
Cleaning, sanding and fresh stain or sealer that bring back wood color and protect it from sun and rain.
Wood outdoors needs protection. Sun bleaches it, rain soaks it and mildew stains it. A good stain or sealer slows all of this, and it needs to be renewed every few years. Doing it well makes the difference between wood that lasts and wood that fails early.
We clean the pergola, remove loose finish, sand rough areas, repair small defects and apply a quality stain or sealer by brush, roller or sprayer. We choose products that suit the wood and the sun exposure, seal end grain and tops of beams where water hits hardest and give you a schedule for the next coat. The finish is the first line of defense for wood, and it deserves the same care as the structure. We test a small area to confirm color before covering the whole pergola, work in dry weather with moderate temperatures and back-brush each coat so that the product soaks into the grain. We note the product and color used, so that touch-ups in the coming years match what is on the wood today.
Finish only lasts on clean, dry wood. We wash off dirt and mildew, let the wood dry and sand where needed.
Transparent sealers show grain and need more frequent renewal. Semi-transparent stains add color and last longer. Solid stains hide wood and last longest.
Brush and roller work finish into the wood and give an even look. We protect nearby surfaces and plants from drips.
We tell you when to inspect and renew the finish so small touch-ups prevent big projects.
Drag the handle to compare.

BeforeAfterCleaned, dried and sanded.
Transparent to solid.
Where water does most harm.
Chosen for your exposure.
Know when to recoat.
Surroundings protected.
Every topic has its own page with what to expect and how we approach it.
Material guideCedarCedar is the classic pergola wood for good reasons. Here is how it looks, ages and holds up…Learn more
Material guideTreated PinePressure-treated pine is the budget-friendly workhorse. Here is how to get the best look and life from it.Learn more
Project situationBackyard PatiosA patio with no shade is a patio nobody uses in July. Here is how a pergola turns…Learn more Pick your material and sun exposure to see when to wash, seal and inspect.
You tell us about the yard, the timeline and any concerns, and we set a time to visit that fits your day.
We walk the yard, study the sun and the house, take measurements and draw a plan with sizes and materials.
We write the scope, coordinate permits and HOA approvals, locate utilities and prepare the site.
Footings are poured, posts set plumb and beams and rafters go up in a planned order.
We stain or paint, add lights and features as planned and clean the site thoroughly.
We walk the finished pergola with you, share care tips and leave you to enjoy the shade.
Every two to four years for many finishes, depending on sun and product.
Often yes, going darker is easiest. We advise on options.
Yes, after it dries to the manufacturer guidance.
Often a light sanding helps. We assess the wood.
A day or two for most pergolas, plus drying time.
Cleaning and Pressure WashingGentle cleaning of wood, aluminum and vinyl to remove mildew, pollen and grime without damaging the surface.Explore
Pergola Repair and RestorationRotted posts, loose beams and worn finishes fixed properly so an older pergola gets years of new life.Explore
Cedar and Wood PergolasWarm, natural timber structures in cedar and other woods, finished to bring out the grain and built to…Explore
Inspection and Maintenance PlansA yearly check of posts, beams, fasteners, finishes and fabrics, with small fixes done before they become big…Explore Tell us about the project and we will call you back to talk it through.
Or call (615) 357-7797 to talk now.