Before applying any type of stain or sealer, the deck must be clean and dry. Start by using a wood cleaner that removes dirt, mildew and discoloration.
If there are splinters, rough spots or cracks that don’t come away with the cleaning solution, use a pole sander to smooth them out. Be sure to wear protective gear when sanding and working around power tools.
Prep
Before applying any sealant, it’s important to properly prepare the deck for resealing. This includes removing debris and dirt, sanding the surface to remove any rough spots and allowing the deck to completely dry before proceeding. It’s also a good idea to cover any plants or flowers near the deck with plastic sheeting or drop cloths. Find out more at deck cleaning companies in Maryland.
Use a wood cleaner to help remove any dirt, dust, mildew or other debris from the surface of the deck. It’s a good idea to work in small sections and always wear protective clothing, especially when using chemical cleaners or power tools.
If you have a stubborn stain, mold or mildew spot that won’t budge with your general cleaning, try a special wood brightener. This helps to neutralize any remaining stain or sealer and removes a wide variety of common contaminants, such as nail or metal rust, soot, tannin bleed and more. Apply the cleaner with a pump sprayer and let soak for 15 minutes. Apply again with the pump sprayer and scrub with a stiff synthetic bristle brush. Rinse with a garden hose and allow the deck to dry thoroughly before continuing.
Clean
A deck is an outdoor living space that needs to be cleaned and sealed regularly to ward off moisture damage, mold and mildew. Sealing prevents water from soaking into wood and protects it from harmful UV rays. A properly sealed deck can last up to 25 years.
To prep the surface for sealing, start by pressure washing. Be sure to use a low-pressure setting on a power washer so you don’t damage the wood. Scrub hard-to-reach spots with a brush and pay special attention to the edges of the deck where it meets the house or fence. Check for splinters and rough spots that need to be sanded down.
If you choose to use a chemical cleaner, spray it onto the deck as directed. Work on a cloudy day to prevent the sun from drying the product too quickly. Once the deck is thoroughly clean and dry, use a brush, roller or sprayer to apply the sealant, following the product instructions.
Apply
Wood needs protection to prevent water damage and the resulting mildew. A chemical penetrant can help. A sealant can also keep the deck looking fresh and new.
Thoroughly cleaning the surface is necessary to prepare the deck for sealer. This step can include brushing off any dirt and debris, or power washing. It may also include sanding the deck with a power hand sander or pole sander fitted with 100-grit sandpaper. This removes any remaining patches of old sealant and ensures that the new sealant will be absorbed properly.
Deck stains and sealants are available in a variety of tints and opacities, from clear to solid. Stains add pigment and block UV rays, while sealants simply offer moisture protection. Choose the right product for your deck. If you are using a stain, test the wood for proper absorption by splashing water on the surface. If it soaks in immediately, the deck can be sealed. If it beads up or stands on the surface, wait to apply the sealer.
Seal
Once your deck is clean and dry, it’s time to seal. Look for a product that is recommended by the manufacturer for your location. You will want to choose a water based sealant to minimize the chemicals it contains that may affect the surrounding environment.
Apply the sealant using a brush, roller or sprayer following the manufacturer’s directions. Start at the end farthest from where you’ll exit the deck when it’s finished to ensure even coverage. Avoid puddles or thin spots. Allow your deck to dry for 48 hours or longer, depending on weather conditions and the sealant you use.
If you decide to go with a transparent stain, like the Olympic Stain MAXIMUM Sealer, it allows the wood’s natural beauty to shine through while still providing great weather protection. This includes rain resistance and UV protection. It also comes in a variety of colors, so you can enhance the natural color or change it entirely. You can also select a semi-transparent stain that hides some of the wood grain while still offering good weather protection or a solid stain for maximum weather defense.