How Much Does It Cost to Stain a 12’x12 Deck?
If you have a new deck or an old one that has faded a bit, it’s time to think about staining it. In this detailed guide, we’ll go over the costs of refinishing your deck.
Maintaining your deck isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s also important for the safety and longevity of your deck. You should stain your deck every two to three years. Early summer is the perfect time to start this project before summer arrives.
As we discuss the various aspects of deck staining prices, you’ll learn that this investment not only makes your home look better from the street but also protects the structure of your outdoor space.
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Table of Contents
How Much Does It Cost to Stain a Deck?
Staining a deck costs an average of $600 to $1,200. This includes materials and construction costs. The size of the deck, the work that needs to be done before staining, the type of color you choose, and the amount of work that needs to be done will all affect the cost. Let’s look at each component:
Size of the Deck
The cost of hiring a professional to paint a deck is directly related to the size of the deck. Here are the costs by square foot:
| Dimensions | Average cost |
| 10’x10’ (100 square feet) | $100 – $250 |
| 12’x12’ (144 square feet) | $145 – $300 |
| 12’x16’ (192 square feet) | $200 – $480 |
| 12’x20’ (240 square feet) | $240 – $600 |
| 14’x24’ (336 square feet) | $340 – $840 |
| 16’x24’ (384 square feet) | $400 – $960 |
| 24’x24’ (586 square feet) | $600 – $1,465 |
Pre-staining Tasks
The condition of the deck is another important factor in the cost. For decks that have just been built, light sanding is usually required before painting. For other decks, power washing may be required. Often, these preparatory tasks are part of the overall service, but here are their specific implications:
Cleaning the Deck
It is important to ensure that the deck is completely clean before painting it. Pressure washing is an effective method, and professionals often use it as the first step in the staining process. Services that clean and stain at the same time cost between $0.50 and $1.50 per square foot on average.
You can also power wash your deck yourself. Keep in mind that renting a power washer can cost between $50 and $65 per day. A new power washer can cost between $100 and $1,500.
Sanding
Whether your deck is new or old, it usually needs to be sanded before it’s painted. Decks that need only a light sanding cost about $1.00 to $1.50 per square foot, including paint. If more work needs to be done on the surface, the price for sanding and staining can go up to $2 to $4 per square foot.
Paint Stripping
You should also consider whether you want to remove the paint from your deck. Using a specialized cleaner, letting it soak overnight, and then removing and cleaning the surface are the steps in this process. Painting an old deck takes a lot of time and effort, which drives the cost up to $1.50 to $3.00 per square foot.
Stain Type
If a gallon of stain and sealer is used, 100 to 300 square feet can be covered, depending on the condition of the deck. Stain prices range from $20 to $120 per gallon. For the best quality, you should choose a stain that costs more than $40. Below is a detailed breakdown:
| Type of Stain | Price | Best For |
| Water-Based Deck Stain | $20 – $90 | Environmentally friendly and mold and mildew resistant. |
| Oil-Based Deck Stain | $35 – $120 | Offers deep penetration and a natural appearance. |
| Solid Deck Stain | $25 – $70 | Ideal for older wood; also suitable for painting decks. |
| Semi-Solid Deck Stain | $40 – $90 | Displays a slight wood grain. |
| Semi-Transparent Deck Stain | $20 – $100 | Easy to clean, highlights wood grain. |
| Transparent Deck Stain | $20 – $60 | Slight surface coverage for a subdued look. |
| Clear Deck Stain | $20 – $50 | Provides a natural-wood look. |
Labor Costs
The cost of labor depends on the amount of time required for each job. For example, it can take up to 20 hours to paint and apply finish strips to a 250-square-foot deck. Sanding alone can take up to 10 hours, not counting the time required for cleanup. The general cost of staining services is affected by the difference in hours worked.
The Cost of Sealing
To ensure the longevity of your deck, you will need to seal the wood from the weather. The best time to refinish is after staining. Sealing may be part of the fee charged by some professionals, while others may charge extra. Depending on the size of the job, a sealing job should cost between $500 and $1,300.
Re-staining
Regularly re-staining your deck will not only keep your deck looking great, but it will also save you money in the long run. Regularly staining your deck can save you money on restaining because professionals don’t need to do a lot of sanding or stripping. This simple job can cost as little as 50 cents to $1 per square foot.
Stairs and Railings
During the staining process, you must include the railing or stairs on your deck. In most cases, contractors will charge $4.00 to $12.50 per square foot for staining these sections. You will need to consider the deck and risers when calculating the square footage of the stairs.
Summarizing
Now that your deck is trimmed and protected from the elements, you need to keep it looking great for a long time. To accomplish this, regular maintenance is important. To keep your deck in good shape, get into the habit of sweeping up debris regularly and removing snow quickly.
A full cleaning once a year is a great way to keep your deck in good shape. This job is best done in the spring after the snow has melted. By doing these things on a regular basis, you can ensure that your deck and its color will look great for a long time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take to Paint or Stain a Deck?
Staining a deck takes about one to two days, depending on the size of the deck and how many coats of paint are needed. Professionals usually take 12 to 16 hours, but if you are doing it yourself, it may take longer.
How Much Does It Cost to Stain a Pergola?
When straining a pergola, you’ll need to consider things like the height of the pergola and whether there are any decorations on it. Prices range from $860 to $4,400, or about $6 to $7 per square foot.
Do It Yourself or Hire a Professional?
Staining a deck yourself is possible, but it takes a lot of time and requires a few tools. The wide variety of stains available can also be confusing for someone who has never used one before. It’s also important to consider how much it might cost to hire a professional to fix it if you make a mistake while doing it yourself.
In contrast, hiring a professional will not only save you time but will also give you more peace of mind when staining your deck. Therefore, choose whether or not to hire a professional based on your situation.
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