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Caring For Your Wood Deck

Wood Decks are very popular today and well used.  Homeowner use their decks to entertainment, using it as an extension of the house.  Also decks are great places to relax and seek private retreat.  Obviously decks are an important part of homeownership.

 Because we want the best for our wood decks, its appropriate to ask;  Just what is the best or proper way to maintain my  wood deck and keep it looking pristine?

 In the real world, most of us are very busy taking care of the kids, vacations, work and more, leaving little time for deck maintenance.  Which means it might be better to have a deck that is more maintenance free such as composites and plastic decking.  No matter, your in love with  your wood deck and want to do what’s best for it, and that makes sense.  Nothing is like the feel of real wood.

 Lets examine what is available in the way of stains and finishes as well as discussing products to brighten and restore your deck to near new. 

 Waterborne products have made great strides in technology advancement .  its use for deck owners is the finish it produces.  It comes in clear, semi and solid finish in many colors to protect the deck from the elements. 

Waterborne stain is easy to apply and can be applied even in cold weather with excellent adhesion.  Be sure to give consideration to the resin used in its formulation, it can affect the performance considerably.  Some feel though that waterborne will flake in time.  I have not tried this product myself, although some in the industry swear by it.

 Other sources still prefer oil base stain products, it worked in the past and still does.  I have used them with good success.  No mater what product you use, decks require re- staining every year, sometimes 2 years and pressure washing before re-staining.  Otherwise you will eventually loose the battle to keep your deck in top notch shape. Be sure to buy a good quality deck stain, such as cabot's or dupont.  Check with your local paint store or home depot.

No matter what kind of wood your deck is made out of, it needs to be protected from the elements,  and to keep its color from turning grey/ black over time.

So ........Enjoy that deck!

See Wood Decking Maintenace/ Pressure Cleaning

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