Get matched with top deck staining pros in Craigsville, WV

Choosing whether your deck should be lighter or darker than your house is a matter of personal preference, as there is no right or wrong answer. However, considering the pros and cons of each can help guide your decision. Darker colors are often chosen because they show less dirt, footprints, and marks from daily wear, making them easier to keep clean. On the other hand, lighter deck colors tend to stay cooler in the summer. From a design perspective, using a deck color that contrasts with your home's exterior can help make the deck a more defined and distinct feature. Consulting color theory can also make the process of choosing a complementary house and deck color combination easier.

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.

Yes, it's a good idea to sand the wall with fine-grit sandpaper after spackling, especially if you plan on painting. You can do this by hand or using a sander, but the idea is to ensure the spackle is flush with the wall. Sanding will give your wall a smooth, uniform finish and help your paint and wallpaper stay put.

It’s often best to spray on deck sealer. Sprayers can apply sealant more quickly and evenly than rolling while still enabling you to reach tight spaces. When using a sprayer, always use a low-pressure setting at a close distance to ensure an even application. Avoid using sprayers on windy days.