Before and After

Spring time is just around the corner.  It wont be long and we’ll all be wearing shorts in the 65 degree weather.  Last summer and fall I had the privilege of updating or building decks for so many clients.  Call me at 513-404-8154 or email mitchellhomesolution@gmail.com or http://www.mitchellhomesolution.com.

Here is a before and after of a deck being brought back to life.

10 Easy Steps To Refurb Your Deck

1. UV rays penetrate wood, which causes graying. Deck cleaners help remove dirt, nail stains, algae and mildew. If your deck isn’t brand-new, always use a cleaner before applying finish. Lack of preparation is the most common reason for deck stains and sealers to fail. Don’t skimp on this important step.
2. Sweep off loose debris and clean between the cracks of the boards with a putty knife.
3. Wet surrounding plants and shrubs. Cover them with clear plastic sheeting to prevent spotting with chemicals. Also cover siding with plastic or paper before staining.
4. Use 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.
5. Keep the deck wet with cleaner. Don’t allow the cleaner to dry. Speed 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.
6. Allow the cleaner to soak into the wood. Soaking time is usually no more than 10 minutes, but check the product instructions.
7. Rinse the deck thoroughly with a garden hose or pressure washer.
8. Allow deck to dry at least two days before applying a sealer.
9. Stir the sealer or stain thoroughly. Don’t shake sealer. Bubbles will form in the finish.
10. Apply a thin, even coat of sealer or stain over a two- to three-board section with a paint roller with an extension handle or a sprayer. Two thin coats are better than one thick coat that doesn’t properly adhere or dry.