If you have a wooden deck or floor, you’re going to have to stain it at some point. But, we all know how arduous this process can be, so it’s good to know there’s a product you can use to fast-track things. Staining deck sprayers work fast and make you deck look like new.
But, finding a good quality sprayer is harder than it was a few years ago because there are numerous companies competing for your money. Plus, there are certain features you need to look out for while keeping in mind your budget.
That’s why we’ve put together a helpful guide to help you find the best sprayer for staining deck. We really did our research for this one to bring you only the best products on the market. Based on customer reviews, we’ve got options that cater to all budgets and needs, while making sure that you’ll get value for money no matter which one you choose.
Top Rated Sprayers for Staining Decks
1. Fuji 2202 Semi-PRO 2
If you’re new to staining deck sprayers, this option is for you. It has a simple and straightforward design that can be operated by anyone. All you have to do is follow the instructions provided in the manual and you’re good to go. It’s super easy to understand and use the different features, and you can pretty much start using it from the box.
As long as you’ve hooked up the parts together properly, you’re good to start using it almost immediately. Included in the package is a 25 ft. long hose with a dedicated air control valve that’ll help you master the optimal spraying technique. The best part is that this device only weighs 26 pounds so it shouldn’t be too hard to lug it around.
It also comes with a convenient non-bleeding function that’ll help you achieve a professional paint job no matter how inexperienced you are. You’ll achieve an elegant and neat finish each and every time.
You’ll also be glad to know that this unit is super easy to use with thick materials because of its 1400W 1-stage bypass motor. Thanks to this feature, the Fuji 2202 is suitable for beginners and expert users alike. Plus, it packs a punch with a powerful motor that can handle any job you throw at it.
Pros
- You can gradually adjust it using the included pattern control knob
- Easy to maintain and use
- Fully automatic spray system
- Offers great value for money
Cons
- Don’t be surprised if the metal parts start to corrode
- Overspray might be a possibility due to volume control issues
2. Graco Magnum 257025
The Graco Magnum looks simple on the face of it but it’s true that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. Sure, it’s a simple entry-level model with a 50-gallon annual recommended usage limit but it has a lot to offer.
It has the capacity to do multiple jobs around the house over and above the initial spraying, you’ll do around your house when you get it. It’s a cost-effective option suitable for beginners and avid DIYers alike.
It also offers a decent output of 0.24 gallons per minute with a 3/8 horsepower motor that pushes out the coating material through a 25 ft. hose. The hose might be a bit short for some, depending on your intended application but you can always replace it with a 50 ft. hose instead.
You’ll be glad that this unit has a top pressure of 2800 PSI and it comes with an SG2 gun. You’ll be able to enjoy a nice finish with this sprayer because of the design of the included gun, and the 0.015-inch tip allows you to tackle a wide variety of tasks with ease. Lastly, this is a versatile model that can be used for latex and acrylic applications, whether you’re coating or painting.
Pros
- Decent finish
- Great for large surfaces
- Can be used for different paints
- Lightweight
- Cost-effective
Cons
- There have been some complaints about overspray
- May not work as well for smaller areas
3. HomeRight Finish Max C800766
With its powerful yet meek 400-watt motor, the HomeRight C800766 delivers quick and satisfying results, not unlike a vacuum cleaner motor. You can use it on pretty much any type of surface or material you like without worrying about overspray and this is all thanks to its low-pressure mechanism. This feature also gives it a higher material transfer rate.
Otherwise, this unit comes with everything you need including accessories that you can use to customize its performance. This includes things like a plastic viscosity cup that’ll help you figure out the viscosity of the material or surface that you’re working with so you can use it on the appropriate materials. For instance, this unit won’t deliver the kind of results you want if you’re using dense latex paint.
You’ll get a user manual that tells you the exact time values. You’ll just have to take a sample amount of the paint and run it through the cup to figure out how long till the cup gets empty. Then, you can make a comparison with the time shown in the timesheet in order to get optimal results.
