What Happens If I Don't Stain My Deck?

Q: What happens if I don’t stain my deck? What types of visible signs and long-lasting effects are seen when left untreated?

A: We highly recommend putting your deck on a 3 to 4-year maintenance program. As you would do with your lawn or car, regular maintenance will keep your deck looking like new and uncover potential hazards before they become a problem.

However, choosing not to stain or paint the deck is simply a preference of the homeowner. The effects that can occur due to a lack of treatment are aesthetic in nature. After 6 months, the wood will start to lose its color and will begin to fade. Ultimately it will fade to grey or silver. This is not a problem in and of itself, and some people prefer this look for their decks.

You will see what is called "checking of the wood". This is where the wood begins to form small surface cracks or takes on a slightly scaly appearance. This checking occurs when the wood becomes dried out and is only a problem if this happens very quickly. Applying a transparent finish to the deck helps to protect it from the elements, and allows the wood to resist stains and dirt from setting in.

Here are some Benefits for Staining that we put together for you.