How long a deck or fence stain lasts relies on: sun exposure Decks and fences that get heavy afternoon sun will not last as long as a deck that gets little sun, or even a covered porch. how clean you keep your deck and maintain it over time -keeping your deck miildew free, debris free, keeping rugs off floors for extended periods of time) removing debris from between deck floor-boards – even though this is not stain related, but mainteance , this is SUPER important to prevent wood rot. Wood rot on deck floors, stair steps happens because debris – eg. leaves, tree debris gets stuck between deck floorboards and keeps the boards moist. Fungus eventually moves in, and the wood rot process starts. Keeping your deck debris free is vital to a long lasting deck. Think of it like flossing for a deck. Decks rot because food(leaves, debris) get stuck between the boards, so once a week make sure you clean your deck properly. Doing this small thing will ensure your deck stays healthy for many years. stain product selection – Deck stains last according to their Trans oxide pigment content i.e. – how translucent the stain is. To make it simple a semi-solid stain (the most opaque, most trans-oxide pigments) will last longer than a semi-transparent (normal deck stain a good amount of trans oxide pigments) Semi-transparent will last longer than a toner (basically translucent with very little trans oxide pigments). Using the right type of stain is one of the most important steps one can take when wanting a long lasting product. There are many preventative steps one can take to extend one’s deck and fence stain sealer, and paints life. Please contact your local Deck And Fence Refinishing And Restoration Professional For more Details.