How to Seal Wood Decks

Many deck owners soon learn the frustration of a fading deck. If your deck is not properly sealed, it can become damaged by rain and faded by the constant presence of UV rays on its surface. Applying a deck sealer to your deck will help prevent wear and tear from showing, making your deck look better longer. For best results, it is important to prepare the deck with a thorough, deck-safe cleaning.

Things You'll Need

• Broom
• Oxygen bleach
• Water
• Bucket
• Mop
• Deck sealer
• Stir stick
• Paint brush

Instructions

1. Sweep your deck carefully with the broom on a dry day, removing as much loose debris, which will interfere with the wet cleaning, as you can.

2. Mix oxygen bleach powder and water in the bucket. It is important to use oxygen bleach, and not a chlorine-based bleach, as chlorine bleaches can fade your deck, negating the effect of the seal you will be applying.

3. Clean your deck with the mixture and leave to dry. Mop over the entire surface of the deck.

4. Stir the deck sealer thoroughly with the stir stick.

5. Apply the sealer to the entire deck using the paintbrush. The sealer serves both to protect your deck from rain, which can lead to rot, and also to help against UV rays which have the ability to fade your wood's stain, creating an unattractive gray look.

References

• Deck Sealer