Get matched with top deck staining pros in Susquehanna, PA

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: What is the most durable pool deck coating?

• <div><p>You have a couple of options when choosing a durable pool deck coating. Epoxy is common and offers excellent stain and water resistance. Epoxy also withstands high temperatures and UV lighting, making it ideal for sunny spots. You can also add a coating to cement, which significantly lowers the temperature of the concrete, is environmentally safe, and makes cleanup a breeze.</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: When is the best time to paint a deck?

• <div><p>The best time to paint your deck is when temperatures are neither too cold (below 60 degrees) nor too hot (above 85 degrees). Always paint your deck when there&rsquo;s no risk of rain. For fast-drying paint like acrylic or latex, ensure your deck can dry for at least four hours. Oil-based paints take longer to dry and may require 48 hours to completely cure.</p></div>

Q: Should I seal my deck after painting?

• <div><p>You don't need to seal your deck after painting it because most exterior paints are waterproof and weather-resistant. While stealing is not necessary, it can add an additional layer of protection. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Deck Staining pros in Susquehanna, PA

*The Angi rating for Deck Staining companies in Susquehanna, PA 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 Susquehanna, PA 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 April 18, 2024

Reviewed in April 2024
Joe Smith from modern scapes and Hydroseeding did an absolutely fantastic job replacing my old deck. He was always in contact with me with any questions he had about what I wanted. It was done in a timely fashion and it is a beautiful well built sturdy deck. I highly recommend him for anybody...
Modern Scapes and Hydroseeding
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Reviewed in July 2023
Very professional. The crew worked very hard through hot summer temperatures to get the job done. We are very happy with the new look of our house, garage & decks. Only a few minor complaints - some damage to flowers around the house & garage, and some problems with scheduling (partly...
Snyder's Painting
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Reviewed in August 2021
Joe did a great job on my house and decks. Was very pleased and happy. Very professional.
Joe's Power Washing Solutions
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Reviewed in August 2021
The Super intendant was always available and their crew did a Fabulous job on our Now very large deck. I highly recommend this Company for all of my remodel needs!!!
RPC Custom Builders LLC
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Reviewed in June 2021
Northern Tier Hyrdro Wash was a pleasure to work with. They arrived right on time, were energetic and customer focused. This family run business were reasonable, looked over the job, made the necessary adjustments for the one older portion of the deck, covered the rose bushes and did a great...
Northern Tier Hydro Wash
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Reviewed in May 2020
D.E.Nolan has done numerous construction projects for me over the years. Last year he completely remodeled our kitchen and the end result is amazing! It is beautiful and functions so well. He also remodeled 2 rooms in my place of business and put down all new floors and put in a new bathroom...
D.E. NOLAN
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Reviewed in October 2018
Great carpet guy. Took stain out of couch and rug. Highly recommended.
Christys Carpet Steaming and Cleaning Co
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Reviewed in November 2017
Working with Emilio and his team was an absolute pleasure! Emilio always followed up immediately with any questions and his team did an outstanding job painting my entire home - including the garage, staining the deck and power washing the entire exterior. I gladly recommend this company with...
All Seasons Painting & Powerwashing
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Reviewed in December 2015
Throughout the quoting process and the job, Terrence ("Mr. Decorative Concrete" ) was responsive to our questions and informative. He arrived when expected and stayed until the job was completed. He and his crew worked hard. We chose a multicolor acid stain with etched tile pattern in...
Terrence Alden Mr. Decorative Concrete
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Reviewed in April 2014
Jon did a great job on our deck remodel. He helped us by talking to our insurance company prior to the job and helped us navigate the Homeowners insurance quote. He repaired dry rot and replaced our pergola and the work completed looks fantastic. Jon and crew were prompt, hard working, and...
Russo Remodeling
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Find Deck staining pros in Susquehanna

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

Serving Susquehanna, PA and surrounding areas

In business since 1999

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Excellent job, very professional, courteous, and timely. Rob handled everything on my project, the job site was always very clean and tidy throughout. He was punctualand reliable. Most important, he's an extremely nice guy. He's one of those type of people that you feel like you have known forever after having just met him. He is now my go to guy!"

Recommended by96%of homeowners

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

Serving Susquehanna, PA and surrounding areas

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"DPO did a great job on our siding project. Timely, quick and efficient. Super easy to communicate with and answered all of our questions. Would absolutely hire again for any of our home needs!"

+46

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 Susquehanna, PA and surrounding areas

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"He was prompt and quick. He did a great job."

+15

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Elite Professional Painting

4.3(

)

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

Serving Susquehanna, PA and surrounding areas

In business since 2009

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"It went very well they were on time, courteous,polite they provided everything and they have a reasonable price ."

+65

Recommended by83%of homeowners

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Welcome Home Moving Services

5.0(

)

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

Serving Susquehanna, PA 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

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A Good Fix Handyman Service

5.0(

)

Exterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain

Serving Susquehanna, PA and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

"He was punctual, did a good job and it was a fair price."

Response time2 days

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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PARLOR CITY DRYWALL & PAINTING, Inc.

3.8(

)

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

Serving Susquehanna, PA and surrounding areas

In business since 1984

Free estimates

"Estimate given and contract signed. All concerns were handled by company rep promptly. Workers were respectful, nice to have working in our home. Overall project went well."

+14

Recommended by75%of homeowners

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Robert Davies Home Improvement

4.3(

)

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

Serving Susquehanna, PA and surrounding areas

In business since 1990

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Everything was done just like I wanted. Bob is very professional. He handled the small stuff really well and I would hire him for larger projects as well because he's a general contractor.
"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Moore and brown pressure washing service

4.3(

)

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

Serving Susquehanna, PA and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

"The service is very good, there were professionals and travel to finish the job, we will recommend them."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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KMK Custom Construction

3.8(

)

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

Serving Susquehanna, PA and surrounding areas

In business since 2001

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Thank you for coming and looking at the area for the fencing, I appreciated your time. I did expect to have a response for the estimate other than the rough estimate done at my house, as we had discussed with alternative materials. As I did not get a further response and needed to do something with my fencing needs, I had to look else where and have managed a solution which has been equitable to me. I would not normally rate you further as I felt that we really weren't to the stage of my being able to rate performance, nor be able to tell further if I would recommend you to a friend. Only answered to be able to process the form."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Showing 1-10 of 21

Deck Staining questions, answered by experts

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.

You have a couple of options when choosing a durable pool deck coating. Epoxy is common and offers excellent stain and water resistance. Epoxy also withstands high temperatures and UV lighting, making it ideal for sunny spots. You can also add a coating to cement, which significantly lowers the temperature of the concrete, is environmentally safe, and makes cleanup a breeze.

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.

The best time to paint your deck is when temperatures are neither too cold (below 60 degrees) nor too hot (above 85 degrees). Always paint your deck when there’s no risk of rain. For fast-drying paint like acrylic or latex, ensure your deck can dry for at least four hours. Oil-based paints take longer to dry and may require 48 hours to completely cure.

You don't need to seal your deck after painting it because most exterior paints are waterproof and weather-resistant. While stealing is not necessary, it can add an additional layer of protection.

The Susquehanna, PA 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
•
Jul 8, 2026Jul 8, 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.
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.
Audrey Bruno
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
When Is the Best Time to Stain a Deck?
There isn’t just one best time to stain a deck but a couple, and which you choose will depend on factors like local climate and materials used.