Your deck is subject to all kinds of weather, and within a few years, it's easy to end up looking like you need a completely new one. If you want to keep your deck looking brand new for years to come, there are a few techniques that you can use. Some should be applied when you first install the deck, but the rest can be implemented as simple maintenance chores.
Let's start with picking the right kind of wood for your deck. If you love redwood or cedar, keep in mind that these woods are going to need to be sealed more often. Pine is the most durable, but then again, it will end up looking the roughest over time. The key is finding the right kind of sealant that is rated for your area. If you get a lot of rain, look for a heavy duty waterproofing sealant. If sun is the main issue, look for a sealant that is fade resistant. When you apply the sealant to your deck, make sure that you use enough and let it dry completely between coats for the best effect.
Now, let's move onto maintenance. The first step you're going to need is powerwashing on a regular basis. Don't blast off your sealant with too much pressure, but make sure that you do keep your deck clean. Light woods in particular will need some extra care to make sure they don't end up looking dingy. Aim for washing it at least once a month and more often in areas that are prone to more wind and dirt.
If your deck is already in trouble, don't worry! Fixing it is a snap. Most people can do this on their own and will not need the help of a professional. First, you'll need to completely clean off your deck and then sweep it to make sure that all dust and debris has been removed. If the wood is cracked, misshapen or overly rough, you're going to need to sand down these spots. This has the added benefit of revealing the healthy wood under the surface.
Once you're ready with either clean or sanded wood, you can either restain your deck or add new sealant and keep it the same color as it already is. Once again, allow for enough drying time in between coats and do it on a day where there is no wind to avoid bubbles in the finish. After the stain is dry, apply a least a few coats of sealant to give it a great shine and protect it from water.
If your deck never got these benefits in the first place, it's not too late to seal it for the first time. Clean it, sand it, stain it and then seal it. It will look like new in just a few hours. Decks do best when they are regularly cared for, so make sure that you schedule more than enough time in to do your part.
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Originally posted 2008-11-19 05:02:13. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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