Allow the deck to dry for about 2 days without any rain on it and then proceed to finish the project.
- Select a penetrating clear or tinted sealer or solid color stain as you desire.
- Buy a clear or semi-transparent stain if you want the grain of the wood to show through.
- Buy a solid stain if you want the finish to look like paint. Just don't use paint.
- DO: Make sure the stain or sealer is labeled "Water Repellent"
- DO NOT: Use clear finishes such as polyurethane or varnish as they will degrade under the sun's UV rays.
- Using a roller for the large flat deck board areas, roll on the sealer or stain. The wood may be very porous at this point and may absorb the sealer or stain quickly so apply generously.
- For railings, balusters and in between deck boards a roller won't work so use a brush as required.
- Let dry and then fire up the grill!
