I don’t know about you, but I’d prefer not to spend my days painting or rolling my deck the traditional ways. It’s far easier to spray the deck stain and get back to enjoying my outdoor parties instead.
Many people don’t use the best deck stain sprayer because they aren’t sure how to use deck sprayer or they don’t know what to buy.
I’m here to help with both! Let’s talk about how to stain a deck using a deck sprayer and which one is the best deck stain sprayer to buy.
Quick Guide - Our Top Picks
5 Best Stain Sprayers Reviewed
1. Graco Magnum 262800 X5 Stand Airless Paint Sprayer
- Just right for DIY Homeowners and Remodelers...
- Ideal for projects up to 10 gallons in size,...
- Fully adjustable pressure control to give you...
- Flexible Suction Tube allows you to spray...
Graco magnum paint sprayer is fully adjustable airless paint sprayer. Graco magnum x7 sprayer allows you maximum control while spraying the deck and other large projects. This graco magnum x7 airless paint sprayer features a stainless steel's piston pump for maximum durability.
This graco magnum x7 airless paint sprayer use the flexible suction tube to spray right from your one to five-gallon bucket instead of mixing materials. Then, when you are finished your painting, use hose with the PowerFlush adaptor for simple cleanup.
This graco ultra cordless airless paint sprayer supports a hose as long as 75-feet, so you are sure to reach all of your deck without an issue. Plus, the RAC IV SwitchTip allows you to reverse airless paint sprayer if a clog occurs so there’s no downtime.
The graco ultra cordless airless sprayers did a great job with painting single coats since they use unthinned paint. The stainless steel pump has the power to painting or spray unthinned paint directly from the can.
Pros
Cons
2. Earlex HV5500 Spray Station
- SEMI-PRO PAINT SPRAYER: The Earlex Spray...
- ACHIEVE THE PERFECT FINISH: The professional...
- ADJUSTABLE SETTINGS: This HVLP paint spraying...
- USE WITH A VARIETY OF MATERIALS: Use the 5500...
This professional paint spray gun might look different than most, but this spray gun a great option for home or professional use.
The powerful 650-watt turbine of the paint spray gun allows you to complete your diy projects quickly while still maintaining a quality finish. The easy adjustments enable patterns of electric spray gun ranging from 1-inch through 12-inch.
There’s also a convenient handle of metal spray gun to make portability simple. With the 13-foot hose and 5.5-foot power cord, you might find yourself limited slightly on maneuverability, but most people haven’t seen this spray gun to be an issue. Included with the new paint sprayer is a 2.0mm stainless steel tip.
This electric spray gun isn’t just the best paint sprayer for stains, but also thinned latex lacquers (latex based paint), oils, sealants, varnishes, shellacs, water based paints, enamels and acrylics.
Pros
Cons
3. Graco Magnum 262805 X7 Cart Airless Paint Sprayer
- CONTROL PAINT FLOW: Fully adjustable pressure...
- SPRAY PAINT UNTHINNED: Stainless Steel Piston...
- SPRAY DIRECTLY FROM PAINT BUCKET: Flexible...
- SPRAY MORE PROJECTS EACH YEAR: Annual use...
If you have a large deck or plan to use your best paint sprayer professionally, you might consider the Magnum X7.
This adjustable option gives you all the control you need to get the job done right. With its steel piston pump, you can spray many materials, some unthinned.
Use the flexible suction tube and pull the material directly from its paint bucket. This reduces your preparation. Then, connect the PowerFlush Adaptor to your garden hose and clean it out easily. You can connect up to 100-feet of paint hose if you need to reach distant areas.
This is ideal for reaching the second or third story of your house. Just like the smaller Graco, this unit comes with a RAC IV SwitchTip so you don’t have to worry about the nozzle getting clogged.
Pros
Cons
4. Wagner 0518050 Spray Double Duty Paint Sprayer
- SUPERIOR PERFORMING HVLP SPRAY GUN: This HVLP...
- PERFECT FLOW EVERY TIME: Adjust the material...
- USE WITH A VARIETY OF MATERIALS: Applies thin...
- GREAT FOR ANY PROJECT: Includes two material...
This budget-friendly and handheld paint sprayer is ideal for smaller spaces. It features a two-stage turbine that’s perfect for creating fine tune finishes indoors or outdoors.
It sprays a maximum of 4.9 fl. oz. per minute and you can easily adjust the air cap to three varying positions for a unique spray pattern. wisting the air cap changes the spray pattern between horizontal, round, and vertical Paint flow control knob quickly increases or decreases the output rate.
With this paint sprayer, you can apply thin materials like sealers, varnishes, lacquers and sealers with ease. It’s also possible to spray latex paint if thinned properly. With this paint sprayer comes two material cups.
