Waterproof Wood Deck vs. Not Waterproof
Waterproofing a wood deck provides vital protection against the weather. Even treated wood splinters and cracks with repeated cycles of wet and dry. Does this Spark an idea?
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Wood Decking
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Despite the availability of new waterproof decking products, wood remains the most popular decking choice for American homeowners. Wood decking is inexpensive, easy to work with and available in many different styles.
The Effects of Weather
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Waterproofing protects a deck from many weather-related issues. Besides cracking and rotting, homeowners who fail to seal and maintain decking often experience mold, mildew and algae problems.
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Wood Sealants
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Home improvement stores sell a variety of wood sealant products. Sealants use chemicals to form a barrier on the wood. Over time, sealants must be reapplied. Depending on the weather conditions in the area, they may need to even be applied yearly.
Alternative Sealants
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Traditional sealants often leave wood vulnerable around the nail, screw or bolt areas. Filling sealants not only treat the wood but also fill the holes. A variety of companies are now introducing green sealants to the marketplace, but most are cost-prohibitive for large wood projects like decks.
Rot-Resistant Wood Options
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Many woods resist rotting naturally. Cedar, white oak and locust wood are considered to be rot-resistant. Only the heartwood of rot-resistant species are completely unproblematic in an untreated state. Water repellents and sealers are still recommended to maintain a good quality.
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References
- Photo Credit deck boards image by Sirena Designs from Fotolia.com
