|
|
|
Advice on Waterproofing Your Deck
Tips on How to Seal a Deck for Keeping it Looking like New
By: Mark J. Donovan
|
|
Once you’ve constructed your new deck, the work
unfortunately doesn’t end there. Particularly if the deck was constructed
out of wood decking material you’ll need to waterproof your deck
periodically, usually every couple of years. Waterproofing your deck is
critical for protecting it against nature’s elements and to ensure it keeps
looking beautiful for years to come. Sealing a deck prevents water from
penetrating into the wood. If water is allowed to absorb into the wood, rot,
and mold and mildew growth is inevitable. It also protects the deck from the
harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun which can bleach out the color of the
deck and contribute to dry rot. |
Also, after spending a small fortunate on building your deck
you’ll undoubtedly want to protect your investment and ensure that it continues
to complement the exterior of your home, rather than detract from it.
Waterproofing the deck also helps to preserve the original color and beauty of
the deck.
Depending upon the type of decking material used you may need to wait a couple
of months for the decking boards to dry out prior to sealing the deck. This is
particularly true if using green pressure treated decking lumber. With other
types of wood decking products, such as redwood, it’s preferable to seal this
type of wood decking prior to actually installing it. Again, expect to have to
apply a fresh coat of deck sealant very 18 to 30 months, depending upon your
local climate conditions.
|
|
When waterproofing a deck make sure that the weather
forecast calls for clear skies and no rain for at least 24 hours, and
preferably 48 hours, after applying the deck sealer. Otherwise you may end
up with a permanently tacky deck. Also, make sure the deck has been
thoroughly swept and cleaned prior to waterproofing the deck. Preferably use
a deck cleaning agent with a mildewcide in it to remove any mold and mildew
growth on the deck surface. If you choose to use a power washer to clean the
deck, be careful not to damage the wood decking surface by positioning the
spray nozzle too close to the deck surface. |
Doing so can cause the wood grain to become damaged, which will
result in a non-uniformed look on the sealed deck
The deck surface should also be thoroughly dry prior to applying the
deck sealer. In addition, prior to applying the deck sealer, you may
want to first apply a deck cleaning solution to restore much of the
original color to the deck. Again, it is critical that the deck has had
time to thoroughly dry prior to waterproofing it.
When applying the deck waterproofing solution, make sure not to apply it
too thickly, or otherwise you may end up with a permanently tacky deck
surface. Peeling will also result in short order. I typically like to
roll the deck sealant on with a thin napped roller and then go back
behind it with a 4 inch wide brush to work the sealant into the wood.
After waterproofing the deck, wait 24 hours prior to walking and placing
deck furniture on it.
|
Find a Qualified Home Remodeling Contractor in Your Area |
|
Get Free Quotes. Easy, Quick and No
Obligations!
For the home improvement or home remodeling project that is
too big for you, check out our partner
NeedContractor. They are a national
resource for finding pre-screened, insured, and licensed home improvement and remodeling contractors in your local area.
|
|
|
Get Matched in 48 hours with Home Remodeling
Contractors! |
For more help on building a new Deck, see HomeAdditionPlus.com's
Deck Installation Bid Sheet.
The
Deck Installation Bid Sheet
will teach your how to hire the right deck contractor, and help to ensure that your
deck project is completed on time and budget.
How to Finance your Deck Project -
can help provide funds for your new home improvement project if financing is
required.
Related Information
Deck Price Quotes For FREE,
No Obligation!
Fill out our 3-5 minute quick and easy form, and receive a free price quote
on decks from one of our prescreened and licensed deck contractors. This process
is free and there is no obligation to continue once you receive your decks price
estimate.
|
|
|
