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Deck Staining questions, answered by experts

Limewash and whitewash are two techniques used to give brick a light, matte finish, but they differ in composition, application, and permanence. The best choice depends on your aesthetic goals and the specific surface.

Composition

  • Limewash: A natural and environmentally friendly option made from limestone, water, and sometimes pigments. It is breathable and soaks into porous surfaces like brick.

  • Whitewash: Traditionally made from lime, water, chalk, and binders, but a similar look can be achieved with watered-down white paint. It is paint-based and sits on top of the surface.

Appearance and Finish

  • Limewash: Provides a natural, textured appearance that allows the brick's character to show through. It offers a more traditional finish.

  • Whitewash: Creates a softer, more opaque finish, often used for a rustic or shabby-chic style.

Application and Permanence

  • Limewash: Is semi-permanent and can be removed, making it a good choice if you might want to change the look in the future. It requires more skill to apply and cannot be used on previously painted brick.

  • Whitewash: Is a more permanent solution. It is more forgiving to apply and can be used on painted brick. However, because it sits on the surface, it can trap moisture.

Ultimately, if you want a breathable, natural, and reversible finish for unpainted brick, limewash is a great option. If you need a more permanent, opaque coating that can be applied over painted surfaces, whitewash is the better choice. Whitewashing may also be more economical, costing approximately $1.40 to $4.20 per square foot.

Provided conditions are ideal, staining an entire deck should take as little as a couple of hours and up to a couple of days to apply and cure. Additional procedures, like sealing a deck or using additional treatments, may extend the project by a few additional days.

Hiring a contractor or professional deck refinisher is the best way to ensure your deck is properly stained. They have the expertise, tools, and supplies to do the job quickly and efficiently. However, staining a deck is a manageable task for most homeowners, and doing the job yourself can save money. Just keep in mind that DIY staining is a long process requiring physical strain, so it may not be the best option for everyone.

It’s necessary for paint to completely dry before exposure to rain, and that drying time varies by the type of paint used. Oil-based paint takes 6 to 8 hours to dry on average, meaning that’s the minimum time needed between the last brush stroke and the first raindrop. Latex paint dries faster at around 1 hour, and acrylic paint is even quicker, usually drying in about 30 minutes. If rain is in the forecast, check the paint manufacturer's details before laying on a new coat. 

Satin paint is generally considered a better choice for woodwork—including trim, baseboards, cabinets, and doors—than flatter finishes like eggshell or matte. Its soft sheen enhances architectural details and stands up well to frequent cleaning and daily wear. Compared to eggshell and matte finishes, satin is more durable for high-touch areas because it is less porous and doesn't absorb dirt as easily. Matte finishes, in particular, are prone to scuffs and are harder to clean, making them less practical for surfaces like doors and cabinets.

The San Marcos, TX homeowners’ guide to deck staining services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.