Get matched with top deck staining pros in De Soto, IA

Q: Do I need to clean my deck before staining, and what happens if I don't?

• <div><p>Yes, you must thoroughly clean your deck before staining. If you don't, dirt, debris, grease, and mildew can get trapped between the wood and the new stain. This not only looks unsightly but also prevents the stain from penetrating the wood properly, reducing its ability to protect the deck from weather and UV rays. As a result, the stain won't last as long or look as good. Any existing mold or mildew left untreated can continue to grow beneath the new stain, potentially leading to wood rot and structural damage. Always wait at least 48 hours after cleaning for the wood to dry completely before applying stain.</p></div>

Q: Should you stain or seal a cedar deck or fence?

• <div><p>Staining or sealing a cedar deck or fence is highly recommended to extend its lifespan and protect it from the elements. While cedar is naturally resistant to mold and mildew, it is not impervious to damage from moisture, sun exposure, splintering, fading, and rot over time. Applying a protective finish creates a shield that preserves the wood's strength and appearance, potentially extending its life by five to 10 years.</p><p>When choosing a finish, it's helpful to understand the difference between a sealer and a stain. A sealer sits on top of the wood, whereas a combination stain and sealer soaks into the top layer. Because it penetrates the wood, a stain generally offers better protection against UV damage and rot and lasts significantly longer. For the best results that also preserve the wood's natural color, consider using a near-translucent stain.</p><p>To maintain protection, plan on reapplying the stain or sealer every two to three years, either as a DIY project or by hiring a professional.</p></div>

Q: How do you keep stain rags from combusting?

• <div><p>Rags used with oil-based stains are highly flammable and can spontaneously combust in the right conditions. To reduce the fire risk, throw them in a metal container after use and add rocks on top to secure them. Add an inch of water and seal the container. Take the rags in the container to a hazardous waste factory as soon as possible. </p></div>

Q: Do you have to sand after spackling?

• <div><p>Yes, it's a good idea to sand the wall with fine-grit sandpaper after spackling, especially if you plan on painting. You can do this by hand or using a sander, but the idea is to ensure the spackle is flush with the wall. Sanding will give your wall a smooth, uniform finish and help your paint and wallpaper stay put.</p></div>

Q: Can exterior painting or staining be done without professional help?

• <div><p>DIY is possible but presents risks of uneven surfaces or improper adhesion; professionals offer expertise to ensure a lasting finish.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Staining pros in De Soto, IA

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

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

Last update on June 28, 2026

Reviewed in June 2026
I had AFG remove the cement & posts in the patio from steps That were removed from my deck. The workers were professional and did it in a timely manner. The cost was reasonable and I love my patio without the posts no longer in the way! Thanks!
AFG Concrete LLC
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Reviewed in September 2025
Excellent work at a fair price. Ermin recommended replacing my rotting cedar deck flooring with OC2 Cedertone pressure treated material; excellent recommendation! Work was completed on time, clean-up spotless. Very happy.
Beam Construction, LLC
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Reviewed in June 2025
CBB did a great job building a new deck including the demo. I also have them come out and a few times a year to spray for weeds and fertilize. Owner is very knowledgeable and easy to work with. He's LGBTQ+ friendly and an ally. He was very accommodating in the use of our pronouns and helped...
concept construction ny corp
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Reviewed in June 2025
Juan and his crew did a wonderful job on our deck. Although work was delayed due to rain, he kept us advised every morning as to when work could proceed. They cleaned up any debris, and were mindful of my plants while staining and sealing. Great job!
JC Construction & Handyman, LLC
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Reviewed in October 2023
Capitol Roofing & Exteriors restored our entire home exterior. I could only mark one category above, but they replaced decks, siding, soffit, and soon gutters as well. My home is beautiful! They were wonderful to work with and really took care of our family. So glad I chose this company!
Capital Roofing and Exteriors LLC
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Reviewed in October 2022
They were great to work with. Loved the finished look of our deck after stain and sealing. Would not hesitate to hire them in the future.
Flawless Painting, LLC
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Reviewed in July 2022
I had a deck built by them. They performed amazing work, and great customer service all at a great price and they were quite easy to work with!
Precision Carpentry Services
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Reviewed in July 2022
Very friendly wanting to please and did a very good job staining our fence and deck Would definitely recommend it.
Dave's Painting
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Reviewed in February 2022
New to the Des Moines area, we had just replace our deck ourselves but we were looking for a new deck railing system. We were VERY FORTUNATE to have found this really amazing company. Everyone we dealt with was highly ethical, great quality product and professional people. Kenan met with us...
Davis and Reed Homes
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Reviewed in September 2021
Rich and his team did an excellent job repairing and replacing some of our exterior siding and also painting the exterior of our colonial two-story. Siding repair, painting exterior trim and siding as well as staining our deck and pergola were accomplished in a timely manner and most...
Shepherd's Family Construction
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Find Deck staining pros in De Soto

Midwest Paint

4.9(

)

Serving De Soto, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1999

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Couldn’t of ask for any better. They did a great job explaining the pro and cons of staining or painting my deck. No pressure sales, job was done fast and without any issues. Great price and great service. Highly recommend."

Commercial Exterior Painting Before and After

Commercial Exterior Repaint with color change

+13

Response time3 days

Response rate100%

1 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving De Soto, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Just had my one-bedroom painted and I’m really happy with the results. The work was very professional and everything was prepped and cleaned up properly. Great quality work and highly recommend."

