By J. A. Young
No matter what kind of wood you’ve chosen for your deck or patio, all decking can use some type of protective finish. Most finishes may be chosen according to the look you want your wood to achieve. This article discusses various methods to finish your decking to enhance it decoratively, and also to protect it for seasons to come.
Whatever finish you apply, be sure that your wood has been treated with a preservative and water repellant so it will last from season to season. Even redwood and cedar should ideally be given a water repellant for the extra protection if promises. A popular preservative for decking is pentachlorophenol, which is both odorless and clear. It must be applied generously to all exposed decking and its substructure. It will soak into the wood quickly and it should be used as a primer no matter what finish you wish to apply.
Paint is often chosen for decks to either compliment the color of the house or possibly contrast with it for a decorative appeal. Choose a cool day devoid of wind to begin your project. The first requirement is a high quality paint manufactured for outdoor use. A quick-drying, self- priming paint like alkyd paint will be ideal. After you have applied your water repellant, apply a primer and finally your finishing paint. Be sure to allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next. For best results, use two coats of your finishing color.
There are a variety of stains to consider if you simply wish to enhance the beauty of the wood or desire a more rustic effect for your decking. A heavy bodied stain will show off the grain but obscure the wood’s texture. A light bodied stain allows the texture to remain visible. Both are fine to use. You will need to coat both with a sealer that is specified as “non-chalking” so it cannot be rubbed off by shoes or patio furniture.
Also, don’t stain right away once your deck construction is complete. It is preferable to let the wood stand out in hot dry weather for a good month making it better able to absorb the stain. You will also need to apply an additional coat of stain every two or three years as it will wear away in that time.
Finally, some deck owners who install a redwood or cedar deck want to achieve that weathered or bleached look obtained after a year or two in the elements. If you want to speed up this bleaching process, you can purchase decking bleach to acquire this look overnight.
Because you’ve already made a considerable investment by purchasing materials and constructing your deck, it makes sense to guarantee the life of your investment with a protective finish. For long life and beauty, protective finishes are a must for your wooden structures. Not only will your deck be more enjoyable, it will prove long lasting.
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