This post was updated on April 25, 2023
Staining a New Wood Deck Video
Over the past 10+ years, we have numerous questions asked on the site, but none was asked more than “What stain or prep is needed for my new deck”? There seems to be an opinion among homeowners that it is okay to stain new wood right away or even before the deck is installed. This is incorrect for most wood types and stain brands. In this video, we will cover the required prep and waiting period needed before applying a stain for the first time.

New Smooth Wood
Best New Wood Deck Stain Water-Based | Best Applying New Wood Deck Stain | Best New Wood Deck Stain Oil-Based |
Months to Weather New Wood: 3 months for both semi-transparent and solid stain colors. | Months to Weather New Wood: 2-3 months for transparent and semi-transparent colors. 12 months for semi-solid. | Months to Weather New Wood: 4 - 12 months for all TWP Series and Colors. |
Deck Stain Help & Questions
- Can You Paint Over Deck Stain
- Cleaning Deck Before Staining
- Lowes Stain Colors
- How Long to Wait to Stain a New Deck
- How Much Stain Do I Need
- Stain Temperature
- Oil Deck Stain
- Best Solid Color Deck Stain
- Deck Stain
- Staining New Pressure Treated Wood
- Wood Deck Sealer
- How to Prep a New Deck For Staining
Stain Reviews & Comparisons

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.