Get matched with top deck staining pros in Watertown, NY

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: How many coats of stain is too much?

• <div><p>Stain is meant to be absorbed by the porous wood, allowing some of the natural grain to show through. With that in mind, you don&rsquo;t want to add more stain than the wood can absorb, as you risk covering up its natural markings. Generally, two coats is the maximum you should do, although very dense hardwoods may only be able to take a single coat.</p></div>

Q: Should I stain my deck with a brush or rag?

• <div><p>Staining a deck with a rag is typically a better option than using a brush, as it helps the stain penetrate deeper into the wood. However, both brushes and rags are best reserved for detailed work because using these tools on an entire deck can require tediously crawling around on your hands and knees. A pad applicator, sprayer, or roller are preferred alternatives to applying stain over the majority of a deck. Use a rag for railings and other detailed work, and let the wood soak up as much of the stain as possible before wiping away drips or pools.</p></div>

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: What is the best way to protect a deck?

• <div><p>The best way to protect a deck is to prevent damage from UV light, water, mold, mildew, insects, and abrasive cleaning methods. Sweep regularly to prevent debris that hides bugs and traps moisture that can result in mold or mildew growth. Use a deck cleaner once a year to remove algae, mold, and mildew. Avoid using pressure washers on high, as they can damage the wood. Applying a deck sealant can protect the wood from UV and water damage, and adding shade can also reduce sunlight damage. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Staining pros in Watertown, NY

*The Angi rating for Deck Staining companies in Watertown, NY 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 Watertown, NY 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 July 01, 2024

Reviewed in July 2024
Our job was supposed to be completed in 1 day and it took 3 days. He's very attentive to our needs. We needed him to come bk and fix an area of deck where a screw was sticking out and we had to wait a bit. Was a little pricy but worth it.
JGP Carpentry and Construction
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Reviewed in August 2023
Met with Gary and could sense he had the talent and desire to do a great job. This was two connected decks all with trex decking and railings. There were other items included in the job. He completed all of them and did it all in a timely manner. He is talented and honest, qualities you really...
GS Construction
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Reviewed in July 2023
We have had trouble getting contractors in to do work, and Albert was a dream to work with. He did a standing seam metal roof for us, which looks beautiful. He was prompt, informative and did what he said he would do. He also replaced the the wood on our deck with composite. He is going to...
Tulley Contracting
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Reviewed in March 2023
Patricia was amazing! She was very professional and excellent at the job! She got stains out that I’ve been trying to do for months. I highly recommend and I will be returning
Combat Cleaners
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Reviewed in December 2022
Had an amazing experience with removal of an old deck and building a new one. They were punctual, professional, and worked with our budget! We were so impressed with the previous work that weâ re having them do an interior project next month. Highly recommend!!
Rameau Remodeling, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2020
Willett s construction was extremely helpful! Alex took his time to explain my options to me and helped put my mind at ease with our decision to add a deck. He is professional, talented and cares about his work and his customers. I would certainly recommend Willett s construction to anyone!
Sophia's Remodeling
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Reviewed in November 2018
The team was polite and worked fast. I was disappointed in the outcome and think I should have been told not to expect too much. I explained that the couch is old and stained but was not warned that it could not be cleaned.
American Restorators
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Reviewed in April 2016
Mike gave me a price of $4500 plus the cost of decking to replace my porch roof and some siding. He replaced 1 (one) 4x8 sheet of decking that I saw and charged me an additional $500 which I didn't care about because I was deploying the following week. I came back from deployment to find my roof...
B&B Construction and Roofing
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Reviewed in October 2015
Clean, efficient and 100 percent professional. Delivered more than promised. Stains and fading that were questionable completely removed. Floors are like new --- outstanding results. <br />
LOCY'S HARDWOOD FLOORS
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Reviewed in June 2015
He did not finish more than 50% of the things he was supposed to (kitchen, basement, master bath and closet, water heater, deck, new trim). Of the things he did do (painting, mounting cabinets, refinishing floor), the quality of the work was poor at best and most if it has to be redone. He was...
Kenneth Bodah
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Find Deck staining pros in Watertown

Elite Painting

4.2(

)

Exterior Home or Structure - Paint or StainExterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: LargeExterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: Medium

Serving Watertown, NY and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2010

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"From the reasonable estimate to the finish of our project, Elite Painting did a great job. The owner Ed was more than fair, and paid attention to to details. I have already recommended them to a friend, and would do it again and again. Our decks fencing and porches look amazing, and we’re very pleased."

+35

Response time2 days

Recommended by73%of homeowners

Exterior Home or Structure - Paint or StainExterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: LargeExterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: Medium

Serving Watertown, NY and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"He did a beautiful job. I have a two story home and everything was perfect"

Response time11 hrs

Response rate95%

3 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Tiger Luxury home improvement

4.8(

)

Exterior Home or Structure - Paint or StainExterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: LargeExterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: Medium

Serving Watertown, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2004

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Felipe and his team did extraordinary work. Both interior and exterior painting and staining, cabinet mounting, garage exterior refinishing. They understand how to find the safest and most correct way to do carpentry and any beautification you may need. They are lovely to work with and take true pride in their work. I felt like there was nothing they couldn't do at a very high level. You will not be disappointed."