On the trigger of this device, you’ll notice the control knob. This is meant to control the air flow so that the more you pull on the trigger the more powerful the motor gets. Plus, all you need is clean water to maintain it so it’s easy.
Pros
- Small and lightweight
- Easy to clean
- Great value for money
- Comes with extra accessories like the viscosity cup and nozzle-blower
- Features a spinning nozzle and three patterns to choose from
- Super easy to operate
Cons
- You cannot use latex paint with this unit
- Only works for small projects
- Some users say it’s too loud
4. REXBETI Ultimate-750
The REXBETI Ultimate 750 is basically an electric spray gun with a 500-watt motor. It’s perfect for spraying walls and ceilings and it works well for thick paint as well. It comes with three nozzles which allow you to create three spray patterns.
There are also several attachments to work with here so you can start using it for your various DIY projects straight out the box. The great thing about this sprayer is that it’s super easy to clean after each job and overall maintenance is a breeze.
It’s also simple to use with a regular garden hose. Otherwise, it comes with its own 6-ft. power cord which means you can use it from anywhere and work on your entire deck without feeling inconvenienced. If we were to recommend this to anyone it would be to beginner users. Not only does it offer a straightforward design that makes it easy to use but it comes with several beneficial features. This includes an extra-long cord that extends your reach and multiple settings that allow you to use it for different types of projects.
Pros
- The powerful motor makes this a versatile sprayer
- Can be used for big and small projects
- Offers adjustable flow control
- Simple to use
Cons
- There have been complaints about the tiny paint cup
5. VonHaus Electric HVLP Spray Gun
Are you looking for a cost-effective way to spruce up your deck? The VonHaus Electric HVLP Spray Gun could be the secret weapon that you have been looking for. This cost-effective sprayer is perfect for outdoor home renovation projects and although it’s cheap it actually works really well.
It comes with an 850-watt motor which means you can use it for large scale projects and yet it’s lightweight and compact enough for you to carry it around with ease. The spray pattern offers a wide variety of adjustments for versatile applications and all you have to do is press one button and it’ll start working its magic. Just make sure you direct the nozzle properly to get the results you want. When assembled correctly, this sprayer works great and doesn’t require any special expertise to use.
However, with all its great qualities, this sprayer falls short in terms of the variety of features it offers. After all, it is a budget option so it doesn’t come with all the bells and whistles of the more expensive models. It’s still worth considering if you’re looking for something to use on your deck and other exterior home projects.
You should also know that you’ll have a small spray to work with here which means it might take a while to go through large surfaces.
Pros
- Helps you achieve a professional finish
- Affordable
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- Works slower than most of the other models
- Doesn’t work well for interior projects
6. Wagner Spraytech 0518080
This may not be the best spray on this list but it can hold its own against the top players in the industry. Consumers love it because it’s easy to use and doesn’t leave you with a lot to clean up afterward. It runs quiet and features a metal can and a plastic can for your convenience. Refilling the plastic can be a problem because of its size and the sprayer itself is a little slower than what you might be used to.
Some reviewers have complained that this sprayer causes overspray regardless of how you adjust it. Lastly, this model is slower than all the other options on this list so if speed is a priority for you then you might need to look the other way.
Pros
- Beautifully designed
- Works for a wide variety of projects
- Settings are easy to adjust
- Runs quietly
- Easy to clean up
Cons
- It has an overspray problem
- Works very slowly
7. Chapin International 30600
This is a high-end sprayer from Chapin International that works especially well for staining outdoor wooden decks, fences, and patios. It’s made from tri-poxy steel and is equipped with a 2-gallon tank. You don’t have to worry about the steel and how it’s going to look over time because it’s corrosion resistant.
This sprayer is equipped with a nozzle kit that features 0.33, 0.5 and 0.25 GMP fan nozzles; as well as a curved wand, an ergonomic handle and two heavy-duty hoses that measure 42 and 60 inches respectively. The included funnel top is designed to simplify maintenance because it’s easy to fill and clean.
