Deck Maintenance - The Restain Process
One of the fastest ways to add value and appeal to your home is to build a Ithaca wood deck in the perfect place. Decks are functional, add livable space, and can be a huge attention grabber in many homes. However, every once in a while a large task arises: the re-staining treating of the deck surface: a necessary task that must be completed in order to ensure the long life of your addition.
As with any maintenance process it is imperative to start with a clean and usable surface. Due to the fact that decks are outdoor living spaces and are even more exposed to the elements that our indoor rooms, decks can have a large build up of dirt, mold, and other organic material, and therefore it is important to keep the surface and under-body clean. The debris that becomes trapped in crevices and cracks trap moisture that can lead to the rotting of planks and boards, which is an obvious safety hazard if not addressed. A good cleaning will allow the stains and other preservative materials you use to be properly absorbed, and be sure that the products provide maximum benefits. However, despite the fact that many TV commercials advocate the use of pressure washers, this is against my advice. In my opinion, the high pressure water can erode the wood and cause lesions that will lead to future deterioration (if you must use a washer turn down the psi pressure). In its place use a stiff brush attached to a long handle and a mixture of water and soap or laundry detergent, which will serve to break grime and debris from their hiding places.
After your thorough cleaning, the deck should be allowed to completely dry before applying any stain or sealer. The standard seems to be around 24 hours, but I would recommend two or three clear days in order to ensure the wood is ready for the stain. When choosing your stain or finish be sure to look for these important attributes: water repellent or waterproof (not resistant), include UV protection, and contain a mildewcide to prevent the buildup of moisture. Be sure to follow the stain and sealer container directions properly in order to make sure you get the perfect look you were looking for, and to get a consistent look across the entire deck.
If you aren't feeling up to the work, or you simply don't have enough time, a professional washing and staining company is always a viable option. Professional companies have access to high quality equipment that will provide a clean, consistent, and efficient job. If you choose to go this route, be sure to have your contractor come out for a quote first to make sure you are aware of any potential problems and know exactly what you are getting. However, whether or not you choose to have the work done for you or do it yourself, a newly stained deck will provide you will countless days of leisurely enjoyment!