Sealing, Staining & Maintainence
You need to wait at least 2-3 weeks after completion of the project in order for the fence/deck to adjust to the outside humidity conditions and for wood to completely dry out (when the wood is cut down the moisture content is around 80%, it then adjusts to 8-10%).
Giving your fence/deck a light sand when it has dried out will open up the pores and the wood will absorb the stain or sealant better.
Darker stains last longer (you may need to re-stain every 2-3 years). Clear sealant or stain sometimes only lasts a year but usually not as noticable when it does need to be re-done.
Getting this done professionally typically costs about $2.50/sq. ft., but the results normally exceed those of do-it-yourselfers. We offer different grades of stain/sealant however prices will vary.
It is always worth thinking of the long term status. How much maintainence are you willing to do?
It is a good idea to go to your local paint store to get advice on what products to use on your deck or fence.