9 steps to a great-looking deck
For chromated copper arsenate (CCA) lumber, use a clear or semitransparent finish if that’s what it has. If the old finish
is opaque, stick with that to avoid sanding. Refinish the deck before it peels or flakes. If it already has, consider calling
a pro. If you do the job yourself, the EPA recommends that you wear gloves, goggles, and a dust mask while scraping and sanding,
and that you clean up and dispose of all sawdust and debris.Clean the surface with a pressure washer. Use a wide spray pattern. Begin with the nozzle 2 feet away and move closer as needed,
but no closer than 6 inches to avoid wood damage.To save money, use a homemade cleaning solution: 1 quart bleach, 3 quarts water, and 3 ounces of TSP phosphate-free cleaner.Let the deck dry for a few days before applying treatment. For new decks, allow two to four weeks for the factory-applied
chemicals to dissipate completely before coating the wood with a deck treatment.Brush deck boards one at a time following the grain. Brush out any pools. Avoid brush marks by brushing from wet to dry areas.
If you use a roller, follow up with a brush to work in the treatment.Don’t scrimp. Use as many coats as the manufacturer suggests.Don’t rush it. Check the label for drying time between coats where a second coat is needed. And let the final coat dry for
at least 72 hours before walking on it or putting back the furniture.Keep rain from damaging the wood by sweeping away puddles.Clean snow from the deck using a plastic shovel to prevent gouging the wood and scraping off the treatment.
