The Best Way to Treat and Maintain Your Wood Dealing

When it comes to treating wood decking, there isn't necessarily one best method. The choice or treatment largely depends on the exposure to sunlight, the type of wood, and construction details. What's important is to follow the recommended intervals for reapplication or to apply it more frequently, as needed.

Transforming Your Deck with Pigeon Food?

One humorous suggestion might be to cover your deck with pigeon food for a month and see the transformation! While not practical, it can be a playful way to think about the wood's appearance changes over time. Another option is to use a bucket of hot soapy water and a stiff brush for a thorough cleaning.

Staining Your Wood Deck

If you're considering painting or staining a standard wood deck, I can share my experience. Three years ago, I refinished both of my wood decks, and they're still looking great despite the harsh conditions in central Pennsylvania. However, they may eventually need another coat of paint or stain before the fall to ensure optimal durability and appearance.

Preparation and Application

The decks hadn't been touched in many years, so the old stain had faded, and they were extremely dirty. I started by brushing cleaning them with a deck cleaning product and hosing them down to remove the surface dirt. For a more thorough cleaning, I used a power sprayer to blast away enough dirt to expose the actual wood. One should be cautious with power sprayers to avoid raising the wood fibers.

After cleaning, I addressed some rotted boards by installing new ones and re-screwing the existing ones. To maintain the wood, I used a high-quality oil stain, which provides better color retention and durability. The stained decks look fantastic, but the color will eventually fade, and the decks will need to be refinished periodically.

Alternative Maintenance Method

For those who prefer to paint their decks instead of staining, it's important to start with a thorough sweep and a light sanding to ensure a smooth surface. An undercoat is recommended as it provides better durability and can make the deck look as good as new. After the undercoat, two coats of decking paint should be applied, and you can choose from a range of colors suited to your outdoor area. Finishing touches can be added with a rub of decking oil, which should be done a few times a year. This process usually takes about a day, and most hardware stores or Wilkos will have everything you need.

Conclusion

Choosing the best treatment for your wood deck largely depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you decide to stain, paint, or maintain the wood in another way, following the right process and using the appropriate products will keep your deck looking beautiful for years to come. Don't hesitate to experiment and find what works best for you and your home.