Deck and fence staining
Washed, brightened and stained so the wood soaks up the colour instead of peeling.
Service colourCL-04 Brick Kiln
How we do it
Stain fails when it sits on top of dirty, grey or wet wood. We wash and brighten the boards first, let them dry for at least two sunny days, then apply a penetrating stain by brush and pad, board by board, so there are no lap marks. Rails and spindles get brushed by hand. We'll help you choose between clear, semi-transparent and solid stain based on the age of the wood and how much grain you want to see.
What's included
- Wash and wood brightener to remove grey fibres and mildew
- Loose boards re-fastened and popped nails set
- Light sanding of rough or fuzzy spots
- One or two coats of penetrating stain, by brush and pad
- Plants and siding next to the deck covered
- A care sheet with a realistic re-coat schedule
Typical prices
Ranges for Madison-area homes in 2026. Your written quote is the number we hold to.
- Deck, up to 250 square feet Floor boards, rim and steps $900 to $1,600
- Deck, 250 to 500 square feet With railings and stairs $1,600 to $3,200
- Fence, up to 100 feet, one side Standard 6-foot privacy or picket fence $700 to $1,300
- Fence, 100 to 200 feet, both sides Standard 6-foot privacy or picket fence $1,600 to $3,400
- Pergola or arbor Brushed by hand $500 to $1,200
Good to know
Decks take more wear than anything else we finish. Floor boards on a sunny deck usually need a fresh coat every 2 to 3 years, which is why our deck warranty is one year, not three. Railings and fences last longer.
When to book
Done June to September, when the wood is dry and nights are warm.
Time on site
2 to 4 days, including drying time after the wash.
Questions we hear
Should I choose stain or paint for my deck?
Usually stain. Paint makes a film that peels where people walk. A penetrating stain wears down slowly and is easy to re-coat without scraping.
My deck is brand new. Can you stain it now?
New pressure-treated wood needs a few months to dry out first. We'll check it with a moisture meter and book you in when it's ready.
Recent work like this
See the gallery-
Exterior · Atwood
Teal door, butter yellow siding Siding, trim, front door and porch posts -
Exterior · Tenney-Lapham
Craftsman bungalow, full exterior Scrape, prime and two coats on siding, trim and porch
Ready for deck and fence staining?
Tell us about your rooms, walls or deck and get a written quote within 48 hours of the visit. Estimates are free.