Give Your Deck or Porch a Fresh New Look!

Your deck or porch is more than just an outdoor space—it’s an extension of your home. However, over time, sun, rain, and daily wear can leave the wood looking tired and faded. A fresh coat of paint or stain is all it takes to bring it back to life, making it a warm and inviting retreat once again. Cardinal Home Center is here to walk you through the process step by step!

Paint or Stain: Which One is Right for You?

Before you start, you’ll need to decide whether paint or stain is the best option for your space.

• Paint: If you’re looking for bold color and a smooth, uniform finish, paint is an excellent choice! It covers the wood grain fully, providing outstanding protection and a wide range of color options. We recommend Benjamin Moore’s Exterior Paint, which offers various choices, or Woodluxe Solid Stain (we can match most colors). Both deliver exceptional durability and resist fading, cracking, and peeling.
• Stain: If you prefer a more natural appearance, stain is perfect for enhancing the beauty of the wood grain while adding a layer of protection. Benjamin Moore’s WOODLUXE Exterior Stain penetrates deep into the wood, protecting against moisture and UV damage. You can select from transparent, semi-transparent, or solid finishes (we can match most colors) based on how much of the wood grain you want to display.

Prepping for Success

A little prep work goes a long way in ensuring your project turns out beautifully. Follow these steps before painting or staining:

• Clean the surface: Use a quality deck cleaner to remove dirt, mildew, and old, peeling coatings.
• Sand if necessary: If the surface is rough or has stubborn old coatings, light sanding can help create a smooth, even base. Even a new deck can benefit from light sanding to remove mill scale, allowing it to absorb stains more effectively.
• Check compatibility: If you’re re-staining, ensure your new stain works with the previous finish.
• Let it dry: Always let the wood dry completely before applying paint or stain.

Application Tips for a Professional Finish

Here’s how to get the best results when applying paint or stain:

• Pick the right day: Mild temperatures, low humidity, and no direct sunlight are ideal for even drying and adhesion. Avoid rainy forecasts!
• Use quality tools: Good brushes, rollers, and sprayers make application smoother and easier.
• Apply in thin coats: Follow the wood grain and apply even, thin layers. For stains, be sure to brush out any excess to avoid puddles.
• Sanding for better adhesion

Keep Your Deck Looking Great

To keep your deck or porch in top shape, give it a good cleaning at least once a year and check for signs of wear. A little maintenance now will help extend the life of your paint or stain, keeping your space looking fresh for years to come.

Ready to Get Started?

Visit Cardinal Home Center for expert advice and top-quality Benjamin Moore products. Whether you need help choosing colors or picking the perfect finish, our team is here to help. Stop by today and bring your outdoor oasis to life!