A combination of weather vagaries and time eventually takes a toll on many things, and our home timber decks are not an exception. There are many signs to watch out for that may alarm you when it’s time to revive your timber deck before further damage. Some of the most common include discoloration, flaking, and graying or blackening due to mold growth. The good thing is that virtually any timber deck can be revitalized as long as its structure is still sound. If there are signs of decay or multiple breaks, it may be time for a replacement. To be sure, you can always engage the services of professionals such as Surepaint: Premium timber deck restoration in Brisbane.
Before undertaking a deck restoration job, ensure a sound plan to cover all necessary areas. It is recommended that you plan the project over two phases, preferably two weekends, to ensure the prepped wood is completely dry before applying stain. This article will provide you with 5 crucial steps you can follow to bring back the glow of your deck. Read on!
- Inspection and Repairs
After clearing all furniture from the decking area, the first is to conduct an in-depth inspection process. An inspection will guide you on the scope of work to anticipate and aid your overall organization. Assess the structural strength of all deck parts that connect to the ground; This will determine if you’ll need a restoration to be done or a complete overhaul of the deck. Your screwdriver is handy for this; feel the ease it penetrates the post.
If still structurally sound, move on to inspect the connection of the deck with the house. Tighten and replace loose fasteners and screws while noting down anything worth replacing before heading out to your local hardware. Inspect all the decking boards and railings, too, and remove any weak or broken ones before any repairs. Remember to use suitable nails to avoid splitting the decking boards during repairs. Deck board replacements should also be similar to the type of wood previously used for uniformity.
- Protect your Plants and get Safety Gears
Since you’ll be using various cleaning solutions, you’ll want to protect your plants. Cover all nearby plants with plastic covers after watering them. Most deck cleaning solutions are plant-friendly, but you shouldn’t take chances. Ensure to remove the plastic covering as soon as you’re finished to avoid subjecting them to undue stress. It’s also pertinent to have all the relevant safety gears you might need. These may include gloves (that cover your forearms), rubber boots, and eye protection glasses. It’s also advisable to wear old clothes as there will be lots of splashing during the process.
- Thoroughly Clean the Deck and Railing
A thorough cleaning involves using your preferred cleaning solutions (preferably a biodegradable cleaner) along with a horsepower, or even better, a pressure washer. Most deck restoration companies have pressure washers and do a superb cleaning job. Be careful when using a pressure washer not to cause damage to the wood. Choosing a subtler nozzle like the fan type is advisable to the pinpoint type. Allow the deck to dry after cleaning. You can check this pressure washer rental company. If you don’t own a pressure washer at your home.
- Sand the Deck and Railing
To ensure that the stain adheres well on the freshly washed surface, you need to make sure that the deck is uniformly smooth. You can achieve this by thoroughly sanding the deck and railings to remove any remaining coatings. Use coarse sandpaper and sanding poles for the job and protect your eyes and nose from the dust.
- Apply Stain and Sealant
The final step is applying the stain and sealant. It’s crucial to do this under the right weather conditions for optimal results. Ensure the weather prediction does not predict rain as stains need time to adhere to the surface. Start applying the stain from the railings while ensuring the floor is covered with a plastic bag. It’s recommended to use a semi transparent oil stain for older decks. You can use a synthetic brush or a sprayer to apply the stain. After that, finish up by applying a sealer by using a roller. For the best maintenance practices, clean your deck semi-annually and apply a seal every couple of years.
Timber deck restoration is a great way to increase the longevity of your deck and is an affordable alternative to complete replacement. You can choose to DIY this project if you have all the necessary tools and know-how. However, for the best and long-lasting results, it’s always prudent to get the services of professionals with experience in the job. This will go a long way in saving you time and money and increasing the longevity of your deck.