Re-Staining a Deck

[10,000 Casts]

I am currently sanding down my Cedar Deck. It was built by the previous owner 6 years ago. I'm not sure what kind or color of stain they used and when they put it on, they must have used a brush because you can see the strokes. Not only that but my 2 yellow labs have taken their toll on it to with nail marks.

1. How do I decide what color to use to best cover the old stain?

2. Are some stains better at hiding wear and tear from dogs?

2. I have the deck boards sanded down, should I sand the railings too or just stain over them?

Thanks a bunch for any advise you can offer!

[Surface Tension]

If the previous stain was solid you just about have to use solid again. If that is the case it won't matter what color you choose. Since you see brush strokes I think you have a solid stain.

No need to sand down the spindles but you will need to remove loose paint/stain.

Think of solid stain as paint.

I prefer a translucent stain. This will penetrate the surface and won't peel like a solid stain.

If that is what you have and depending on how faded the old stain is determine if you can cover that up with a new color. With this type stain you can't go light over dark.

[CaptainBly]

I did mine about a month ago. Sanded everything planks and spindles. The contractor used rough ceder for my spindles though. Wanted to smooth them down with a couple of little ones running around. I used a translucent stain on mine. Turned out really nice. I even did a deck wash, not sure if it was needed though.