1 neighbors recently requested a quote

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All Trades Construction and Maintenance Inc

4.9(

118

)

Serving De Soto, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"The job only took an hour to complete and went smoothly. Todd made a suggestion on how to arrange the assembly as it was going from 4 holes down to 2 holes. It turned out great. I will definitely use All Trades again."

Recommended by98%of homeowners

Serving De Soto, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"He was very respectful and did an amazing job"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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A&E Exteriors of Iowa

5.0(

)

Serving De Soto, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"They was fast and friendly and did their job well. And cleaned up at the end of everyday. And if we had a concern they addressed it quick and efficiently. We was very pleased with their work and their crew. Definitely would recommend them and will be using them in the future."

Response time1 day

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Briggs Elite Services

4.6(

)

Serving De Soto, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2015

Free estimates

"Great! The owner(Mike) met with me that very next evening. Not to mention I was having issues having anyone out to give me a quote. In the beginning he was up front with me and told me he was pretty busy but assured me he would find a way to make it happen. From that moment I can tell he was compassionate about his customers. He was very professional and I could tell he knew what he was doing as a business owner. Looking forward to doing business with Briggs Elite Services in the future. I would absolutely recommend them for all your paint and drywall sevices."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Welcome Home Moving Services

5.0(

)

Serving De Soto, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"They were excellent, I would highly recommend. Everyone was very professional and showed up right when they said they would. They were gentle and everything arrived intact. They had us on the road in no time."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving De Soto, IA and surrounding areas

"Matt did an excellent job with multiple projects for me. He stained my deck and painted the interior of a couple of my properties. His price was excellent and craftsmanship was outstanding. I will be doing more business with him in the future."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Golden Touch Painters

3.9(

314

)

Serving De Soto, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Provided excellent service, and they went out of their way to make sure we were completely satisfied."

Des Moines Laundromat Interior Painting Before

+81

Response time1 day

15 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by95%of homeowners

Serving De Soto, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2005

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"He was very polite quick and clean done a wonderful job"

+16

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Showing 1-10 of 45

Deck Staining questions, answered by experts

Yes, you must thoroughly clean your deck before staining. If you don't, dirt, debris, grease, and mildew can get trapped between the wood and the new stain. This not only looks unsightly but also prevents the stain from penetrating the wood properly, reducing its ability to protect the deck from weather and UV rays. As a result, the stain won't last as long or look as good. Any existing mold or mildew left untreated can continue to grow beneath the new stain, potentially leading to wood rot and structural damage. Always wait at least 48 hours after cleaning for the wood to dry completely before applying stain.

Staining or sealing a cedar deck or fence is highly recommended to extend its lifespan and protect it from the elements. While cedar is naturally resistant to mold and mildew, it is not impervious to damage from moisture, sun exposure, splintering, fading, and rot over time. Applying a protective finish creates a shield that preserves the wood's strength and appearance, potentially extending its life by five to 10 years.

When choosing a finish, it's helpful to understand the difference between a sealer and a stain. A sealer sits on top of the wood, whereas a combination stain and sealer soaks into the top layer. Because it penetrates the wood, a stain generally offers better protection against UV damage and rot and lasts significantly longer. For the best results that also preserve the wood's natural color, consider using a near-translucent stain.

To maintain protection, plan on reapplying the stain or sealer every two to three years, either as a DIY project or by hiring a professional.

Rags used with oil-based stains are highly flammable and can spontaneously combust in the right conditions. To reduce the fire risk, throw them in a metal container after use and add rocks on top to secure them. Add an inch of water and seal the container. Take the rags in the container to a hazardous waste factory as soon as possible.

Yes, it's a good idea to sand the wall with fine-grit sandpaper after spackling, especially if you plan on painting. You can do this by hand or using a sander, but the idea is to ensure the spackle is flush with the wall. Sanding will give your wall a smooth, uniform finish and help your paint and wallpaper stay put.

DIY is possible but presents risks of uneven surfaces or improper adhesion; professionals offer expertise to ensure a lasting finish.

The De Soto, IA homeowners’ guide to deck staining services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Deane Biermeier
•
May 3, 2026May 3, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Stain a Deck? [2026 Data]
The cost to stain a deck varies depending on its size, location, and type of stain. Keep reading to learn more about how much you might spend.
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does Deck Replacement or Repair Cost? [2026 Data]
Deck replacement costs depend on materials, any structural damage you need to fix, and more. This guide explores how much it costs to replace or repair a deck.
Deirdre Sullivan
•
May 5, 2026May 5, 2026
5 Deck Stain Problems and How to Fix Them
Don’t let deck stain problems steal the spotlight from your outdoor space. Here is how to fix these issues before your next backyard party.
Erica Lamberg
•
May 3, 2026May 3, 2026
How Often to Stain Your Deck and When to Do It
The best time to stain a deck is when it’s dry but not too sunny. How often you restain a deck depends on climate and wood type, but every two to three years is normal.
Deirdre Sullivan
•
May 2, 2026May 2, 2026
What Are the Pros and Cons of Staining a Deck?
A well-stained deck is beautiful and durable. Dive into the pros and cons of staining a deck to help your outdoor oasis stand the test of time.
Angi
•
May 21, 2026May 21, 2026
Who to Hire for Deck Staining and Painting Services
Not sure who to hire for deck staining and painting? Learn which pros to call, how they work, and how to choose the right fit.