DECKS RESTORATION TIPS

Cleaning and restoring your deck keeps it in top shape and avoids expensive repair work. In Mississauga outdoor decks are exposed to harsh weather such as heat and humidity. These elements can cause decks to many issues. Deck maintenance is much easier when it’s undertaken often and with proper care. DIY deck restoration is much easier when you break the process into steps.

Decks Restoration Steps

1. Inspect for Damage

Look for wood rot where the deck is close to the ground and more exposed to moisture. One easy way to check for wood rot is to push a small screwdriver into the wood, if it goes in easily then this wood needs to be replaced. Make note of where the deck stain has weathered badly. This is probably where it receives most of the sun and UV rays. When you stain the deck make sure to put a few extra coats on this area. Look for any dents and scratches on the deck that may need sanding before restaining. Lastly, check for rusty nails or screws that need replacing.

2. Deck Cleaning

Timber decks need great care when cleaning and you must use a cleaning agent specifically designed for cleaning decks. The right cleaning agent will effectively remove the abrasive dust and grit that sits on top of the deck. Removing this abrasive surface will stop your deck from further wear and tear. A deck cleaner combined with a pressure wash should be enough to clean your deck. If your deck has not been cleaned in over 12 months, a professional clean may be the best option.

If its a deck that has not undergone restoration work before, then you may need a different cleaning agent to remove old paint or stain.

3. Deck Sanding

Sanding your deck is the most important part of a deck restoration. As it is the step that prolongs the life and looks of your deck for the future. The best time to sand your deck is on a sunny day, and not when rain is forecast. If you have a belt sander go ahead and use it or alternatively a sanding sponge is fine. Have protective gear on like a dust mask and gloves. Double-check to make sure you have removed all the rusty nails etc and then go for it.

Sanding your deck will remove all the peeling deck stain, clean any mildew and thoroughly remove layers of dirt and grime. Meaning your deck is primed for maximum stain penetration. Plus allows the wood’s grain to look its best after staining.

4. Deck Staining

This is where you will bring out the best in your wood and highlight its grain and coloration. And of course, protect it from the weather and daily use. The most important part of staining or oiling your deck is consistency. The stain must dry evenly otherwise you will have a patchy looking deck. Don’t rush this step, it should take you the longest out of all of the restoration steps. For the best deck staining, look get applicators and brushes made from natural fibers and they transfer the stain onto the deck the best. Deck oil is a protective coating for the wood and the oil on the stain moisturizes the wood stopping it from drying out. When you select a deck stain it’s best to take into consideration the type of timber you have and how often your deck is used. And of course how you want the deck to look, a dark stain or wood color stain.

Start by coating the ends of the deck boards first and make smooth long strokes. Stain two boards at a time. Do not be heavy-handed with each coating, it’s better to have thin coats as they will dry evenly and look the best. Wait at least five days for the deck to dry and make sure it is not used during this time. And then stain the deck again.

Mississauga Deck Restoration

If your deck needs a lot of work or you simply don’t have the time to do the work yourself at Painters Mississauga, we are professionals in interior painting & exterior painting and are experts in fence & decks painting & staining work. Simply give us a call and we can give you a quote and timeframe. Often our customers tell us how much quicker we are than DIY jobs. Plus we have all the right tools!