You’ll find that it’s much easier to get in between railing corners with this sprayer and it gets the job done much faster than a normal paint brush. To stain your deck with this, you’re looking at $50+ per gallon which is not bad because with that much you can cover 3 to 4 boards easily.
Pros
- The ergonomic handle design makes it easy to carry and pump
- Poly shut-off
- Offers medium, fine and coarse spray pattern thanks to 3x poly fan nozzles
- Works great with transparent stains, sealers and deck cleaners
- Features an impressive 2-gallon tri-poxy tank
Cons
- Don’t expect to seal decks with this one
How to Stain a Deck Using a Sprayer
- Preparation
If you don’t have a pressure washer, rent one so you can clean the deck surface and get rid of any debris that may be on it. Make sure you use a wide fan tip to avoid damaging your deck.
Once you’re sure the deck is clean, spray the deck stain and avoid getting the stain on other surfaces. The best way to do this in most cases is to cover the edge of the deck with a plastic tarp and hide any exposed walls nearby with a drop cloth. Also, place some type of protective cover on top of your landscaping and outlets as well.
- Spraying
It’s important to take your time when applying the stain and do it in phases. Start with one section and then move on to another, making sure to only cover 3 or 4 boards at a time. Work your way from one end of the deck to the other and don’t stop and start. Stay consistent in order to avoid creating unnecessary marks. Don’t be shy to apply liberal amounts of stain onto each area and brush it smoothly using your paint pad.
- Clean Up
As you soon as you finish the job, make sure to clean your tools and undo the coverings you placed to protect surfaces, landscaping and outlets. Replace everything you may have moved and immediately clean your sprayer to avoid wear and tear. Also, don’t forget to return your sprayer if it was a rental.
FAQ
- What kind of sprayers are there for deck stain?
Sprayers come in two different varieties. You have the airless sprayer and the HVLP sprayer.
- HVLP vs. Airless Sprayer – which one is better for staining decks?
With an airless paint sprayer, the material is pushed out of the device through a piston and subsequently squeezed out through the nozzle. If you don’t want the roller variety, consider the airless deck sprayer instead.
An HVLP sprayer, on the other hand, atomizes the stain through an air-releasing compressor. HVLP is an acronym for the words high volume, low pressure and this mechanism of action makes them an ideal alternative to the paintbrush.
Typically, airless sprayers work great for large surfaces while HVLP units are mostly used for staining decks.
- Can I apply deck stain with a garden sprayer?
Yes, you may use a garden sprayer to apply deck stain and a pump sprayer will finish the job much faster than using a conventional hand staining method.
- What spray’s size tip should I use to stain decks?
For the best results, use a small tip with your airless sprayer especially if you’re using it to stain your deck. A 211 tip works better for railings, while a 411 tip is perfect for decking.
- What is the best sprayer for semi-transparent deck stain?
The Chapin International 30600 is perfect for semitransparent deck stain applications.
- What is the best sprayer for solid deck stain?
Use the highly adjustable Fuji 2202 Semi-PRO 2 for solid deck stain projects.
- What is the best sprayer for oil-based deck stain?
This one’s a bit tricky but the versatile Graco Magnum 257025 should work well for applying oil-based deck stain.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it! Now you know what to look for in a deck staining sprayer and which options you should pick from. But, if you’re still feeling a bit stuck, we’re more than happy to recommend a particular option for you.
The REXBETI Ultimate 750 has a decent 500-watt motor and it’s versatile enough to use on ceilings, walls, and decks. You’ll be able to create patterns using its trio of nozzles and you can start using it straight out the box. It also features adjustable flow control and an extra-long cord that makes it even easier to use.
It’s suitable for beginners and experienced DIY-ers alike and a lot of consumers like it for its fast acting motor and smooth results.
