Carpentry Services

Stain and Your Pergola: What you need to know

Posted on May 9, 2024

When maintaining your pergola, there are several factors to consider, including whether to stain or paint, selecting colors, finishes, and choosing the right products. Here’s a helpful guide from the team at CertaPro Painters® of Indianapolis to ensure you make the best decision for your pergola.

Staining vs. Painting

 

Staining

While not mandatory, staining your wood pergola can extend its lifespan significantly and protect it from weathering. Without stain, you might encounter discoloration, UV damage, or even wood rot. When selecting a stain, consider the look you want. Options include clear, semi-transparent, or solid products, each providing varying levels of tint and protection. Generally, less transparency means better defense against the elements.

Painting

If you choose to paint your pergola, ensure the products you select offer sufficient wood protection. Because paint doesn’t penetrate the wood like stain does, applying a primer beforehand is crucial. If you’re unsure which approach is best, our team is happy to provide expert advice.

pergola collage

How CertaPro Painters® of Indianapolis Handles Pergola Maintenance

We specialize in preserving and enhancing your pergola so you can enjoy it for years to come. Here’s how we approach the process:

  • Surface Preparation: We start by power washing the pergola to remove dirt, algae, and mildew, ensuring it’s clean and ready for staining or painting.
  • Custom Staining: The type of stain we use depends on whether the pergola has been previously stained. This allows us to provide optimal protection and achieve the desired look.
  • Professional Painting: If painting is your preference, we ensure the surfaces are properly primed and painted for a long-lasting finish.

It’s best to stain or paint your pergola during dry weather, as most products require 24–48 hours to set without precipitation.

man working on pergola

Work with CertaPro Painters® of Indianapolis

If you’re ready to give your pergola the care it deserves, our team is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your project by emailing ​​Certa_Indianapolis@certapro.com or calling (317) 252-0334. We look forward to working with you!