Patios & Decks Guide
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Fresh Paint for Decks
from: SelfHomeImprovement.comOne way to quickly change the appearance of a worn deck and bring it back to life is by painting the surface. There are few home improvement projects that can improve the appearance and value of your home more than a new paint job. Decks are no exception and whether your deck is stained or painted, now is the time to think about a fresh coat of paint or fresh stain.
Before you get started too quickly, there are some tips and pointers you need to consider. Painting a deck takes some time and preparation. Preparing the surface is one of the most important parts of painting a deck - especially if it is older and there is some repair work to be done.
Follow these steps as you undertake this home improvement project:
1. Inspect the deck for boards and areas that need repair. Look for cracked boards, loose nails, splintered decking, and other blemishes. Sand, caulk, and fill in spaces where needed. Replace loose nails and make sure all boards are securely fastened. Patch any nail or screw holes that are left. You can use an epoxy filler to repair major problems with the woodwork that can't be resolved otherwise.
2. Sanding may be necessary to thoroughly clean the deck surface. Make sure your deck surface won't be damaged with sanding. Cedar and redwood are usually good woods for sanding. Make sure you take proper precautions with a face mask and goggles since pressure treated wood can cause health problems.
3. Cleaning the surface is especially important. Some of the better commercially available deck cleaners are Thompson's, Wolman, and ZAR. There are others that may be recommended by your home improvement store. After sanding, there will be tiny particles of dust and sand left behind. You must have a very clean surface to ensure a tight bond between the pain and the wood surface. If it is not properly cleaned, paint will crack and peel. Power washing your deck and allowing it to dry out thoroughly for several days is advised.
4. Mold and mildew can be a problem for some decks. If this is an issue, you must take care of the problem during the cleaning and washing process. You can buy commercially prepared products to remove mold and mildew. Oxygenated-bleach cleansers are a good choice. If these things are allowed to remain on the deck prior to painting, they will cause problems with the paint adhering to the deck surface and they can present major health problems. Removing mold and mildew is essential for success.
5. If your deck was varnished, you're in for more work! Check with your local home improvement expert for advice.
6. Once your deck is completely clean and in good repair, you can start thinking about the new stain or paint. There are oil and water-based stains and paints. Some painters believe that oil-based finishes provide more and longer-lasting protection, while water-based products are easier to clean up. Water-based products are also easier to manage in damp or humid conditions.
It's important to prepare the deck surface thoroughly before you begin with any new paint or stain. It's also critical that you only paint when the temperature is above 50º F. and make sure there is no rain in sight. Remove all furniture and plants from the deck. If there are plants around the deck area, protect them with plastic sheets or cloths to keep paint off of them.
Once you have a fresh new coat of paint applied to your deck, you'll enjoy the fresh new look you've created. Maintaining your deck takes a little time and effort throughout the year, but it is time that creates an oasis in your backyard for rest and relaxation. A fresh coat of paint will increase the beauty and value of your deck so get started now so you can enjoy the warmer months ahead.
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