Frequently Asked Questions About Deck Staining & Maintenance
Find answers to the most common questions we hear from homeowners about deck care, staining, building, and our process.
General Questions
We specialize in five core services: deck staining, deck refinishing, deck resurfacing, deck building, and deck cleaning. Each service includes thorough preparation, premium products, and professional workmanship to ensure lasting, beautiful results.
We proudly serve Southwestern Ontario including London, Woodstock, St Thomas, Strathroy, Brantford, Hamilton, and surrounding communities. If you are unsure whether we cover your area, give us a call and we will let you know.
Getting a quote is easy. You can fill out our online contact form, call us directly, or email us. We will schedule a time to inspect your deck, discuss your preferences, and provide a detailed, no-obligation estimate — usually within 24 to 48 hours.
Yes, Deck Heroes is fully insured. We carry comprehensive general liability insurance to protect your property and our team throughout every project.
Deck Staining
Most residential decks take 1 to 3 days depending on size, condition, and weather. This includes preparation (cleaning, sanding, repairs), stain application, and drying time. We will give you a specific timeline during your free estimate.
It depends on your stain type and sun exposure. Transparent stains typically last 1 to 2 years, semi-transparent stains last 2 to 3 years, and solid stains can last 3 to 5 years. We recommend the water test: if water soaks into the wood instead of beading up, it is time to re-stain.
Late spring through early fall is ideal — typically May through October. You need at least 2 consecutive dry days with temperatures between 10°C and 30°C. We avoid staining in direct hot sun, high humidity, or when rain is in the forecast.
The main factors are deck size (square footage), current condition (how much prep is needed), stain type and brand, accessibility, and whether repairs are required. We provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
Yes, but new pressure-treated wood needs to dry out first — usually 3 to 6 months after installation. New cedar can often be stained sooner. We will assess your deck and recommend the right timing.
Deck Building
In most municipalities, yes. Decks higher than twenty-four inches above grade, attached to the house, or over a certain size require a building permit. Requirements vary by city. We handle the full permit process for you, including site plans and construction drawings.
A standard single-level deck takes one to two weeks. Multi-level or complex builds may take two to four weeks. Permit approval can add one to three weeks before construction begins. We provide a clear timeline in your quote.
Maintenance & Cleaning
Sweep regularly to remove debris, clean with a mild deck cleaner once or twice a year, and address any mould or mildew promptly. Avoid using a pressure washer on high settings as it can damage wood fibres. Keep planters on saucers and move furniture periodically to prevent uneven fading.
Use a garden hose and a soft-bristle brush with a diluted deck cleaner or oxygen bleach solution. Avoid chlorine bleach as it can discolour the wood. For stubborn spots, a low-pressure washer (under 1,500 PSI) with a wide fan tip works well.
Our Process
First, we clear and clean the deck surface. Then we sand as needed, make any minor repairs, and apply painter's tape to protect adjacent surfaces. We apply the stain in even coats following the wood grain. Finally, we do a walkthrough with you to make sure everything meets your expectations.
Yes, we ask that the deck be cleared of all furniture, planters, grills, and accessories before we arrive. This gives us full access to every board and speeds up the process. We can help coordinate timing so it is convenient for you.
We monitor the weather closely and only begin work when the forecast is clear. If unexpected rain occurs, we have tarps and cover systems to protect fresh stain. In some cases we may need to reschedule a day — we will communicate any changes immediately.
Light foot traffic is usually fine after 24 to 48 hours. We recommend waiting 72 hours before replacing heavy furniture and 7 days before placing rugs or mats. Drying time varies based on stain type, temperature, and humidity.
Still Have Questions?
We are happy to help. Give us a call or send us a message and we will get back to you promptly.
Ready to Transform Your Deck?
Get a free, no-obligation quote from our team. We proudly serve Southwestern Ontario with expert deck staining and refinishing.