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Frequently Asked Questions
Restorations & Repairs
Staining
We use premium oil-based stains because they penetrate deep into the wood fibers rather than just sitting on top. This protects the wood from the inside out and prevents the common issue of surface peeling.
On average, horizontal surfaces (floors) last 1–3 years, while vertical surfaces (railings) last 2–5 years. The exact lifespan depends on sun exposure and weather, but oil-based stains are much easier to refresh than water-based ones.
No. Because we use penetrating oil-based products, the stain will eventually fade over time rather than peeling or cracking. This makes future maintenance much simpler, as it doesn’t require intensive stripping to apply a fresh coat.
We recommend waiting 24 hours for foot traffic after the stain is applied. For heavy items like patio furniture, BBQ grills, or large planters, it is best to wait a full 48 hours to ensure the finish has completely cured.
We provide a digital colour wheel with every quote. To make sure you’re 100% confident, we can test 2-3 different shades directly on your wood on the day of the project. This helps you see how the pigment reacts with your specific wood type.
Pricing & Payments
Maintenance
We recommend applying a maintenance top coat every 2–3 years. This timeframe depends on factors like sun exposure and foot traffic, but staying on this schedule ensures your wood stays protected.
Use the “bead test”: drop a bit of water on the wood. If it beads on the surface, the wood is still protected. If the water soaks in quickly, the protection has worn down and it’s time for a refresh.
Simple steps like sweeping off wet leaves and debris make a big difference. For winter protection, we recommend covering your deck with a tarp, if possible.
Additionally, we suggest a darker stain colour if the deck gets a lot of sun.
No. One of the main benefits of our process is that oil-based stains don’t peel or chip, they fade over time so they do not need to be stripped or chemically removed. For maintenance, we simply perform a professional deep clean to remove surface dirt before applying the fresh top coat directly over the existing finish.
Yes. Even if the deck looks clean, microscopic organic growth and dust can prevent the new stain from bonding. A professional-grade wash ensures the wood pores are open and clear, which is essential for the maintenance coat to penetrate and protect properly.