How to Properly Use a Deck Stain Sprayer

One of the best ways to apply deck stain is by using a sprayer. It speeds up the whole process with deck staining by compressing a day of work into just a few hours. It’s important to understand how to use the sprayer properly in order for this to be truly effective.

Step 1 - Type of Sprayer

There are 2 types of sprayer you can use to apply deck stain. The first is an airless sprayer which you’re unlikely to own. If you choose to use one, the best bet is to obtain one for a day from a tool rental store. Be aware that you’ll need to return it fully cleaned.

The other option is to use a regular sprayer such as the type you might already have in the garage. It’s cheaper and will do a good job even if it’s not as fast or thorough as an airless sprayer.

Step 2 - Preparing the Deck

Having completely cleaned your deck, you need to make sure that the deck stain you spray only goes on the deck. You need to hang a drop cloth on the wall of the house, all the way down to the deck.  

You also need to put plastic around the edges of the deck to protect your landscaping from spray and cover and outlets that are sunk into the deck. Remember not to use a sprayer on windy days.

Step 3 - Airless Sprayer

If you choose to use an airless sprayer, it will work best if you a small tip for the deck stain. For the railings, select a 211 tip which only gives a spray width of 4 inches. When you move to the decking, change to a 411 tip which offers a spray width of 8 inches for better coverage. Use a low pressure on the spray of no more than 100 PSI.

Step 4 - Spraying

Regardless of the type of sprayer you use, apply the deck stain in sections. These should be no more than 3 or 4 boards at any one time. Start at one end of the deck and work your way along.

Don’t stop in the middle of a section. If you do this, you’ll leave a mark when you start again. You need to ensure that you put a very liberal coat of deck stain onto the wood. If it pools in any area, take your paint pad, attached to a long handle, and brush it smooth.

Step 5 - Completion

You’ll find it easiest to apply the deck stain if you spray all of the railings then move on to the deck itself. Work outward from the house, as this way you’ll be able to finish away from the yard.