The deck is a superb spot to spend a lot of time throughout the warmer months of the year. By adding an approved deck heater, the structure can be used nearly all year long. Unfortunately, decks take a lot of abuse between the traffic and the weather. Every couple of years, the property owner will need to refinish the deck to help keep it looking wonderful, like it did after the deck builder first completed the structure. Typically, deck staining lasts from two to five years. The amount of stain along with the type, combined with the weather determines the frequency of the chore.
Most new decks are at first coated using a stain that is transparent or semitransparent. After about five years, the wood begins to wear and appear uneven so the best results are obtained by moving to stains from the semisolid or solid range. While they often look the best, all the stains other than the solid stain offer less protection. Unless using a solid stain, the deck will have to be restained every two years. As there is more prep work with the solid stains, they usually don’t need to be redone for five years.
Here is a basic four step process that you should follow when looking to stain and refinish you deck:
Step 1: Gather The Needed Equipment
Power Washer -Minimum 3000 psi and 40 degree fan tip
Pump sprayer
Trisodium Phosphate (TSP)
Rubber boots
Oxalic acid (Redwood decks only)
Step 2: Check Condition Of The Deck
Any cracked or loose boards will have to be replaced before staining. Choose exactly the same kind of lumber as the remaining portion of the deck and make use of stainless steel deck screws to attach the boards. If the deck is actually in very bad shape, it may be time for you to contact deck builders to reconstruct the entire deck. Trim shrubs that happen to be too close and thoroughly wet plants close to the deck
Step 3: Power Wash Carefully
The power washer is extremely powerful and can even cut gouges in the wood. It can hurt the operator and break glass with a direct hit. The 40 degree tip gives an even spread which enables it to clean the deck quickly. If you prefer not to use the power washer, think about a stiff scrub brush. While this takes longer, it can certainly effectively clean the deck. If you will be staining both decks and fences at the same time, use the same technique to prepare the fence for staining. Allow surfaces to dry for at least three days before staining.
Step 4: Apply Stain
When applying transparent stains, just one coat can be applied, unless the stain is still wet. Once dry, the wood is sealed plus the stain cannot penetrate.
Washing the weathered stain is all the preparation needed for applying the transparent stain.
Solid stains are more like thin paint and do not penetrate the wood. They remain on the surface as a film.
Solid stains require washing of the wood and scraping of pealing stains. Bare wood should be sealed before applying solid stains.
Reputable deck builders will construct a quality deck for a homeowner. These great additions to the outdoor living area will last for many years with proper care. If considering deck building call reputable builders for a quote.
Jasper Street has toured the world as a freelance writer, but has particularly enjoyed writing on a private deck at home. Jasper Street has written content articles about deck builder for Toronto Fence & Deck Building Company