Refinishing a Pressure-Treated Deck

When refinishing wood outdoors, you have two main choices of finish: sealers, which prevent wood from
absorbing water and delay the weathering process; and stains, which both color and seal the wood.
Semitransparent stains or sealers work best on pressure-treated lumber. Avoid direct sunlight when you're
working. Watch the weather: don't apply a new finish if rain is expected within 24 hours.

WHAT
YOU'LL NEED

SKILL TOOLS
SCALE Orbital sander
Easy Pressure sprayer or paint
roller and pan
TIME Paintbrush
REQUIRED
Refinishing MATERIALS
a 10x10- Sealer or stain (check label
foot deck for coverage
should
take about
4 hours.

Use an orbital sander to remove any gloss and smooth out any rough areas on
decking boards, railings, or stair treads. Always be sure to wear a dust mask and
eye goggles to protect your eyes when sanding treated wood.

Thoroughly vacuum the deck, then apply staining sealer to all deck wood with a
pressure sprayer or paint roller. Treat the understructure first, then exposed
surfaces.

Use a paintbrush to smooth out drips and runs. Porous wood may require a
second coat of staining sealer for even coverage.