Do you need to prime composite decking before painting?

• <div><p>It’s best to prime composite decking before painting. This promotes better paint adhesion, helps create a smooth finish, and can mean the paint job will last longer. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application, allow ample primer drying time before painting (typically 24 to 48 hours), and thoroughly clean the deck boards to promote the best adhesion. </p></div>

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Q: Does wood stain go bad?

• <div><p>Wood stain does go bad, but it will last in the can for between three and six years, provided you use proper storage techniques. Storing wood stain in open containers or in extremely low or high temperatures will cause your wood stain to become unusable much more quickly. Water- and latex-based wood stains typically last for just two to four years, while oil-based wood stains can last for three to six years. </p></div>

Q: Do you need to prime composite decking before painting?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s best to prime composite decking before painting. This promotes better paint adhesion, helps create a smooth finish, and can mean the paint job will last longer. Always follow the manufacturer&rsquo;s instructions for application, allow ample primer drying time before painting (typically 24 to 48 hours), and thoroughly clean the deck boards to promote the best adhesion. </p></div>

Q: How do you take care of painted decking?

• <div><p>Painted decks typically require a new coat about once every ten years. In between new coats, it's best to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/10-tips-keeping-your-wooden-deck-looking-new.htm">maintain your deck</a> by regularly removing debris, washing it down with non-abrasive cleaners, and staying ahead of structural issues, such as loose boards and rotting wood. In some cases, painting a small section of your deck affected by damage or the sun can lower your costs and workload.</p></div>

Q: Should you stain your deck or seal it for better protection?

• <div><p>Sealing a deck is better than staining in terms of protection. Stain on its own does nothing but change the color of wood, while sealing protects wood from moisture, insects, and UV damage. If you want to stain your wood, consider a stain-and-sealant-in-one to change your deck's appearance while protecting it from the elements. Reapply stain and sealant once every year or two.</p></div>

Q: What is the best exterior paint for extreme weather?

• <div><p>Acrylic paint is one of the best types of paint to use on your home's exterior. It's a durable paint that is also heat- and cold-resistant. While oil-based paint is also durable, it's prone to fading, making it not as good of an option if you live someplace with extremely high heat. In colder regions, oil-based and alkyd paints become more viscous, which makes it harder to apply the paint.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Staining pros in Alpena, MI

*The Angi rating for Deck Staining companies in Alpena, MI 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 Alpena, MI 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 October 30, 2025

Reviewed in June 2025
Evergreen was amazing from start to finish. Dominic came out and gave us not only a fair price but also gave us multiple options to achieve the design and space we wanted. The crew was on time and worked very hard to finish our deck in a timely manner. The craftsmanship and expierence was...
Evergreen Deck Builders LLC
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Reviewed in December 2024
Kevin and company were able to grind, patch cracks, stain and seal my 30 year old, 1350 sqft concrete basement floor in less than two days. The result is beautiful! I also had Kevin epoxy my 30 year old, 2-car garage concrete floor with amazing results that all visitors have complemented when...
Webb Industries, LLC
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Reviewed in September 2024
From start to finish they were very professional and went above and beyond what I expected. The deck turned out great and I get compliments from everyone that has seen it. They definately have made a very happy customer out of me and will definitely hire them for future projects.
TSP Painting LLC
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Reviewed in February 2024
i had stones handyman service come and pressure wash my house and deck , he did a excellent job and greatly exceeded my expectations. he was on time very polite very organized and i would highly recommend his services.
Stones Handyman Service
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Reviewed in March 2021
They removed shoe molding, hung plastic to secure the rooms, sanded the floors, applied the stain and then the coats of poly. (over a 3 day period). They always let me know before they arrived each day and updated me on their progress and what would still need to be done. The floors look great....
Unique Hardwood Floor LLC
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Reviewed in July 2017
Carl is a great guy and someone who knows what he's doing. He was friendly, attentive, adaptive, and responsive during the entire process. He completed the deck on time and brought my vision to life better than I could imagine. I'd highly recommend him to friends and family.
CARL ZATSICK CARPENTRY
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Reviewed in August 2014
They did a good job on the carpet and couch. Even threw in a free stain removal which was nice. I would recommend the service.
CLEANTECH CARPET CLEANING
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Reviewed in June 2014
We are usually do it yourself people but our deck is huge and needed serious attention. I am so glad we found Gary. Gary Vargas is one of the hardest workers I have ever seen. He came early and left late, never seemed to take a break, just kept working. He was well prepared with all the...
American Cleaning Services
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Reviewed in June 2011
They came and cleaned the carpet. When I woke up the next morning my house smelled terrible. There were new stains on my carpet. I called and left a few messages with him. He refuses to return my calls. I have my own carpet cleaner and went over it twice. We even had another professional company...
Noah's ARK Rainbow Carpet
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