How do I know when it’s time to restain my deck?

• <div><p>You’ll need to restrain your deck when you notice fading, cracking, peeling, or mold and mildew over a moderate to large area, or when it’s become especially difficult to clean. As for <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-often-should-you-stain-your-deck.htm">how often to stain a deck</a>, plan to do it every two to three years or whenever you start to notice extended damage. </p></div>

Is it worth sanding a deck?

• <div><p>It is definitely worth sanding a deck to ensure the wood absorbs new stain. Sanding a deck removes the outer layers of aging wood, allowing the stain to penetrate. It also gives a fresh look to the entire surface as part of the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-refinish-deck.htm">deck refinishing process</a>. Without sanding, your stain or sealant is less likely to absorb into the wood. While sanding a deck is a time-intensive project, the rewards are noticeable and long-lasting.</p></div>

Should I stain the deck in the morning or afternoon?

• <div><p>Hot, intense sunshine can cause your stain to dry too quickly, which could lead it to look uneven or patchy. If you’re staining the deck during hotter months, it’s best to do it in the morning or evening once the wood has had time to cool down. If you’re staining in cooler weather with less sunshine, the time of day won’t make as much of a difference.</p></div>

Get matched with top deck staining pros in Onida, SD

Q: How do I know when it’s time to restain my deck?

• <div><p>You&rsquo;ll need to restrain your deck when you notice fading, cracking, peeling, or mold and mildew over a moderate to large area, or when it&rsquo;s become especially difficult to clean. As for <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-often-should-you-stain-your-deck.htm">how often to stain a deck</a>, plan to do it every two to three years or whenever you start to notice extended damage. </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: Is it better to stain or paint a pool deck?

• <div><p>Deciding whether to stain or paint a pool deck depends on your budget, desired look, and the deck's material. Both options can work. Paint offers a wider variety of color options, provides excellent water resistance, and can last longer. However, it requires a primer and can eventually fade or peel. Stain is often cheaper, easier to apply, and penetrates the wood for a more natural look and longer-lasting finish. It also has great water resistance. The downsides are fewer color options and the need for a sealant. The choice can also depend on the deck material; for example, staining may be a better option for concrete as it bonds well and lasts longer than paint.</p></div>

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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 Onida, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Tanya and her crew are professional and get the job done."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Hampton Enterprise LLC

3.7(

)

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

Serving Onida, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 1989

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"They were good. They were pretty fast and came on time. My overall experience with them has been good."

Recommended by60%of homeowners

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TH Painting and Designs

New to Angi

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

Serving Onida, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

TH's Paining and Designs is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.\n

Response time2 hrs

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Custom Cut Construction

New to Angi

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

Serving Onida, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2015

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Here at Custom Cut Construction we are dedicated to providing you with exceptional customer service. We specialize in all areas of siding from vinyl to metal to wood we�ll be there to make sure it�s done right the first time. We can also take care of your framing installs and repairs as well as exterior paint work. We have just opened business this year and are backed by over 20 year�s experience. Please give us a call today and set up your free no obligation estimate.

Response time4 hrs

Response rate100%

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Goudy Painting

New to Angi

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

Serving Onida, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2022

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

At company , our company is based on the belief that our customers' needs are of the utmost importance. Our team is committed to meeting those needs. We welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and deliver you the best service. No job is too big or too small for our experienced team. Call today for a quote.\n

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

Serving Onida, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 1999

Free estimates

David Ferguson's construction business is dedicated to quality and outstanding customer service. Our job is to provide you with quality service at a great price. Please don't wait call us today.

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Handyman construction

New to Angi

Exterior Home or Structure - Paint or Stain

Serving Onida, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Professional, timely, efficient and affordable debris. I get it done with a great attitude.

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Juan Plasencia

New to Angi

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

Serving Onida, SD and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

I pride myself on my professionalism, as well as my ability to complete\nevery job to the homeowner's total satisfaction. I never leave a job\nunfinished, or a homeowner not 100% satisfied with my level of service -\nCall today!

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Deck Staining questions, answered by experts

You’ll need to restrain your deck when you notice fading, cracking, peeling, or mold and mildew over a moderate to large area, or when it’s become especially difficult to clean. As for how often to stain a deck, plan to do it every two to three years or whenever you start to notice extended damage.

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.

Deciding whether to stain or paint a pool deck depends on your budget, desired look, and the deck's material. Both options can work. Paint offers a wider variety of color options, provides excellent water resistance, and can last longer. However, it requires a primer and can eventually fade or peel. Stain is often cheaper, easier to apply, and penetrates the wood for a more natural look and longer-lasting finish. It also has great water resistance. The downsides are fewer color options and the need for a sealant. The choice can also depend on the deck material; for example, staining may be a better option for concrete as it bonds well and lasts longer than paint.

It is definitely worth sanding a deck to ensure the wood absorbs new stain. Sanding a deck removes the outer layers of aging wood, allowing the stain to penetrate. It also gives a fresh look to the entire surface as part of the deck refinishing process. Without sanding, your stain or sealant is less likely to absorb into the wood. While sanding a deck is a time-intensive project, the rewards are noticeable and long-lasting.

Hot, intense sunshine can cause your stain to dry too quickly, which could lead it to look uneven or patchy. If you’re staining the deck during hotter months, it’s best to do it in the morning or evening once the wood has had time to cool down. If you’re staining in cooler weather with less sunshine, the time of day won’t make as much of a difference.

The Onida, SD 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.
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.
Audrey Bruno
•
Apr 10, 2026Apr 10, 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.