How to Stain a Pergola | Nortex Fence & Patio

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How to Stain a Pergola in Just a Few Steps

Maintaining Your Pergola: Staining Takeaways

Pergolas are a perfect addition to any patio area or backyard. They offer shade on hot, sunny days and lend personality to your outdoor living area. Over the years, the elements can make pergolas look weathered and in need of minor repair. Staining and sealing can help with the upkeep of your pergola and add value to your property. Below, you’ll learn how to stain a pergola and how to maintain and re-stain your pergola.

First, it’s important to mention when you should stain cedar vs. pine pergolas. A pressure-treated pine pergola should be completely dry as it won’t accept a stain while wet, and that averages from two to six months from its assembly. A western red cedar pergola can take a stain directly after assembly.

For the best look, choose a stain that matches your existing deck or wooden furniture. You could also select a stain that complements accessories, such as floral arrangements. A neutral stain is an optimal way to tie everything together and make your outdoor living area shine.

How to Stain a Pergola in Just a Few Steps

Before you begin staining the pergola, you’ll need to check local weather conditions. You’ll need 24-48 hours to ensure that there’s no precipitation. Check the label on the staining products you’re applying for the correct window of time. Then, you’re ready to learn how to stain a pergola.

1. Prep the Pergola

To prepare the pergola for staining, ensure the surface is free of dirt and totally dry. If you pressure wash the pergola or use a garden hose, let the wood dry completely before applying the staining product. If you aren’t working with raw wood and the pergola has a pre-existing stain, you’ll need to remove it with a sander before proceeding. Make any minor repairs needed, such as removing debris or sealing insect damage.

2. Set Out Supplies

Gather the necessary materials and set them out, so you’re ready to work. Necessary items for staining include a step ladder, cleaning rags, the staining product, drop cloths, safety goggles and brushes.

3. Remove Items and Cover Surfaces

Remove unnecessary items from the area, so you don’t trip or accidentally stain them. Cover larger surfaces, such as the patio and furniture, with drop cloths to avoid unwanted staining.

4. Apply the Stain Along the Wood Grain

Check the directions on the staining product before you begin, ensuring that you follow the instructions. Apply a test stain on a hidden area as a final check to see if the color is right for you.

When ready, apply the stain from the top to the bottom: overhead, vertical surfaces and bottom. For the best results, apply the stain in the direction of the wood grain in long, even strokes. Avoid making lap marks by maintaining a wet edge, and apply the stain to a few areas at a time.

However, there are different effects you can achieve depending on how you layer the stain:

For semi-transparent stains, apply a thin coat with a high-quality brush or roller.
For solid stains, apply two coats of the stain with a high-quality brush or roller.
Back brush gently and evenly to even out rough areas.

5. Allow the Stain to Dry

Don’t miss any edges or ends. Once done, allow the stain to dry before replacing accessories and furniture or walking on the floor.

Maintaining Your Pergola: Staining Takeaways

Wood pergolas enhance the beauty of your outdoor living space. Staining your pergola enhances its beauty and longevity for years to come.

To maintain your pergola, check it for wear and tear seasonally, and repair any damage to prevent deterioration.
Deep clean your pergola annually with a pressure washer on a low setting.
Once the pergola is clean and dry, you can re-apply the stain for upkeep. Work from top to bottom, applying the stain in long, even strokes. Work the stain into crevices.
Allow the stain to dry before replacing furniture and accessories.

With these easy tips, you’ll extend the beauty and enjoyment of your pergola in the perfect outdoor living space, envisioned by you!

NorTex Fence & Patio prides itself on the design and construction of high-quality pergolas and patio covers that last for years to come. Our artisans see every project from start to finish with the most complete attention to detail, ensuring it exceeds each customer’s expectations.