When it comes to waterproofing your deck, you can choose from a variety of different products. These can include sealers, specialized coatings, and rubberized coatings. However, you must be careful to select the right type of product for your deck. If you aren’t sure which one to use, ask a professional.
Waterproofing your deck can help increase its durability. You may also wish to consider waterproofing your deck as part of a complete deck restoration. This can improve your deck’s appearance and increase its value.
Before you begin a deck sealing project, it’s a good idea to thoroughly clean your deck. Remove any loose dirt or leaves. It’s also important to power wash your deck to remove any surface dust and residue. Once your deck is clean, it’s time to apply the deck sealant.
It’s important to apply the deck sealant on a dry day. You should also wait 48 hours before you put any furniture on your deck. Also, be sure to remove any drop cloths, tools, or anything else from the deck to avoid any contamination. Then, remove any plants that you have on your deck and allow the space to dry.
When applying the deck sealant, be sure to work in the direction of the wood’s grain. This will give you a nice, uniform finish. Using a paint roller will make it easy to roll the sealant onto the floor. After applying the deck sealant, it should take about four hours before it begins to dry. During the drying process, you should place caution tape across the entrance to your deck.
Depending on the weather and the amount of foot traffic your deck receives, you’ll need to reseal your deck every three to five years. If you live in a cold climate, freeze/thaw cycles can also add additional challenges.
To determine whether you need to reseal your deck, you can perform a water test. Several experts recommend performing a test on your deck once a month. By placing a few droplets of water on your deck, you can see if any have made their way to the floor.
Another sign you might need to reseal your deck is if your deck is showing signs of wear. Your deck’s wood might need to be sanded or refinished. Additionally, you might notice that the water is soaking into the wood instead of dripping off of it. Fortunately, a deck waterproofing product like Woodsman(r) Wood-Toned UV Wood Sealer and Protector can provide waterproofing for your deck.
If you decide to reseal your deck yourself, keep in mind that it will take a few days for the sealant to dry. You can return any furniture you have on the deck after the sealant has cured. But, you’ll want to avoid putting any potted plants or other items on the deck until the day after you have completed the sealing project.
In addition to extending the life of your deck, waterproofing it can also help prevent future water stains. If you’ve already noticed a water stain on your deck, you might be able to eliminate it with some sanding and a good pressure washer.