Precision Staining | How to Stain a Dock: Step-by-Step Guide

How to Stain a Dock?

Josh Richards • Oct 04, 2022

Staining a Dock

If you own a wooden boat dock, then you are aware of how difficult it is to keep the it in good condition. Since it faces a lot of abuse because of harsh sunlight and moisture all the time. This affect the appearance of the dock, making it look moldy, dull and grey. To prevent this from happening, it is essential to shield your wooden dock by using high-quality stain for wood that does not only last but is also safe to use around water.

It seems a little tricky and difficult to stain your dock yourself, but it can be possible to avoid regrets by staining your dock following a guide.
Let’s learn the simple steps related to staining to extend the life of your dock.

Tips for Finding the Best Stain for a Wood Dock

The ideal stain to use for a wood boat dock will be any stain that can penetrate into the wood. Form filming wood staining or paints that stay in the surface of wood are not usually recommended. These stains that form film can peel off after sometime and cause flaking, and when combined with the moisture in the wood dock, it's not a good combination, because it helps mold and mildew grew faster. So apart from a stain that penetrates well, choose one that is resistant to mildew and mold. Therefore, wood docks stains that fight natural contaminants are strongly advised since mildew and mold can lead to wood rot and decay.
Another advantage to consider when choosing the ideal stain for your wood dock is that it can stand up to all-day sunlight. A majority of docks and piers will be exposed to sun for a long time, which can cause fade and graying quite likely. Make sure you use a wood dock stain which offers great UV protection.
Stains for wood docks that are water-resistant, penetrate well, fight the growth of mold and mildew, and provide excellent ultraviolet protection. They recommended stains for staining the wooden boat docks are Defy Marine Stain or TWP (Total Wood Preservative). There are many more staining for wood docks available but these are the two best examples of wood dock stains that possess all the attributes needed for long-lasting and durable protection in harsh environments.
Contact Now: We will help you choose the right dock stain among the wide range of options

Here are some other tips for finding the best stain for a wood dock:

Consider Your Surroundings - If you live in an area with frequent rainfall or humidity, you should choose a water-repellent stain that will not allow moisture to penetrate the surface of the wood. This type of stain will also help prevent mildew growth on your deck. If you live in an arid climate, choose a high quality oil-based stain that will resist water damage while still allowing moisture out of the wood so it doesn't rot underneath.

Consider Your Budget - You don't want to spend too much money on something you're only going to use once or twice before winter hits again! However, if you plan on making use of your outdoor space year round then splurging a little bit more may be worth it in the long run because it'll last longer

Check the Forecast Before Staining

Before you stain your dock, be sure to check the forecast. If rain is predicted, it's best to wait until the next day to start the project. Rain will wash away the wood sealer and leave your deck looking dull and gray.

Materials Needed

Stain, such as Stain and Seal experts

Paint roller with extension pole

Screwdriver or drill and screws to attach the stain pad to the handle of a broom or other long handle object (optional)

Stain pad, such as a paint roller frame with a sponge attached (optional)

Plastic sheeting

Pressure Washer (If available)

When Staining a Dock, You Need to Take Certain Precautions

Before you begin to stain the dock, you need to clean it. In order to clean it and know what we can use to clean the dock you need to check with your local water ways to see what cleaners we can use so we don't harm the wild life.

Test the stain on a small part of it. If possible, get a sample of the wood and test it before purchasing the whole amount. This will help you determine how much stain you will need and whether or not the stain will be effective with your decking material.

Cover all areas around the area where you are going to stain using plastic sheets or tarps. This will prevent any drips from getting onto anything other than your dock.

Stain only in dry weather conditions; never attempt to stain when it is raining or snowing outside. If there is any chance that precipitation may occur while staining your dock, wait until after it has passed before continuing with this project.

Protect yourself and others by wearing protective clothing such as gloves and goggles when working with stain products; these materials can be very dangerous if they come into contact with skin or eyes. Also keep children away from stained areas until they have dried completely so they do not get accidentally stained themselves (and then cry).

How Much Dock Stain Do I Need?

Determining how much dock stain to buy can be confusing, especially if you're new to the product. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your purchase.
The first thing to consider when buying dock stain is how big your project is going to be. It's better to over-buy than under-buy when it comes to purchasing this product. Many homeowners make the mistake of buying too little and having to reorder more later on. If you're unsure about how much stain your project will require, then we recommend ordering at least twice as much as you think you'll need. It's better to have too much than not enough. You can always return most of the stain you buy. Also take expert opinion before ordering the products.

Unfortunately, it's impossible to give exact measurements because every project is different. Factors such as:

The size of your dock or decking surface area

The type of wood used (cedar vs pine) (plywood vs solid wood)

Whether you’re painting over a previously stained surface or bare wood

Remove Surface Dirt

In order to remove the old stain (you'll need to use a dock stripper—a product safe for wood and the environment.Always make sure that you're using a dock stripper that is safe for children, pets and birds. You don't want anything getting into their eyes or mouths if they happen to get near it while it's being applied or after it's dried. It's also important not to use any products on your dock that could harm any fish swimming in nearby waterways like marshes or ponds.
Note: For a step by step detail of stripping process read How To Stain A Boat Dock (Add Link here).

