Are your outdoor spaces looking a bit tired after the long winter months? It might be time for a seasonal reset. A few DIY stain projects can quickly refresh decks, fences and outdoor wood furniture to help you welcome the warmer weather with an updated look.
Whether you're looking for a short weekend activity or a total transformation, choosing the right stain for your project can make all the difference. Here are a few ideas you can use to refresh your home's exterior this spring.
Prep work and stain selection
When wood is exposed to water and freezing temperatures, the harsh conditions can lead to warpage, cracks or mildew. Adding exterior stain to your wood surfaces is a beautiful and functional upgrade, providing protection while elevating the appearance of your outdoor space.
PITTSBURGH PAINTS & STAINS® ULTRA® TRUE SEAL™ is an ideal choice for DIYers, whether you have a lot of experience with wood stains or it's your first time. It is formulated with waterproofing and mildew resistance to safeguard wood from damage. Designed for easy application, it levels out mistakes for flawless color in one coat with no streaks or runs.
Before you begin, though, it's important to take the time to properly prepare wood surfaces and think about what type of finish you want.
- Prep wood surfaces. Before starting any wood project, proper surface preparation is essential. Cleaning and prepping wood will ensure that stains apply evenly and last longer. A specialized wood cleaner, such as Pittsburgh Paints & Stains Deck Cleaner, will help lift dirt and effectively prepare the surface for staining.
- Choose the right opacity and color. A semi-transparent finish allows the natural grain of the wood to show through the new tint, while a solid stain is more opaque and deposits more color. Warm, natural-inspired tones are trending for wood finishes. Try a darker neutral brown shade in outdoor settings to add contrast with potted flowers and greenery.
- Use a product that makes the job easier. Different types of stains have varying application requirements. Pick a stain that makes it easier to get smooth, even results to avoid seeing any streaks left on that deck every time you go outside.
Tips for decks and fences
For larger areas like decks and fences, stain is a great way to make a big visual impact in a short amount of time. Pittsburgh Paints & Stains Ultra True Seal is an oil-based stain that meets VOC requirements and is a great option for outdoor wood structures. Fortified with PENETROL®, this stain has excellent penetration into the wood surfaces that creates a more durable finish than water-based stains. Using a stain-and-sealer-in-one product can also save time while still delivering long-lasting results.
With a hard-working, mistake-proof stain like Pittsburgh Paints & Stains Ultra True Seal, you can confidently tackle any size staining project. It provides up to four years of protection for decks and five years for fences and siding. The one coat formula does the heavy lifting for you so you can spend less time staining and more time enjoying the outdoors.
Staining outdoor furniture
Refreshing wood furniture such as chairs, benches and tables will also help give your outdoor spaces a brand-new feel. A fresh coat of stain can restore color that has been bleached away by sun exposure, or you can use it to change the color for a fresh, modern look. Pittsburgh Paints & Stains Ultra True Seal is available in eight ready-mixed colors, making it easy to match any aesthetic.
Your spring refresh doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. With the right stain, you can get professional-looking results that transform your space and provide lasting protection.
Find Pittsburgh Paints & Stains products at your local Menards.