The one-quart is a perfect size for small interior jobs while the 1-1/2 quart cup is best for larger exterior work or larger projects.
Pros
Cons
5. Wagner 0518080 Spray Max HVLP Paint Sprayer
- HVLP PAINT SPRAYER: The Control Spray Max...
- USE WITH A WIDE VARIETY OF MATERIALS:...
- ADJUSTABLE SETTINGS: Customize your paint...
- GREAT DESIGN: The stationary base is...
For a more professional option in the Wagner line of best paint sprayers for deck stain, this Control Spray Max might be what you’re looking for.
These best paint sprayers for deck staining offer variable air pressure control and three varying spray patterns. There’s also a 20-foot hose so you can easily reach further while working on the deck.
The professional grade metal cup is perfect for holding your materials. Plus, this unit easily sprays sealers, interior latex and stains.
This unit also uses two air filters that protect the professional finish from dust. Use the 1-quart metal cup for smaller jobs and the 1-1/2 quart plastic cup for staining the deck and fences.
Pros
Cons
Deck Stain Sprayers Compared
Image | Product Name | Sprayer Type | Performance Rating (gal/min) | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Graco Magnum 262800 X5 | Airless | 6.6043 | ||
Earlex HV5500 | HVLP | - | ||
Graco Magnum 262805 X7 | Airless | 0.31 | ||
Wagner 0518050 Control Spray Double Duty | HVLP | 2.28 | ||
Wagner 0518080 Control Spray Max | HVLP | 2.28 |
What to Look For In a Paint Sprayer for Decks?
Trusted Brand
You don’t want to purchase just any paint sprayer for decks when working on your deck.
Sure, there are best paint sprayers out there for a small price, but how long will they really last you?
Invest in a high-quality brand best paint sprayers for deck stain like Graco or Wagner spraytechand you’ll get many more years out of your unit.
Maneuverability
An essential part of spraying the deck with best paint sprayers for spraying is having the ability to move around freely.
Look for best paint sprayers that are portable and features a long-reaching hose so you can spraying or paint coverage the deck with ease. You don’t want to keep moving your best paint sprayers unit around to get the spraying work done.
Power
If you want to get the paint job done fast, then you need a high-powered paint sprayer.
Keep in mind that the higher you go in power, the more the price goes up as well. It’s also likely that overspray becomes a larger issue with higher powered paint sprayers.
Pay attention to the PSI rating, horsepower and how many gallons are used per minute to make your determination.
Adjustable Pressure
It’s best to purchase a paint sprayer offers adjustable pressure control (from very high pressure to low pressure). This allows you to slow down the flow of stain (stain flow) when needed or speed it up when detail isn’t a concern. With an adjustable spray painter, you’ll have more versatility to use it on other diy projects as well.
Tip Size
Stains are thinner materials, so it’s important that you have a small tip size. Normally a .011 – 0.13 would work best.
If your machine doesn’t come with that size, then you need to see about getting additional tips. It’s always best to price accessories and add-ons before purchasing a paint sprayer so you know what you’re getting into.
Tip Extension
You need this to spray surfaces that are further away. If you don’t want to bend over while spraying your deck, then a spray tip extension is a must.
A 10-inch appears to be the most popular option, but up to 30-inch is used for deck applications. Just avoid going over 36 inches.
Benefits of Paint Sprayers When Staining a Deck
With a deck stain sprayer, you’ll quickly apply the stain to your deck with less mess and time. Just like using the paint sprayer to complete painting jobs, you apply the stain in the same manner.
The stain sprayer atomizes the deck stain and allows painting to cover a larger surface with ease.
Speed
It’s easy to accomplish your desk staining in a fraction of the time as when you more paint or roll it. Instead of spending your time doing manual labor painting, it’s preferable to prepare the materials in a paint sprayer instead of painting and get the job done.
Quality Finish
When you use painting brush or roll the stain, you are often left with painting brush marks and uneven thickness. With a deck stain sprayer, it’s easier to accomplish a professional look than painting. Just use the proper procedures to ensure a quality finish that’s even it and beautiful.
Easier To Use
Most people find that spraying with a machine is far more comfortable than having to brush or roll the more paint or stain on. You can stand the entire time, instead of getting on your hands and knees. Set up and clean up is also a breeze, allowing you to quickly get back to what you love doing the most.
Which Type of Spray Gun is Best for Staining?
There are two types of sprayers and both have reasons they might be the best for staining.
Airless
Airless paint sprayers operate with the help of a piston that pressurizes the material and then squeezes it out the nozzle. An airless sprayer works best on large, flat surfaces. That’s why many people use them for decks. You can use an airless sprayer as an alternative to a roller.
These paint sprayers are more powerful than an max HVLP machine, but only have a transfer rate of about 50 percent. This means that a lot of paint sprayers goes elsewhere into the air and adjacent surfaces instead of where you want it.
