Applying A Deck Stain in Full Sun 5/5 (27)

This post was updated on May 1, 2024

How to Apply Deck Stain in Sun

How to Apply A Deck Stain in Full Sun

We appreciate your input here at Deckstainhelp.com as we continue to be your go-to source for the latest in deck restoration news and deck stain topics through 2024. See below for an article about How to Apply Deck Stain in the full sun of the day and the issues that could potentially arise.

Feel free to leave a comment or ask questions below.

These tips are for Transparent, Semi-Transparent,  Semi-Solid, and Solid (Opaque) deck coatings.

If you have a wood deck, at some point, you will have to stain and seal it. Staining your deck allows it to withstand the elements such as severe weather, foot traffic, and scuffing from heavy furniture.

Before you begin, make sure you plan ahead. Ensure there’s no rain in the forecast or excessive pollen levels that create an ideal environment for mold to grow. Please note that instructions for staining and sealing a deck will vary from product to product, so read the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results. Prep is key to the longevity of a deck stain so make sure to prep accordingly by cleaning and or stripping the deck surface. Always neutralize with a wood deck brightener if using a stain stripper or deck cleaner. This will ensure the wood is left in the proper pH balance prior to applying your deck stain coating.

Allow the wood to dry a few days before staining unless you are using Restore-A-Deck Wood Stain, which can be used the same day as the prep. Always follow the directions on the stain can for suggestions for the best tools to get the job done. Most deck stains and sealers can be applied using a brush, roller, stain pad, pump, or airless sprayer.  Apply the stain or sealer evenly and do not over-apply.

How to Apply Deck Stains and Sealers in the Sun

One common problem that many do not take into consideration is applying your deck stain in the heat of the day and or full sun. While the air temperature may be in the optimal range of 55-90 degrees Fahrenheit, the sun can drastically change the surface temperature of the wood. Using an infrared thermometer, we have tested wood temps in the shade, full sun and compared this to the air temperature and these are the results:

Air Temperature: 75 Fahrenheit

Wood Temperature in the Shade: 65 Fahrenheit

Wood Temperature in Full Sun: 100+ Fahrenheit

So what does this mean? Having an extremely hot surface temperature can lead to improper curing and drying of the deck stain. This could result in a blotchy application appearance, shiny spots, and could potentially lead to premature failure of the deck stain. This can happen with all deck stain types including water-based stains and oil-based stains.

So what can you do to avoid this potential application issue?

Stain Flash Dried in Sun – 1 Year Later

Water-Based Deck Stains

Water-based decks stains dry faster than oil-based stains. You will need to take precautions when applying to avoid flash drying of the water-based deck stain. If flash drying occurs, the stain may not fully soak into the wood grain but cure/dry on top of the wood grain. This may lead to premature wearing, especially in a cold-weather climate that has freeze/thaw fluctuations.

• If possible, try staining on a cloudy day or in the shade.
• Avoid staining at noon or at the hottest part of the day. Try early morning or late afternoon.
• Try Restore-A-Deck Wood Stain. This product can be applied to damp wood. Applying to damp wood will decrease the surface temperature of the wood and makes it much easier to apply as well.

Blotchy Stain Application in Full Sun

Oil-Based Deck Stains

Oil-based deck stains will be a little easier to apply in full sun but can still have issues. We notice issues with oil-based stains drying blotchy and uneven when applied in full sun as the solvents in the coatings evaporate extremely fast. This can also lead to premature failure of the coating as well if the stain is unable to fully soak into the wood.

• If possible, try staining on a cloudy day or in the shade.
• Avoid staining at noon or at the hottest part of the day. Try early morning or late afternoon.
• Try Armstrong Clark Wood Stain. This product can be applied in full sun. This product is a combination of curing and non-drying oils. This allows a much longer application time that avoids the full sun potential issues.  Apply and let dry for 4-12 hours. Do not back wipe.

Do you have any questions about how to apply a deck stain in the sun? We want to hear your thoughts. Feel free to leave us a comment below.

Scott Paul ~ Restoring Wood & Decks Since 1993 Owner

As an article and comment contributor to the site, Scott has been around the pressure washing industry since attending college. In 1993 he started his first company called Oakland Pressure Wash specializing in exterior pressure washing and deck staining. That company evolved into OPW L.L.C. shortly thereafter concentrating more on exterior wood and deck restoration. Scott and his Deck Cleaning Michigan company have restored over 10,000 decks in the Metro Detroit area since the early years. He has become an authority in the deck restoration industry and has contributed to numerous wood restoration forums and informative sites. All the products he suggests through this site are sold through online sites and in retail stores, allowing the consumer to choose their own means of purchase. Scott’s eCommerce sites do sell many top brands he endorses and if you appreciate any of the help he has offered then feel free to purchase from one of them.

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