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Unless you’re using a 2-in-1 formula or painting over an existing coat of paint, it pays to apply a coat of primer ahead of your new paint. Decks see a lot of footfall and exposure to extreme and sudden temperature changes and moisture levels. The primer promotes better paint adhesion, moisture repellency, and a smoother finish, which means you’ll often need fewer coats of paint. 

Yes, staining or sealing a cedar deck or fence is highly recommended to extend its lifespan, typically by five to 10 years. While cedar is naturally resistant to mold and mildew, it can still fall victim to moisture, sun exposure, and rot over time. Applying a treatment creates a protective shield that helps prevent splintering, fading, and decay, preserving the wood's strength and appearance. A combination stain and sealer often provides the best protection, as it soaks into the wood grain rather than just sitting on top. This offers superior defense against UV damage and rot and lasts longer than a sealer alone. To maintain the wood's natural look, consider using a near-translucent stain. You should plan to reapply the stain or sealer every two to three years.

Wood stain is not flammable after it dries. The solvent in wood stain is what causes the liquid form to be highly flammable, but the stain drying process involves the solvents dissolving, which leaves behind a non-flammable product on your wood project. Wood stain is, however, flammable before you apply it, so you should always store partially full cans and used wood stain rags away from sources of heat and open flames.

Avoid using cleaning products that are abrasive or contain bleach or acidic components on composite decking to avoid discoloration. Early-generation Trex decking isn’t designed to handle pressure washer cleaning—and if you use them on second-generation boards, always use a low setting to avoid the risk of damage that can risk voiding your warranty.