Give Your Deck the TLC It Deserves
Let's be honest: when was the last time you treated your deck to the basic care it needs? A good wash can work wonders! This is the simplest step to rejuvenate your outdoor space.
Here are some easy steps to follow:
- Remove all furniture, plants, fire pits and anything else on the deck's surface.
- Sweep the area thoroughly to eliminate any debris.
- A power washer is essential for deep cleaning. You can use just water for a basic wash, but if your deck is heavily affected by mold and mildew, consider adding a cleaning solution specifically designed for decks and fences. Be sure to check your power washer's manual to ensure compatibility with other cleaning agents.
Selecting the Right Power Washer
Choosing an appropriate power washer is essential based on your intended use. We’ve compiled the most frequently asked questions from our friends @Powerplay.
Q: What factors should I consider when buying a pressure washer? When purchasing a pressure washer, keep in mind the following:
- The type of cleaning tasks you plan to undertake.
- The size and nature of the surfaces you will clean.
- Your budget and preferred features.
- The necessary water pressure and flow rate for your tasks.
- The engine or motor type and its power.
- The size and weight of the pressure washer for ease of transport.
Much like power tools, a general rule is that gas pressure washers offer more power. For cleaning treated wood, you’ll typically need a pressure of at least 1,000 to 1,200 psi.
You’ll be amazed at how simply cleaning can revitalize the appearance of your deck. But why not take it a step further?
Restain or paint your deck
Transforming Your Deck: Considerations and Solutions
Are you fond of the wood aesthetic? Do you wish to refresh the appearance of your deck? Is your current deck showing significant wear and tear beyond what staining can fix?
These are essential questions that can guide your decision on how to revitalize your wood.
- Painting your deck can effectively conceal imperfections. As our friends at Cabot noted, painting can put a “good face on the deck.” It’s crucial to choose the right product that will provide durable results, resisting crackling and peeling.
Choosing the Right Stain for Resurfacing Your Deck
If you're considering refinishing your deck and giving it a fresh color, here are some fundamental principles for selecting the right stain.
- Types of Stains:
- Transparent Stains: These offer minimal color change, allowing the natural wood texture to shine through.
- Semi-transparent Stains: These provide a slight tint while offering a bit more protection for your deck.
- Oil vs. Water-Based:
- For exterior stains, oil-based options are generally preferred due to their longer-lasting protection.
To see how various stains can impact the appearance of wood, check out these resources:
By Cabot
By Flood
By Ready Seal
Here are a few tips when dealing with oil based stain by Ready Seal:
- Pour buckets with the spout at the 12 o’clock position to avoid sloshing and spills
- When pouring stain into sprayers or other containers, always pour while standing over grass or a tarp, not over driveways or concrete.
- Use cardboard or spray shields to help control overspray.
- Because oil is lighter than water, wetting surfaces such as driveways, patios or plants prior to application prevents unwanted stains on such items. Ready Seal floats on top of the water, and will not soak into wetted surfaces. Rinsing areas again after staining washes away the floating oils.
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Now that you’ve completed a surface refresh, think about enhancing your railings. Adding post caps to existing posts can instantly elevate the style of your deck. |
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Proper lighting is essential for preparing your deck to host gatherings with friends and family! Have fun with outdoor string lights.
And if you need to provide added security, check out our line of motion sensor lights. |
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Visit your nearby Sutherlands, and we’ll help you find the perfect products to rejuvenate your deck. If your deck has seen better days, consult our building experts. Sutherlands offers hundreds of deck plans to select from. Wishing you a fantastic summer!
