How to Weather Proof a Deck

Weather proofing a deck can save a homeowner thousands of dollars in repairs and deck replacements. Making a deck weather proof should be done as soon as the deck is built, or as soon as it comes into your possession. Keep it weather proofed to ensure the deck will stay beautiful and will serve as a pleasant outdoor retreat for years to come.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Take everything off the deck, including patio furniture, rugs or anything else that touches the wood.

2. Clean the deck thoroughly. Use diluted bleach or a deck cleaner to get it as clean as possible. Rinse off the bleach or cleaner with a garden hose. Rent or buy a power washer for an even more effective cleaning.

3. Start with a smooth surface. Sand down any areas that need it, and get rid of the resulting sawdust with a broom and vacuum.

4. Let the deck dry completely. Leave the deck to dry overnight if possible to ensure that all areas are dry.

5. Buy a weather proofing deck sealant from a hardware or home improvement store. Follow the instructions on the back for the number of coats to apply and how long to let each coat dry. Apply the coats with a short paintbrush, and brush over any running sealer to give the deck an even coat.

6. Make sure to cover every part of the deck evenly, even the end boards at the edges of the deck.

7. Reapply as the directions state, which can range from yearly to every few years. Watch the deck for signs that it needs to be resealed.

Resources

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