, it’s time to apply the stain. The right stain not only enhances the wood’s appearance but also provides a protective layer against moisture and sun damage.

✔️ Stain is applied with a brush, roller, or sprayer, following the wood grain. ✔ A second coat may be added for extra depth and protection. ✔ Drying times vary, but most stains require 24-48 hours before use.

5. Final Touches & Curing

Once the stain is fully dry, the deck gets a final inspection to check for even coverage and any missed spots. It’s then ready for furniture, décor, and outdoor enjoyment!

How Often Should You Re-stain a Deck?

The frequency of deck maintenance depends on weather exposure, wood type, and stain quality. As a general rule:

🟢 Solid stains last 4-6 years but can peel over time.🟢 Semi-transparent stains last 2-3 years and allow more wood grain to show.🟢 Clear sealers protect the wood but need reapplication every 1-2 years.

To test if your deck needs re-staining, sprinkle some water on the surface—if it absorbs quickly, it’s time for a fresh coat!

Need Help With Your Deck? We've Got You Covered!

Resurfacing and restaining a deck takes time, patience, and the right tools to get a smooth, long-lasting finish. If you’d rather skip the hassle and let the pros handle it, Rainier Ridge Home Services is here to help!