Fences & Decks in Salt Lake City

A few things we've learned staining fences and decks across the Wasatch Front:

• UV fade is the #1 enemy. Untreated or under-stained wood at 4,200+ feet greys out and cracks within two to three years. Penetrating oil-based stains hold up dramatically better than water-based on horizontal surfaces like deck boards.
• Snowmelt and ice cycles destroy untreated wood. Decks in Cottonwood Heights, Sandy, and the East Bench take direct snow loading every winter. Annual inspections of railings, stair stringers, and post bases catch rot before it spreads.
• Stain in late spring or early fall. Mid-summer in SLC is too hot — stain dries before it penetrates. Late April through early June, or September, are the ideal windows. Book early; we're solid through deck season.
• Privacy fences need different treatment. Cedar privacy fencing common in Holladay, Millcreek, and Sugar House does well with semi-transparent stains that show grain. Pressure-treated pine fencing in newer Daybreak and South Jordan builds usually wants a solid stain to even out the color.