Usually a power washer will remove most of the old stain, but in some areas that aren't as exposed to sun or wear, a stripper may be used to remove old stain. Take care to protect nearby plants by spraying them with water before applying harsh chemicals, and then rinsing them once the job is done.

Depending on the weather, you may need to wait 2 or 3 days for the wood to dry completely after washing. Use this time to pound down any nail heads or make necessary repairs. You may want to give it a quick sanding to make your finishing time go quicker and possibly waste less product.

Finish Time

Use a good quality paint or stain, you'll be glad you spent the extra dollars. When choosing a stain, keep in mind that the more pigment they contain, the longer they last. This means a clear or slightly tinted product will last about one or two years, and a semitransparent or solid stain should last two to four years. Find out if your old stain was an oil or water base and use the same to ensure a longlasting finish.

When applying stain, some brands suggest using a brush over a roller. Otherwise, a roller is quick, and the use of extension handles can save your back. Sprayers tend to use more stain, but apply a nice even finish and cover large areas very quickly. Once again, check your instructions, all brands of paint or stain are not effective with sprayers.

Clean Up

Most products today are water based, however oil based products will require paint thinner to clean up brushes or trays. If you don't finish the job in one day, cover your brushes or rollers with a plastic bag and secure tightly. This will keep them supple, so you can take up where you left off, the next day. M Shane