Top 10 deck staining and sealing services in Mechanicsville, VA
Costs to stain a deck
Frequently asked questions about deck staining, painting & refinishing companies
Deck stain and sealer serve basically the same function: to preserve wood and protect from moisture and the elements. A deck is exposed to wind, rain, and UV rains all year long. Moisture can lead to fungal and mold growth, and it could rot the wood. Protecting the deck from moisture intrusion can lengthen the life of a deck, and it can prevent individual boards from rotting which could create a safety hazard. A deck sealer is a transparent or clear finish that either forms a clear film on top of the wood or penetrates it. A deck sealer does a great job at protecting wood from moisture, but does not protect it from UV rays.
Prolonged exposure to UV rays dries up the wood’s natural oils causing cracking and splitting. Deck stains have the same moisture resistant qualities as deck sealing. However, deck stain has added pigment. This color is partially transparent which gives deck stain an added UV protection benefit.
Staining and sealing a deck achieve the same basic aim which is to protect the wood from moisture. Deck sealers are usually a clear finish that coats the outside surface of your deck’s wood. Sealer protects the wood from moisture, which is crucial. Unwanted moisture can cause rot, and encourage the growth of mold, fungus and mildew. Deck sealer does not protect the wood from UV rays. ‘’Even protected with deck sealer, your deck’s color may only last three-to-six months before graying and fading. Sealant should be applied once a year, and is relatively simple to apply.
Deck stains penetrate the surface of the wood. Stains contain pigment that changes the color of the wood providing UV protection. There are a wide range of stains. Getting the right level of opacity depends on the wood surface and your personal taste. Applying stain is tricky. It may make sense to hire a deck contractor to apply it for you. While stain is more expensive than sealer, and typically involves hiring a pro, it lasts up to five times longer. A sealed deck will look more professional. Ultimately, the choice as to whether to stain or seal your deck is up to you.
It’s great to be able to enjoy the outdoors on your deck. A deck provides extra room for entertaining, and a way to enjoy fresh air in the comfort of your home. It’s important to protect a wood deck from the elements. Unwanted moisture encourages rot which can weaken the structure of the deck and shorten its useful lifespan. Moisture also encourages harmful fungal and mold growth. Both staining and sealing your deck protects it from moisture. However, staining a deck offers the additional advantage of protecting the wood from UV rays.
Deck stain offers UV protection due to the pigment it contains. The darker the stain, the better the deck stain protects your deck. There is a wide array of stains. Getting the right opacity depends on the surface you are staining and your taste. Staining a deck is more expensive than sealing it. The stain itself is more expensive, and it makes sense to invest in hiring a deck contractor to apply the stain as application can be a bit tricky. However, staining a deck protects it from both moisture and UV rays. Deck stain lasts longer than deck sealant.
It’s important to protect your deck because wood on your deck is exposed to the elements all year long. Rain can seep into the wood and encourage the growth of mildew and fungus. Unwanted moisture leads to rot which weakens wood and shortens the life of your deck. Applying deck sealant protects the wood from moisture. But moisture isn’t the only threat to your deck. UV rays dry out the wood, causing splitting and cracking. In order to protect your deck from both moisture and woods, it makes sense to invest in a deck stain and sealant. The pigment in staining protects your deck from the sun’s harmful rays. Stain is more expensive than a sealant but lasts up to five times as long.
Many stains contain a protective sealant. You can test your deck’s surface to see if the stain with the protective sealant by sprinkling water on the wood periodically. If the water beads up, the sealant in the stain is still working. Some experts recommend resealing your stained deck yearly.
Recent reviews for Mechanicsville deck staining & sealing services
Excellent responsiveness in communication. Excellent work quality. Excellent to keep appointment.
Even though the weather was not cooperating they did not stop them. They continued to keep in contact, to make sure I was available when a nice couple of days were forecasted to replace my roofing. They did a excellent job. Very professional, would rec...
RKC's work was very good quality & the price was very fair. The work was completed on schedule. Ronnie addressed any issues that came up during the course of the project to our satisfaction. I felt like we were dealt with in a fair & honest manor. I'...
Your technician was really a craftsman. In one day he removed all the rotted wood on our porch and replaced it. He matched the paint perfectly. It looks better than new. Thanks again!
The job was finished on time and all of the work looked great. Easy to work with and always got right back to me with any questions.
Rive Bend has done work at our home several times. It has been outstanding in all cases. This is the "go to" company for home repairs of all types.
Did an incredible job in a quick and timely manner. I would suggest these guys to anyone and would call them for any other work I needed done.
Riverbend is a great firm to work with - they do what they say when they say they're going to do it. Very happy with them
The workmanship is EXCELLENT. We were quoted one price and charged another. Get everything in writing with this company. They are fully insured and offer a year warranty. They are extremely expensive. Terry and Ken do outstanding work. Again get everyt...
Dishonest, disrespectful, thief. 2 months post being hired and paid in full, he was still giving excuses for why he could not complete the work. At the point where he claimed he was receiving death threats to himself and his company I asked for a refun...