While this might be the fastest way to accomplish the task, it also costs more money because of the extra product used.
HVLP
With a max HVLP sprayer, the air comes from a compressor and atomizes the paint or stain. Max HVLP sprayers stands for high volume, low pressure. These paint sprayers are best used for smaller, more detailed oriented smaller projects. That’s what makes them an excellent alternative to a paint brush.
It’s still possible to use an high volume low pressure - HVLP sprayer on a deck, but it might take more time. If you have a small deck, it will work well. Another reason to use the Max HVLP version is if you are worried about cost. When comparing an HVLP sprayer to an airless version there is less wasted material because of the adjustability.
While the project might take you longer, an HVLP sprayer is the way to go for smaller decks or when you don’t want to waste any stain.
How to Stain a Deck – Beginners Guide
Tools & Materials for Staining Decks
When you set out to stain your deck, you will need your stain and paint sprayer, of course. However, there are other tools and materials you may want to consider bringing along for the job.
Before You Spray
If your deck has peeling or cracked paint you'll need to remove it first. If it’s dirty or covered with mold, make sure pressure wash it before application. Then, allow it to dry for a day or two before moving forward.
Sweep off any debris that’s accumulated on the deck. Cover your nearby areas with plastic sheeting to avoid overspray. Prepare your paint sprayer with the stain materials as directed by the manufacturer.
Spraying Stain
Hold your paint sprayer about six to twelve inches from the surface and apply. Make sure you move back and forth consistently plus you want to overlap the area by 50% at each pass.
Allow the first coating of stain to dry completely. Then, you can add a second coat (clear coat) to the deck with the same instructions. Make sure you stay off the deck for a couple of days as the stain completely dries.
Cleanup
Then, it’s time to clean the paint from your sprayer. Follow the manufacturer’s suggestions and make sure everything is clean before packing it away. It’s also important that you allow all the components to dry.
Don’t forget to remove the painter’s tape and any surrounding plastic you put on the deck. All that’s left to do is enjoy your fine work. Once you are done doing the deck, you might want to paint some other exterior areas of the home. Make sure you have the best paint sprayer for exterior painting.
Maintenance & Storage of Stain Sprayers
Maintaining and storing your stain sprayer is no different from any other sprayer.
You can't leave paint in it for very long and you need to clean the sprayer and gun assembly after every use. If you haven’t used an oil-based stain, you can flush with a garden hose (if there is a hose attachment).
Otherwise, you will need to follow your manufacturer’s instructions for proper cleaning process of the specific model you have.
Once cleaned, you will have to reassemble the machine, and you have the perfect opportunity to do your routine maintenance. Check the filters and screens, all seals and o-rings, and ensure there aren’t any cracks or holes in your tubing and longer hoses.
You should also check your tips, spray tip guards, and trigger lock. Replacement parts like tips and guards replace if needed and make sure the trigger lock functions properly. Once maintenance is completed, you can store your sprayer for the offseason.
Make sure the storage area is cool and dry. If you are worried about dust and debris, use a drop cloth or tarp to cover the machine and make sure you always store your paint sprayer in an upright position.
For a more professional painting option in the wagner spraytech line of paint sprayers, the Control Spray Max might be what you're looking for painting. It offers variable air pressure control and three varying spray patterns.
The electric spray gun is 4 nozzle sizes (1.5 mm,1.8 mm,2.2 mm,2.6mm), lightweight structure, hassle-free spraying, and versatility. The electric spray gun can be used to paint walls, fences, tables, chairs, etc. With 700 watts of power, the electric spray gun provides a smooth and superior finish of painting.
Deck Staining FAQs
Can I apply deck stain with a garden sprayer?
Yes, deck stains can generally be applied with a garden sprayer, but a brush or roller may also be necessary for even coating. Stains with more colors and solids may clog the sprayer nozzle, so thinning the stain with 1 cup of thinner per gallon is recommended.
What sprayer size tip should I use to stain decks?
Use a 0.017 tip or larger for staining the decks with a sprayer, as the stains contain more solids and require back brushing or rolling for an even finish.
What is the best sprayer for semi-transparent deck stain?
The best sprayer for semi-transparent deck staining the Graco Magnum ProX7, or any of the Fuji T-series models like the Fuji T-75G Q4 Platinum.
What is the best sprayer for oil based deck stains?
Best sprayer for oil-based deck stain is the Graco Magnum X5 due to its ability to handle thicker paints.
Conclusion
Now you’ve seen the best deck stain sprayers for painting. The choice is yours which one is going to be ideal for your needs.
Think about all the projects you want to complete before making that purchase. This ensures you get something versatile that will help you finish all your DIY tasks. When you’re all done, it might just look like you’ve got a new house.