How to Maintain your Deck with the Proper Preparation

Guest Blogger #466, Entry #1092, April 13, 2012

Summer is right around the corner, and if you have a deck, you’re certainly looking forward to spending many hours outdoors, enjoying the sunshine and fresh air.

However, when it comes to maintaining the attractiveness of your deck, Mother Nature can prove to be a force to be reckoned with. During the winter months, snow and ice create constant moisture until you shovel – and perhaps scratch the surface of your deck in the process. Rain and sun also cause the material to expand and contract, sometimes causing the coating to deteriorate.

Helpful preparation tips for your deck maintenance

Image via: Architectural Digest

The secret to keeping your deck looking beautiful is surface preparation. There are three main methods:

Pressure Washing:

If your deck is free from chipping paint, then a good pressure washing to remove dirt prior to coating may be all that’s needed. After pressure washing, allow your deck to thoroughly dry for 48 hours. Then sand any loose wood pieces, and remove any dust that may have accumulated from the pressure washing before staining or painting.

Chemical Stripping:

If your deck surface is chipping or peeling, then environmentally safe chemical stripping might be the best option for you. Apply the stripper, and let it sit for the required time. Then proceed to power wash as described above.

Mechanical Stripping:

A three-head sanding machine is another great option to strip your deck down to the bare wood before applying the new coating. Before using the sander, be sure to make sure  there are no nail pops, as they can cause the machine to break.

Keep your deck looking great for years to come

Image via: Chloe Kurts.Pinterest

Now that your deck is properly stripped, you are ready to begin the process of coating. Don’t apply more than two coats of stain or paint, as too many coats can cause the surface to peel and crack. The bottom line: prepare the surface properly, choose the best coat for your situation, and enjoy your hard work by relaxing on your beautiful deck!  To learn more about surface preparation or how to select the proper color stain for your deck, visit Greenwich Painters.

Watch Stagetecture’s You Tube Channel for more DIY ideas