When it comes to making the most of your outdoor spaces, there are few better ways to do it than with decking. It provides a solid area to entertain guests, decorate, or simply sunbathe whenever you feel like it!
However, as with anything, decking requires its fair share of upkeep. Years of enduring all types of weather will take its toll on anything, and your deck is no exception. Luckily, restoring it to its original glory isn’t a complicated process.
In this guide, we’ll be taking you through the four steps necessary to achieving a brand-new looking deck. Depending on the age of your deck, you might even be able to skip some steps. Read on for our full explanation.
Inspect for Any Necessary Repairs
Before attempting to renovate anything, you should check for damage. There will be signs of wear and tear throughout your decking for various reasons. Weather damage is the most likely culprit, but extended use can also take its toll.
What we are really looking for here is damaged surface board or anything that indicates a compromised structure. This means cracks, signs of rot, or serious splits. These boards will need to be replaced before you do anything. This will likely be the most expensive part of your renovation efforts, but it is the most important.
Make Sure it is Thoroughly Cleaned
Once you have completed your repairs, it is time to make sure your deck is sparkling. Most people choose to make use of a power washer for this, but make sure you know what sort of pressure to use before you start.
The type of wood your deck is made from makes all the difference. Pine or cedar are softer woods, therefore require less pressure, otherwise you can damage your freshly repaired deck. If you aren’t sure what kind of wood your deck is, err on the side of caution. If you don’t want to jet-wash at all, a garden hose and some deck cleaner can be an effective alternative.
Once cleaned, you need to leave your deck to dry before going any further. This can take up to forty-eight hours. Make sure you start your cleaning process just before a dry spell of weather, otherwise you will have to start your wait all over again after it has rained.
Sand it Down
Now that your deck is repaired and thoroughly cleaned, it is time to start sanding. When you choose a sander for a deck, you need to consider how soft the wood is. If you go at a cedar or pine deck with a heavy-duty sander then you are likely to do more harm than good.
Depending on how damaged or coarse your deck appears, you may choose to only sand the handrails and similar elevated surfaces. It is entirely up to you. Just make sure the deck is completely dry before beginning, otherwise you can damage the wood.
Apply Your New Stain
Last, but not least, it is time to apply a new coat of wood-stain. This will likely be the most satisfying part of this process, as it will give your deck that brand-new sheen. In the past, you would need to apply wood-stain and then a clear sealant over the top. These days, most products operate as a two-in-one. Always check the packaging to make sure.
Clear stains are popular as they can protect your deck without changing the color. However, these don’t provide UV protection in the way that pigmented stains do. Always carry out a patch test on your deck with a pigmented stain to ensure it is the color you want. They do not always match up to the label once dried, but you don’t want to realize that after painting your entire deck.
Go Restore Your Deck!
As summer approaches, you need to have your deck looking its absolute best. Impress family members and guests alike. The process may be time consuming, but it is relatively simply and so worth it. What are you waiting for?
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