How many days does it take to refinish a deck?

Refinishing a deck can breathe new life into your outdoor space, but one common question is: how long does the process take? The time it takes to refinish a deck depends on several factors, including the deck refinishing bend, the condition of the wood, and the weather conditions. Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved and the estimated timeline for each.

1. Cleaning the Deck: 1-2 Days

The first step in refinishing is to clean the deck thoroughly. Whether you use a pressure washer or a deck cleaning solution, the deck needs to be free of dirt, grime, and any previous stains. Depending on the size of your deck, this process can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day. After cleaning, the deck should dry for at least 24-48 hours to ensure it’s completely moisture-free before moving to the next step.

2. Sanding the Deck: 1-2 Days

Once the deck is clean and dry, the next step is sanding. Sanding smooths out any rough areas and removes leftover stains or paint. The time required for sanding depends on the deck’s size and the amount of old finish that needs to be removed. A small to medium deck might take a day, while larger decks or those in rough condition may require up to two days. A power sander can speed up this process significantly.

3. Making Repairs: 1 Day

Before applying a new finish, check for any damage like loose boards or protruding nails. Replacing boards or making minor repairs should take a few hours, but it could extend to a day if there’s significant damage. This step ensures a smooth and safe surface for staining or sealing.

4. Staining or Sealing: 1 Day

Applying the stain or sealer typically takes a day. The method you choose—whether it’s brushing, rolling, or spraying—affects the speed, but most people can finish applying stain to a standard deck in a day. Be sure to follow the grain of the wood for the best results, and apply evenly to avoid streaks or patches.

5. Drying and Curing Time: 1-3 Days

After applying the stain or sealer, it’s crucial to let the deck dry completely before using it. Most stains need at least 24-48 hours to dry to the touch, but full curing may take 2-3 days. Check the product label for specific drying times, as weather conditions like humidity or rain can extend this phase.

Total Time: 4-8 Days

In total, refinishing a deck generally takes 4-8 days, including drying time. This time frame includes the cleaning, sanding, repairs, application of stain, and drying. Smaller decks or those in good condition may be completed on the shorter end of this range, while larger or more damaged decks might take closer to the full week.

Conclusion

Refinishing a deck is a multi-step process that requires patience, but the results are worth the time investment in Painters Bend Oregon. Plan for about a week to complete the job, allowing enough time for each step and the necessary drying period to ensure a long-lasting, beautiful finish.