What's included
Deck staining starts with cleaning and, where needed, light sanding to open the wood grain so the stain actually absorbs instead of sitting on top. We check for rot, loose boards, and popped fasteners before staining, since sealing over damage just hides the problem.
- Pressure washing and wood cleaning
- Sanding of rough or weathered boards
- Minor repair of loose boards or fasteners before staining
- Solid or semi-transparent stain options
- Railings, stairs, and fencing included
Typical timeline
Most decks take one to two days including cleaning, dry time, and application. We schedule around weather so the stain cures properly rather than rushing it in.
Chicago & North Shore homes
Chicago-area decks take a real beating between summer sun and winter snow load. A stain that's rated for the climate, applied to properly prepped wood, is what actually holds up past one season.
Board replacement
Sometimes a deck needs boards before it needs stain. We replace rotted or split decking — including partial replacement, if only one section has gone — and match the new run to what's staying. New pressure-treated lumber has to dry out before it will take stain properly, so we'll tell you how long to wait rather than sealing in moisture.
Recent project: rooftop deck in Chicago
A garage-roof deck where the client wanted half the decking replaced and the sound half left in place.
Common questions
Can you replace just part of a deck?
Yes. If only one section has rotted or split, we replace that run and match it to the boards staying in place. It costs less than a full rebuild and is a common request.
How often should a deck be restained?
Depending on sun exposure and traffic, most decks in the Chicago area benefit from restaining every two to three years.
Solid or semi-transparent stain — which is better?
It depends on the wood's condition and the look you want. We'll walk through the trade-offs during your estimate.
Do you repair the deck before staining?
We handle minor repairs like loose boards and popped fasteners as part of prep. Larger structural repairs are scoped separately.
Your next step
Let’s make a plan for your home.
Tell us what you would like painted or repaired. We’ll follow up within one business day to discuss your free estimate.



