Here’s An Opinion On:
Testing the Wood
by
bluestarcarpentryA water test is the easiest way to ensure that the wood can absorb sealer or finish. Sprinkle water on the deck. If it soaks in immediately, the deck can be sealed. If the water beads up or stands on the deck, your deck may not need sealing yet.UV rays penetrate wood, which causes graying. Apply a brightener and cleaner to restore the wood’s natural beauty. Deck cleaners help remove dirt, nail stains, algae and mildew. If your deck isn’t brand-new, always use a cleaner before applying finish.Carefully read the manufacturer’s directions before using the material, and follow all safety precautions and warnings on the label. Wear safety goggles, a long-sleeved shirt and long pants. Don’t wear sandals or open-toed shoes.Step 1Remove all deck furniture and other furnishings.Step 2Sand splintered areas with a pole sander with 80-grit paper. Repair or replace damaged boards. Make sure to drive in any popped nails first or even better, replace them with deck screws.Step 3Sweep off loose debris and clean between the cracks of the boards with a putty knife.Step 4Wet surrounding plants and shrubs. Cover them with clear plastic sheeting to prevent spotting with chemicals.Step 5Some cleaners require the surface to be damp before applying, while others require the surface to be dry. Consult the product label. For concentrated cleaners, follow the manufacturer’s mixing directions.Step 6Use a paint roller with an extension handle, a garden sprayer or a stiff-bristled push broom to apply cleaner to the entire deck. Don’t allow cleaner to puddle in any area.Step 7Speed up the process by having one person apply the cleaner and another person back-roll the deck. Back-rolling is a process in which one person uses a roller or broom to spread any puddles.Step 8Keep the deck wet with cleaner. Don’t allow the cleaner to dry.Step 9Scrub tough areas with a stiff brush or broom. Avoid using wire brushes or brooms. The bristles can break off into the wood and cause rust spots.Step 10Allow the cleaner to soak into the wood. Soaking time is usually no more than 10 minutes, but check the product instructions.Step 11Rinse the deck thoroughly with a garden hose.Step 12Wash equipment with soapy water. Rinse plastic sheeting with water and remove.Step 13Allow deck to dry at least two days before applying a sealer.A water test is the easiest way to ensure that the wood can absorb sealer or finish. Sprinkle water on the deck. If it soaks in immediately, the deck can be sealed. If the water beads up or stands on the deck, your deck may not need sealing yet.UV rays penetrate wood, which causes graying. Apply a brightener and cleaner to restore the wood’s natural beauty. Deck cleaners help remove dirt, nail stains, algae and mildew. If your deck isn’t brand-new, always use a cleaner before applying finish.Carefully read the manufacturer’s directions before using the material, and follow all safety precautions and warnings on the label. Wear safety goggles, a long-sleeved shirt and long pants. Don’t wear sandals or open-toed shoes.Step 1Remove all deck furniture and other furnishings.Step 2Sand splintered areas with a pole sander with 80-grit paper. Repair or replace damaged boards. Make sure to drive in any popped nails first or even better, replace them with deck screws.Step 3Sweep off loose debris and clean between the cracks of the boards with a putty knife.Step 4Wet surrounding plants and shrubs. Cover them with clear plastic sheeting to prevent spotting with chemicals.Step 5Some cleaners require the surface to be damp before applying, while others require the surface to be dry. Consult the product label. For concentrated cleaners, follow the manufacturer’s mixing directions.Step 6Use a paint roller with an extension handle, a garden sprayer or a stiff-bristled push broom to apply cleaner to the entire deck. Don’t allow cleaner to puddle in any area.Step 7Speed up the process by having one person apply the cleaner and another person back-roll the deck. Back-rolling is a process in which one person uses a roller or broom to spread any puddles.Step 8Keep the deck wet with cleaner. Don’t allow the cleaner to dry.Step 9Scrub tough areas with a stiff brush or broom. Avoid using wire brushes or brooms. The bristles can break off into the wood and cause rust spots.Step 10Allow the cleaner to soak into the wood. Soaking time is usually no more than 10 minutes, but check the product instructions.Step 11Rinse the deck thoroughly with a garden hose.Step 12Wash equipment with soapy water. Rinse plastic sheeting with water and remove.Step 13Allow deck to dry at least two days before applying a sealer.
Blue Star Carpentry has been specializing in custom decks for over a decade. When you sit outside with your family around you, enjoying the most beautiful days of the year, we want you to be on the deck of your dreams. For more info on
deck builder long island
visit http://bluestarcarpentry.com/
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