Cost estimates:
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For new decks with no prior stain, typically between $900 and $1,800, depending on size and specifics.
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For decks that have been stained before and require pressure washing, it usually adds a couple hundred dollars—mainly because we need an extra day to do the cleaning, let it dry, and then stain.
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For larger decks with overhangs, porches, or enclosures, costs may go higher but generally stay under $2,500.
Intro
Hey guys, Derek with Dependable Painting and Remodeling here. Back with another video in our series, “What does it cost?” The goal of these videos is to educate you.
If you're like me, I do a lot of home improvement projects—my wife does, too—and we all need a starting point for understanding costs. So today, I want to share what’s going through my mind when I show up to estimate a deck staining job.
When it comes to deck staining, we usually divide it into two categories:
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Solid stain: looks like paint, very durable, but has that painted appearance.
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Semi-transparent stain: a more natural look; we actually make in-house the best penetrating oil I’ve ever seen.
We’re excited to offer this to our customers because, honestly, good penetrating oil isn’t readily available commercially. If it were, I’d gladly use it everywhere. We work with a small manufacturer that makes it custom for us, and it lasts about three times longer—easily five years.
It’s not film-forming, which is a big plus — a great product.
When we estimate a deck, the first thing we look at is size—how long will the job take?
Next, we assess the condition:
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Is any wood damaged and in need of repairs? We can handle this cost-effectively since we’re already there—no need to hire a separate carpenter.
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What's the condition of the wood regarding coating? Has it been stained before? If so, what type?
If it’s been solid stained, stripping and sanding it off would be very expensive and often not worth it. It’s better to prep and recoat with a solid stain.
If it’s been semi-transparent, we usually can prep and convert it to our penetrating oil, which works great.
The job primarily depends on prep work, which correlates with time, and material requirements.
Most decks that haven’t been stained before and are less than a year old don’t need pressure washing. We will clean them prior to staining, but since our penetrating oil isn’t film-forming, pressure washing isn’t necessary and can even damage the wood over time. If the deck is new, avoiding pressure washing is ideal.
Typical deck sizes:
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Built by a contractor: about 10x12 feet or 16x10 feet, roughly similar in size.
Our penetrating oil offers incredible value: it lasts longer, performs better, and never forms a film, meaning it won’t fail.
When you call us back in 5 years, there’s no need for extensive prep—just a quick recoat, and you’re good to go.
Important Notes
Key information to keep in mind
Thanks!