Ah summer! Backyard gatherings with family and friends are fun, but looking at a faded, worn deck or fence can put a damper on your summer entertaining. If you are overwhelmed by the daunting task of staining your deck or fence you are not alone. But, there is an affordable way to restore beauty and longevity that is MUCH easier than hand applications that can take hours and days.
CONSIDER A PRESSURE SPRAYER:
Pressure sprayers are excellent tools for applying stain to decks and fences. Not only do they save time and reduce fatigue, sprayers can provide a better, more uniform application than brushes or rollers. Some of the benefits of using a pressure sprayer include:
- Can be used with oil or water based stains.
- Cover large areas in a short amount of time.
- Either backpack or hand-held models can be used.
- Pressure sprayers can effectively apply stain into crevices, nooks and crannies.
- Adjustable pressure settings allow you to use the right amount of pressure to achieve a good application while minimizing drips.
- Fan nozzles provide a full spray pattern, while adjustable nozzles can be used in smaller areas.
- Pressure sprayers do not atomize the stain like airless sprayers do, reducing “stain clouds” and overspray.
- Now that you are ready to start staining, here are some tips from the pros!
STAINING TIPS:
- Pressure wash your deck or fence first. Pressure washing prepares the wood by cleaning off the surface layer, removing old finish, greyed areas and stains. It also removes dirt, leaves and twigs that may be trapped between the decking boards, which helps prevent rot and fungus. And because a pressure washer only uses water, it’s harmless to surrounding plants and trees.
- Select a quality wood ‘stain and sealant in one’.
- Begin with a test area and adjust the pressure to get the desired application.
- Apply stain a section at a time until wood is completely saturated.
- Keep a good distance.
- Cover areas where you do not want stain with drop cloths and tape. Cardboard works great on areas with open backs, such as railings, balusters and steps. Do not let the cardboard touch the wood, and move/reuse it as you move along.
CLEANING YOUR SPRAYER:
To get the longest out of your sprayer, and to have it work well next time you use it, thoroughly clean your sprayer after each use. Leftover stain will gunk up the seals and spray nozzle causing damage and poor performance.
Oil Based Stains: Mineral spirits are recommended for cleaning after use with oil base stains. Be sure to run the solvent though all parts of the sprayer. Follow with a clean water flush.
Water Based Stains: A soap and water solution is all you need to properly clean after a water-based stain. Follow with a clean water flush.
Follow these steps and you be enjoying the benefits of a beautiful deck or fence for several years. Send us pictures of your project!
For information on solo sprayers visit our website at https://us.solo.global