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Applying a sealer after staining is often recommended, especially for outdoor wood surfaces like decks or fences. It helps protect the wood from moisture, UV rays, and other elements, extending the life of the stain and preserving the wood's appearance. It also enhances the stain's durability and resistance to wear and tear. 

However, in some indoor applications, a sealer may not be necessary, depending on the type of stain used and the level of protection required. Always check the specific product recommendations and consider the wood's exposure and usage when deciding whether to apply a sealer after staining.

A wood deck needs an annual cleaning, plus refinishing every two to three years, which involves sanding the deck and applying stain or sealer. If you have a painted deck, you’ll need to repaint it every 10 years. You should also fix and repair loose or broken deck boards, nails, and screws. Cleaning your deck regularly and applying sealant protects the wood from the elements, water damage, rot, mildew, and fading from the sun.

Choosing the right product involves understanding deck material, desired finish, and local weather conditions. Opt for high-quality, weatherproof formulations ensuring long-term durability and appearance retention.

It’s important to make sure the wood on a new deck is properly seasoned. Seasoning a deck is simple: Once you build it (or have a pro do so), just leave it alone so it can acclimate to the environment. If you don’t give the deck proper seasoning time before staining, the stain can lock in any lingering moisture and cause mold, rot, and other moisture issues down the road. Give the wood at least four to eight weeks to season before you stain.