Important Things To Know About Refinishing Wooden Decks

Summer is here, which means it's time to get your deck ready for all the outdoor entertaining you'll be doing. But if your deck has seen better days, it may be time to think about refinishing it.

Refinishing your deck can be a big job, but it can also give you great results if you do it right. To help you get started, here are four things you need to know about refinishing wooden decks to get the best results.

Know the Right Time to Refinish

Understanding the right time to refinish your deck is important for several reasons. First, weather conditions play a crucial role in the deck refinishing process. Ideal conditions are typically warm, dry weather. Excessive moisture from rain or humidity can prevent the sealant from adhering correctly to the wood, leading to an uneven finish or increased susceptibility to future weather damage.

On the other hand, very high temperatures can cause the sealant to dry too quickly, again leading to a sub-optimal finish. The sealant needs to be exposed to air for a certain length of time to cure properly, so any conditions that prevent this can lead to poor results.

Second, the timing should also align with the condition of the wood. If you refinish too early, you might be wasting resources as the existing finish might still offer adequate protection. However, waiting too long can lead to the wood becoming severely damaged and would require extensive repairs before refinishing. This could increase the cost and time needed for the project.

Generally, the ideal time to refinish would be when the wood starts to look dull, or the finish starts to wear off. You can confirm if it's time for a re-finish by sprinkling some water on the deck. If it doesn't bead up and absorbs water instead, it's probably time to refinish it.

Refinishing at the right time also ensures your deck is ready when you need it. You wouldn't want to begin a refinishing project right before a big event when you need your outdoor space.

Plan accordingly and always double-check the weather forecast to make sure you won't be dealing with too much rain or high humidity. This ensures that your beautifully finished deck is ready for use when you need it the most.

Choose the Right Finish

The finish you choose for your deck will greatly impact how it looks and performs in the long run. You need to select a finish based on the type of wood, the climate conditions where you live, and how much wear and tear you expect your deck to experience.

Deck sealants are available as either oil or water-based finishes—both have their advantages and disadvantages. Oil-based finishes usually last longer but can be more difficult to apply and often require proactive maintenance. Water-based finishes are easier to apply but tend to be less durable than oil-based ones. They can easily fade or peel, so they require more frequent reapplication.

You should also consider the finish color you want for your deck. Many people opt for clear or transparent sealants so that the grain of the wood is still visible, but there are also colored sealants available that can enhance the look of your deck. These sealants are ideal for decks with imperfections you'd like to hide.

Some sealants also offer UV protection, which is great for summer when your deck will see more of the sun. They help prevent fading and splintering, which keeps your deck in good condition for longer.

Knowing when to refinish, choosing the right finish, and applying it properly will ensure a successful deck refinishing job. But for a guaranteed high-quality finish, talk to us at Maynor Roofing, Siding and Home Repair Company. We specialize in deck refinishing and can help you get the perfect finish for your outdoor space. Contact us today to learn more about our services!