Sand the wood

To sand the wood, you'll probably want to use a power sander. The kind with an electric motor that plugs into an outlet and pulls energy from your home's electrical grid is often the most practical choice for large projects like this one. For smaller projects, though, you can use hand-powered sanders or even belt sanders—just be sure not to let them get away from you!

Using a random orbital sander will help ensure that every inch of your dock gets smooth and even in its finish. If you don't have access to one of these tools (and most people don't), consider using a palm sander instead; they're much easier to find at hardware stores around town.

Apply a Wood Cleaner

To make sure you have a nice clean surface to work with, you should use a wood cleaner to remove any dirt from the dock before staining. You can apply it using a soft cloth or sponge in order to get into crevices and corners. Let it soak for about 10 - 15 mins (depending on the product you are using, follow instructions of manufacturer) before wiping off the surface with another clean cloth or sponge.

You can also use pressure washer, if you have it, or you can rent it. The best part about the pressure washer is that it uses a mild and eco-friendly soap will accomplish the task. It's not necessary to buy commercial cleaning solutions with harsh chemicals like ammonia, phthalates, or Phosphorus that create pollution of the water and harm aquatic creatures. Rinse the chemical afterwards.

Note: Professional pressure washers employ exclusive cleaning solutions that are eco-friendly. For effective and thorough pressure cleaning of your dock in Orlando, Florida contact Precision Staining LLC.

Apply a brightener

If you want to make the wood look more natural, like it came from a tree, use a brightener. The method to get the chemicals effect reversed is to apply neutralizing acids to the wood after washing it. The mild acid formula referred to by the name deck brightnesser can reverse the caustic soaps, and restores the wood's pH equilibrium to an acidic or neutral state. It additionally "brightens" the wood and increases the grain of the wood. Brightening procedure is similar to the one employed by professional deck cleaners and gives you similar results. It helps stain to penetrate in wood, improves the appearance of your deck and gives you the best protection and durable outcomes from the deck stain.

Apply the Stain

Before you begin, make sure you're wearing protective clothes. You should also wear gloves as a precaution to protect your skin from any chemicals or harsh weather elements.

Make sure the surface is clean and dry before applying the stain. If there's dirt on the dock, use soap and water to remove it; if it's damp enough that your dock has begun to rot in some places, apply a thin layer of varnish or paint over those spots before staining them.

Read instructions properly, and note details about the tools required, time duration etc, follow properly. Because the application might vary product to product. If you're using an oil-based stain (which is typically used for outdoor projects like decks or fences), make sure that you follow all safety instructions on the container carefully; this type of material may contain dangerous chemicals like benzene and formaldehyde that could cause rashes or respiratory problems if handled improperly.

It's important to do it right with the stain, otherwise you'll have to repeat it.

Once you have the right stain, it's time to apply it. Applying stain is a lot like painting or drawing—it takes some skill and patience! It's important to do it right with the stain, otherwise you'll have to repeat it. If your dock doesn't turn out how you want it after just one coat of stain, then don't worry; this happens sometimes (and more than once).

FAQs

How to Pressure Wash Your Boat Dock?

After you've cleaned the boat dock surfaces it's time for you to pressure clean them. If you're working with fragile woods or other materials, use an amount of around 1,200-1500 PSI. It is recommended to utilize a greater 45-degree or 65-degree nozzle in order to avoid any type of unnecessary damage.
However, on stronger surfaces such as concrete and composite, the water pressure can remove all unwanted contaminants. It is possible to use up to 3000 PSI and an nozzle with a 15-degree or 25-degree angle for cleaning your dock for your boat.
Whatever material you're working on ensure that you proceed cautiously. Pressure washing may cause injury or damage when done incorrectly. Be sure to begin with low pressure water and set the pressure washer between 6 and 12 inches over the surface. Also, you should wear protective equipment to avoid any injuries that are caused by the pressure of water.

Which cleaning products I should avoid for boat dock cleaning?

Do you wish to use something other than mild dish soap baking soda, vinegar, baking soda or lemons for cleaning your dock for your boat? There are many other options available however, you must be aware when selecting the right product. Beware of products that include:
Phosphates, Ammonia, Chlorine bleach, Petroleum solvents and Phthalates.
If you're not sure if the product you are using for cleaning is safe for use, inquire with the EPA. The EPA has an approved list of cleansing products suitable to marine animals. If you choose one of those cleaning products from the listing, then you'll be able to be sure that you're not putting marine life at risk.

Final Words

Like the way you value your boat, you should also treat your dock well. In the end, it's the dock for your boat that makes the pathway to your boat as well as the water. If you now know the importance of cleaning your dock for boats it is possible. You should make the pressure washing routine part of your plan to maintain your boat. Also, to protect it from damage, you should time stain it.
We hope that this article has helped you with installing a dock and the process of attaching it to your property. If you have any additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us!

Wood Cleaning & Dock Cleaning Orlando

Are you looking for a professional to clean your dock for your boat? Precision Staining provides professional pressure washing and wood staining services for your dock! Contact us now to find out more information about our services for cleaning boats docks or to get a free estimate.

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