How we stain

Our Wood Staining Process

Professional staining starts long before the stain is applied. From preparing and cleaning the wood to protecting the surrounding property and applying the finish, we follow a careful process designed to help your outdoor wood look its best.

Our Process

From Your First Call to the Finished Project

From your first estimate to the finished project, our team guides you through every step. Behind the scenes, our crew follows a consistent preparation and application process designed to give your outdoor wood the care and finish it needs.

Request Your Free Estimate

Fill out our estimate form or give us a call. Tell us what you'd like to have stained, and we'll help you determine the best next step.

Get a Clear Estimate & Choose Your Color

We'll review your project, answer your questions, and provide an estimate covering labor and materials. We'll also show you stain samples and photos from completed projects to help you find the right color.

Schedule Your Project

Once you're ready to move forward, we'll find a convenient date and let you know what to expect before our crew arrives.

Prep, Clean & Protect

Our crew prepares the work area, cleans the wood, allows it to dry, and protects the surrounding property before staining begins.

Apply the Stain

Once the wood is properly prepared, we apply the stain in 2–3 wet coats, or as much as the wood will take, depending on the surface.

Clean Up & Enjoy the Results

Our crew cleans the work area and handles the finishing details, leaving you with refreshed outdoor wood and a completed project.

Cleaning the Wood
Cleaning the Wood

How We Clean Outdoor Wood

Cleaning prepares the wood for staining by removing buildup from the surface and helping create a clean foundation for the application. Depending on the condition of the wood, we may use Hypo Wash or Power Wash.

Hypo Wash

Hypo Wash combines a cleaning solution with water to remove mold, mildew, and grime from the wood. It is designed to clean the wood without killing plants, but it does not remove sprinkler marks.

Power Wash

Power washing uses water and pressure to clean the surface of the wood. It is not intended to strip the wood down to bare wood and does not remove sprinkler marks.

The cleaning method is selected based on the surface and its condition rather than using the same approach for every project.

The Wood Needs to Dry Before Staining
After Cleaning

The Wood Needs to Dry Before Staining

Once the wood has been cleaned, it needs to dry before staining begins. Allowing the surface to dry properly gives the crew the right conditions to move on to the next stage of the process.

Drying time can vary depending on weather and site conditions, so staining does not always begin immediately after cleaning.

Sprinklers should be turned off at least 24 hours before and after staining.

Property Protection Generated Image
Property Protection

Protecting the Areas Around Your Project

Before staining begins, we take steps to protect the areas and items around the surface being serviced. Anything that cannot be moved is covered or shielded to the best of our ability.

Landscaping

Plants and landscaping around the work area are considered when preparing the site.

Patios & Driveways

Surrounding hard surfaces are protected from stain and other materials used during the work.

Pools, Rocks & Other Items

Items around the work area that cannot be moved will be covered or shielded to the best of the crew’s ability.

Protecting the surrounding area is part of preparing the site for staining, not something left until the end of the project.

Applying the Stain
Stain Application

Applying the Stain

Once the wood is clean, dry, and properly prepared, our crew moves on to the staining process. We apply the selected stain to the surface according to the condition and needs of the wood.

2–3 Wet Coats, or as Much as the Wood Will Take

The number of coats is not the same for every project. We apply 2–3 wet coats, or as much as the wood will take, depending on the surface.

The goal is to apply the stain consistently across the surface while allowing the wood to absorb the product it needs.

After Staining Cleanup Generated Image
After Staining

Cleaning Up After the Work

The crew cleans up after the application, including stain overspray and fence poles where applicable, and makes sure the work area is left in order.

The project is not finished when the stain is applied. Cleanup and finishing details are part of completing the work.

Weather & Timing

When Weather Affects the Schedule

Outdoor staining depends on suitable conditions. Rain, wind, and the amount of time the wood needs to dry can affect when the crew can begin or continue the work. Because of this, project dates and arrival times may sometimes need to change.

Rain & Wind

Our crews do not work in the rain, and staining cannot be completed when winds exceed 15 mph. If conditions are not suitable, the project may need to be rescheduled.

Drying Conditions

After cleaning, the wood needs to dry before staining can begin. Weather conditions can affect how quickly the surface is ready for the next stage.

Sprinklers

Sprinklers should be turned off at least 24 hours before and after staining to help keep the wood dry during the process.

Arrival Times

Crew arrival times are estimates rather than exact appointment times. Weather, the previous day's work, and other project conditions can affect the schedule.

What to Expect

A Straightforward Experience From Start to Finish

Once your project is scheduled, we'll let you know what to expect before the crew arrives and what you need to prepare.

01

Before We Arrive

You'll receive the information you need to prepare the property for the crew. Personal items should be moved, gates should be accessible, landscaping should be trimmed back, and sprinklers should be turned off as required.

02

While We Work

You do not need to be home while the crew works. As long as the team has the necessary access and utilities, the project can move forward while you go about your day. Pets should be kept away from the work area for their safety.

03

When We're Done

Once the work is complete, we'll make sure you know the project is finished and the area is ready for you to use again.

See Us at Work

See How We Stain

See the process from preparation and cleaning to property protection, stain application, and the finished result. This video gives you a closer look at how our crew approaches a wood staining project.

Ready to Get Started?

Let's Talk About Your Wood Staining Project

Tell us about your fence, deck, pergola, or other outdoor wood project. We'll review the details, answer your questions, and help you take the next step toward a professional stain finish.

Let's Talk About Your Project

Have questions about staining your outdoor wood or want to discuss your project before getting started? Give us a call or reach out by email.

Business Hours Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Tell Us About Your Project

Share a few details about your project and we'll use them to better understand what you're looking to have stained.

Free Estimate