How long should I season my deck before staining?

• <div><p>It’s important to make sure the wood on a new deck is properly seasoned. Seasoning a deck is simple: Once you build it (or have a pro do so), just leave it alone so it can acclimate to the environment. If you don’t give the deck proper seasoning time before staining, the stain can lock in any lingering moisture and cause mold, rot, and other moisture issues down the road. Give the wood at least four to eight weeks to season before you stain.</p></div>

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Q: How long should I season my deck before staining?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s important to make sure the wood on a new deck is properly seasoned. Seasoning a deck is simple: Once you build it (or have a pro do so), just leave it alone so it can acclimate to the environment. If you don&rsquo;t give the deck proper seasoning time before staining, the stain can lock in any lingering moisture and cause mold, rot, and other moisture issues down the road. Give the wood at least four to eight weeks to season before you stain.</p></div>

Q: Is whitewashing permanent?

• <div><p>Whitewashing isn&rsquo;t permanent, but it can last for a long, long time. When you apply it correctly or have a seasoned pro whitewash your brick, whitewashing can last for 20 to 30 years or longer. Whitewash is very durable and typically requires little maintenance, making it a great project for most DIYers.</p></div>

Q: What is the difference between limewash and whitewash?

• <div><p>If you&rsquo;re deciding between <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/limewash-vs-whitewash.htm">limewash versus whitewash</a>, know that both have a chalky matte appearance. Limewash is made from lime, water, and sometimes pigment, while whitewash consists of lime, water, white chalk, and binders (though you can get a similar look with watered-down white paint). Whitewash has fewer options for color customization, and it sits on surfaces instead of being absorbed into them, which can trap moisture. Whitewashing costs less&mdash;about $1.40 to $4.20 per square foot.</p></div>

Q: Do you have to seal a deck after power washing?

• <div><p>Yes, it&rsquo;s generally a very good idea to seal your deck after <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-much-does-it-cost-pressure-wash-house.htm">pressure washing</a>. Power washing removes dirt and debris, but also a thin layer of wood. Without sealing, exposed wood can weather more quickly. Power washing will also leave you with a clean surface that will be much easier to stain and seal.</p><p></p></div>

Q: What paint is best for an old deck?

• <div><p>The best paint for an older deck depends on the material and whether or not your deck already has a coat of paint. Generally, if your deck already has paint on it, you should choose the same type of paint when repainting the deck. For example, if an old deck has oil-based paint on it, stick with oil; if your deck has water-based paint, choose water-based paint. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Cleaning pros in Hamden, CT

*The Angi rating for Deck Cleaning companies in Hamden, CT is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Deck Cleaning needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Deck Cleaning companies in Hamden, CT is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Deck Cleaning needs.

Last update on November 28, 2025

Reviewed in April 2025
Andy and Ena are very professional and were a pleasure to work with. We had our deck replaced and the work was amazing. Always on time and did the job in a very timely manner.
CT Home Improvement LLC
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Reviewed in September 2024
I wanted to quickly get the front of my house, deck, deck carpet, sidewalk and garage door done before a party this month and googled businesses, Pressure Washing Pros came up and called. The owner answered and came out within a few hours to look at everything he went back to the office and...
Pressure Washing and Painting Pros
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Reviewed in August 2024
Tom was great. We installed electronic vinyl screens for the deck at my waterfront restaurant and it has been a game changer. Tom was very knowledgeable about the options available and installed everything beautifully. He handled any issues through the process quickly and efficiently as well....
Shoreline Shade, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2024
Great work by Fabian and his team. We were well informed throughout the process. They expanded our deck and converted our second floor bedroom window into a French door with a balcony. Canâ t recommend enough if youâ re looking for a professional contractor. They had a good relationship with...
DAFA Construction
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Reviewed in October 2023
We hired John Arnone to rebuild our deck and can say that from the start, we knew he was the right choice to work with us. He impressed us from our very first meeting with his incredible attention to detail. John took the time to walk through exactly what the project would entail and where he...
Arnone Building & Remodeling Inc
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Reviewed in September 2023
Alex is great at scheduling and communication and took care of the inspections. Vasil is an excellent carpenter and mason. He showed up, worked efficiently & fast. His work is truly outstanding. He built me a beautiful little deck, trouble shooting and adapting to address my old concrete steps...
VSKEY Construction LLC
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Reviewed in July 2023
This was my first (not the last) experience with Prenga Remodeling, LLC and I cannot say enough about Agostinâ s expertise, professionalism and service. He replaced all of the flooring on the deck as well as the handrails and a number of posts. The best compliment I can pass on was a guest...
Prenga Remodeling, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2022
We hired Cleanie to clean our two-story colonial on our pool deck. As soon as the neighbor saw the results on my house, they asked for his card and they have been in my neighborhood ever since. Very professional, excellent value, and I highly recommend this company.
Cleanie LLC
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Reviewed in July 2021
The crew from Choice 1 Cleaning is reliable, hard working, pleasant, and very good at cleaning! Hire them, you will be glad you did!
Choice 1 Cleaning LLC
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Reviewed in May 2018
David did an amazing job replacing my deck. He even made suggestions that actually saved me money. That's something that doesn't happen very often. I highly recommend him if you want a job done by a real professional. Plus, he's a really nice guy.
Quality 1 Services, LLC
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