How do you know when it's time to re-stain?

Look for these signs to know when it's time to re-stain your deck:

• Water no longer beads up: The finish may be losing its water repellency. This is a useful clue, though not a definitive test.
• Color has faded: UV exposure is breaking down the finish.
• Bare or gray patches appear: High-traffic areas may need recoating.
• The wood absorbs water quickly: Protection may be wearing away.
• The finish peels or flakes: The surface may need more preparation than simply applying another coat.

One important distinction: gray wood does not automatically mean the deck is failing. It can be normal weathering, particularly with cedar.