How to repair a deck?
09/22/2018by bestadminblog0
Starting your deck repair
Do you feel like your deck has seen better days? Unfortunately, the UV radiation from the sun, as well as moisture, are merciless even to the most resistant of woods. However, you can try to restore your once beautiful deck in easy steps. Start off by inspecting for severe damages. Don’t forget to look into the hard to reach places such as the ledger or under the decking boards. It’s best to use a screwdriver check for rot. If the tip can be fully inserted into a post or a joint, it is time to replace them with rot-resistant wood – a flat pry bar might come in handy here. Adjust any loose bolts screws or replace them if they are covered in rust. Also, don’t ignore the debris between deck boards. Grab a putty knife or a scoring tool and get rid of it. Now, it is time to do some washing.
Bring life back to your deck flooring.
Before getting to cleaning the surface, remember to put on eye protection and gloves, as you will be working with chemicals. Remember that there are different types of cleaners with each having its’ own strengths and weaknesses. For example, to get rid of the mildew and dirt you might use sodium percarbonate, but for iron stains, it is best to try oxalic acid. For the notably tough stains, it is possible to use a pressure washer.
Optionally, you can use a deck finish stripper to get rid of the old finish. Remember to use the substance as instructed on the label. You can once again use the pressure washer for rinsing. Once that is done, apply a protective finish to your floor. It is best to use a sprayer, and with a piece of cardboard as a shield for staining work your way from inside corner to the outer edges. However, remember that you might as well call for experienced deck contractors who will take care of your possession.