How to Refinish a Weathered Deck

Enhance the look of a deck with new finish.

After months of exposure to weather, humidity and sun, a deck begins to look weathered and worn. The appearance of an old-looking deck can bring down the entire yard, so it is important to refinish the wood to keep the deck and yard in top shape. Refinishing a deck is simple, and only requires a few materials to complete the task. Extend the life of the deck by properly maintaining the wood through cleaning and staining.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Hose
• Spray nozzle
• Putty knife
• Power washer
• Trisodium phosphate, if available in your area
• Non-chlorine bleach
• Protective gear
• Plastic sheeting
• Finish
• Paintbrush

1. Hose down the deck to remove any built up debris or dirt. Use a garden hose with a spray nozzle to remove any debris from between the wood planks, as the debris encourages rot or mildew when it sits between the wood. To remove stubborn debris, scrape between the planks with a putty knife. For heavily soiled decks, clean the surface with a power washer.

2. Clean the deck to remove any discoloration. A solutions of trisodium phosphate or non-chlorine bleach is effective for cleaning a deck, according to This Old House. Apply a small amount of the cleaning solution to the deck and brush away stains with a stiff-bristled scrub brush. Wear protective gear, such as goggles, breathing mask and rubber gloves, to protect against fumes and splash back of the cleaning solution.

3. Rinse the entire deck with water, either from the hose or pressure washer, and allow to dry thoroughly for about three days.

4. Apply the new finish to the boards. Place a plastic sheet over nearby plants or structures to protect against any possible dripping. Apply the stain onto the boards with a paintbrush, going in the direction of the grain. Allow the first coat to dry, then add as many coats as desired to achieve the look you want.

References

• HomeTips.com; Refinishing a Wood Deck; Don Vandervort; 1997-2011
• Consumer Reports: Q&A: Any Tips for Refinishing a Wood Deck?
• This Old House; Refresh Your Deck; Scott Schilling;