How much does it cost to strip and re-stain a previously stained deck in Fredericton?

Stripping and re-staining a previously stained deck in Fredericton typically runs $4–$8 per square foot, meaning a 200 sq ft deck costs roughly $800–$1,600 fully done by a professional.

The price range depends on the condition of the existing stain, the number of coats needed, and whether the old finish requires chemical stripping or just aggressive power washing. If the previous stain is peeling, flaking, or has gone grey and chalky — which is very common after a Fredericton winter — you're looking at the higher end of that range because proper prep work takes real time.

What drives the cost is almost entirely the prep, not the staining itself. A deck that was maintained regularly and just needs a light wash and fresh coat is a half-day job. A deck with failing stain, grey weathered wood, or mildew staining (extremely common on north-facing decks in the Saint John River valley) needs power washing, a chemical deck stripper, possibly a wood brightener to restore pH balance, and full drying time before a single drop of stain goes on. Skipping any of these steps means the new stain won't bond properly and you'll be doing it again in a year.

Timing matters a lot in Fredericton. The staining window is mid-May through September — the wood surface needs to be consistently above 10°C and you need at least 24–48 hours of dry weather after application. Early spring re-staining is tempting after a long winter, but staining on cold or damp wood is one of the most common reasons decks need to be redone prematurely. Late August or early September is actually ideal — the wood has dried out from summer humidity and you still have warm days ahead.

Product costs if you're doing it yourself: a quality exterior deck stain runs $40–$80 per gallon, covering roughly 150–300 sq ft depending on wood porosity. A deck stripper adds another $30–$50, and a brightener another $20–$40. For a 200 sq ft deck, expect $150–$250 in materials alone for a proper DIY job.

Practical tips before you start:

• Test your existing stain by splashing water on it — if it beads up, the old finish is still sealing the wood and new stain won't penetrate. You'll need to strip it first.
• Use a fan tip on your pressure washer (not a zero-degree tip) to avoid raising the wood grain.
• Let the wood dry a full 48–72 hours after washing before staining — longer if it's been a wet week.
• In Fredericton's climate, a penetrating oil-based or semi-transparent stain outperforms solid stains for longevity because it moves with the wood through freeze-thaw cycles instead of cracking on the surface.

This is one of the more DIY-friendly deck projects if your deck is in reasonable shape. But if the wood is heavily weathered, has significant mildew, or you're not sure what product was used previously, hiring a pro saves you from a costly re-do. New Brunswick Decks can connect you with local contractors in Fredericton for a free estimate if you'd rather have it done right the first time.