How to Repair a Deck for Summer

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By 63miranda
User-Submitted Article

Article Rating: (4 Ratings)

Does your deck look worn?

If the weather has done a number on your deck and the wood looks cracked and worn, there are steps you can take to make it look new again. Once you've got the deck spruced up, you will want to show it off by hosting a summer barbecue.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

2-in-1 Wood Prep for deck, fence and siding
cleaning brush
plastic bucket
paintable caulk
putty knife
sandpaper or block
primer
deck paint
brushes
roller brush

Step 1

Scrub wood with a brush.

First, you need to clean the wood on the deck to remove dirt, old stain and mildew, mold, algae and fungus. A 2-in-1 wood prep product works best because it cleans and conditions the wood. Mix with water in a bucket according to directions. Scrub the wood surfaces with a coarse brush. Repeat if necessary. Allow the wood to dry.
Step 2

Fill the cracks with caulk.

When the wood is dry, use paintable caulk to fill in the large cracks. Use your fingers to work the caulk into the cracks completely. Smooth over with a putty knife. Do not use wood filler, because it doesn't last as long as caulk. Allow the caulk to dry and use a block sander to make the surface smooth.
Step 3

When the caulk is dry and sanded, paint over those areas with a water based primer. You do not need to prime the entire deck.
Step 4

Brush paint back toward the area you just painted.

When the primer is completely dry, use a brush, sprayer or roller to apply the paint. Keep directing your brush strokes back toward the wet paint you've already applied. When the paint is dry, admire your beautiful deck that looks like new. Send out invitations to that barbecue.