+104

Recommended by95%of homeowners

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CUSTOM COATINGS PAINTING & HOME IMPROVEMENT

5.0(

)

Exterior Home or Structure - Paint or StainExterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: LargeExterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: Medium

Serving Watertown, NY and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

"Charles did a wonderful job on completing the job in a timely manner, and had great communication throughout. My husband and I are renters, so our landlord hired him but we will be sure to recommend this company to anyone looking for home improvements. Charles was very respectful, polite, and professional throughout the whole process and was greatly appreciated. And the room looks great, we are very happy!"

+90

1 neighbors recently requested a quote

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East Carthage Contracting

4.5(

)

Exterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: LargeExterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: Medium

Serving Watertown, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Steve and his helper were so thorough and spent 5 hours getting everything in great shape! It looks like I have a new roof!! I recommend them highly!"

Response time4 days

Recommended by80%of homeowners

Exterior Home or Structure - Paint or StainExterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: LargeExterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: Medium

Serving Watertown, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Great work for a reasonable price, didnâ t mess up my kitchen appliances and did the exact color I was asking for. Great customer service and good quotes for the work time it took."

+16

Response time30 mins

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Richards Construction & Flooring

5.0(

)

Exterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: LargeExterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: Medium

Serving Watertown, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2019

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"The guys came and cleaned the carpets and they look like new! The carpets smell fresh and we are very pleased!"

Response time5 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Hoselton Home Solutions

4.6(

)

Exterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: LargeExterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: Medium

Serving Watertown, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Very kind and prompt to respond. Would recommend!"

Response time6 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Exterior Home or Structure - Paint or StainExterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: LargeExterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: Medium

Serving Watertown, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Tight schedule got the work done on time."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Top Notch Contracting

5.0(

)

Exterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: LargeExterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain: Medium

Serving Watertown, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Did an amazing job on my brand new fence around My property"

+205

Response time2 days

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

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Showing 1-10 of 71

Deck Staining questions, answered by experts

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.

Stain is meant to be absorbed by the porous wood, allowing some of the natural grain to show through. With that in mind, you don’t want to add more stain than the wood can absorb, as you risk covering up its natural markings. Generally, two coats is the maximum you should do, although very dense hardwoods may only be able to take a single coat.

Staining a deck with a rag is typically a better option than using a brush, as it helps the stain penetrate deeper into the wood. However, both brushes and rags are best reserved for detailed work because using these tools on an entire deck can require tediously crawling around on your hands and knees. A pad applicator, sprayer, or roller are preferred alternatives to applying stain over the majority of a deck. Use a rag for railings and other detailed work, and let the wood soak up as much of the stain as possible before wiping away drips or pools.

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.

The best way to protect a deck is to prevent damage from UV light, water, mold, mildew, insects, and abrasive cleaning methods. Sweep regularly to prevent debris that hides bugs and traps moisture that can result in mold or mildew growth. Use a deck cleaner once a year to remove algae, mold, and mildew. Avoid using pressure washers on high, as they can damage the wood. Applying a deck sealant can protect the wood from UV and water damage, and adding shade can also reduce sunlight damage.

The Watertown, NY 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
•
Oct 1, 2026Oct 1, 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
•
Aug 31, 2026Aug 31, 2026
Cost to Seal or Waterproof a Deck [2026 Data]
Sealing a deck is important for protecting it against the elements. Find out the cost to seal a deck, whether you DIY or hire a pro to do the job.
Deirdre Sullivan
•
Jul 8, 2026Jul 8, 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
•
Jul 8, 2026Jul 8, 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.
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.
Deirdre Sullivan
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 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.

Get matched with top deck staining pros in Watertown, NY

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Need a pro for your deck staining project in Watertown, NY?

Small Projects Painting or Staining

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch Clean and Seal

Exterior Home or Structure Painting or Staining Service

Verified Reviews for Deck Staining pros in Watertown, NY

Find Deck staining pros in Watertown

The Watertown, NY homeowners’ guide to deck staining services

How Much Does It Cost to Stain a Deck? [2026 Data]

Cost to Seal or Waterproof a Deck [2026 Data]

5 Deck Stain Problems and How to Fix Them

How Often to Stain Your Deck and When to Do It

Who to Hire for Deck Staining and Painting Services

What Are the Pros and Cons of Staining a Deck?

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Get matched with top deck staining pros in Watertown, NY

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your deck staining project in Watertown, NY?

Small Projects Painting or Staining

Deck, Fence, Patio or Porch Clean and Seal

Exterior Home or Structure Painting or Staining Service

Verified Reviews for Deck Staining pros in Watertown, NY

Find Deck staining pros in Watertown

The Watertown, NY homeowners’ guide to deck staining services

How Much Does It Cost to Stain a Deck? [2026 Data]

Cost to Seal or Waterproof a Deck [2026 Data]

5 Deck Stain Problems and How to Fix Them

How Often to Stain Your Deck and When to Do It

Who to Hire for Deck Staining and Painting Services

What Are the Pros and Cons of Staining a Deck?

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