Deck Restoration FAQ
How often should a deck be refinished?
This answer depends on several factors, such as the age and type of decking material, your climate, the average amount of foot traffic, and the paint or stain formula that was applied. For a wooden deck to look its best and last as long as possible, we’d recommend refinishing it every 2 or 3 years. Northeast Ohio weather is all over the map, with extremes in both directions. Wooden decks take a beating and need extra protection and regular maintenance to make it to their estimated 10-15 year lifespan. Once your deck is refinished, yearly inspections will allow you to get ahead of potential future damage.
What are the signs of a deck that needs to be refinished?
Visible damage is your first clue. Look for cracks, discoloration, stains, mold, peeling finishes or fading, sagging, spongy wood and rusted fasteners or screws. But if you don’t notice anything after a cursory inspection, walk on your deck in bare feet and you’ll quickly learn if it needs to be repaired or refinished. Loose boards, splintering wood, raised nails and other signs will let you know that maintenance is required. Wear and tear over time is inevitable, but regular maintenance can help to stave off the need for premature replacement and give you a greater return on your original investment.
What happens during deck refinishing?
Our technicians will assess your deck to see what sort of maintenance is necessary to get it looking and functioning its best. We will replace rotten or damaged floor-boards, secure loose screws or fasteners, and thoroughly but carefully clean the deck’s surface, removing debris and dirt. We can assess areas to see if they need sanding, after which, we will apply a fresh coat of paint, stain, or sealant. Depending on the product, several layers will be applied.
DIY or hire a professional?
Our well-honed techniques and top-tier products and equipment mean that we can offer what the average homeowner just doesn’t have access to.
Our full suite of deck restoration services includes every step of the process–from power washing and repairing to staining and painting, we cover it all. Our skilled team can expertly power wash your deck to ensure that no damage is done. We can also handle minor repairs, such as replacing a few rotted deckboards, sinking loose nails and/or screws, and tightening up loose boards. We then paint or stain per your preference to reveal a professional finish that looks as good as new. We’re also happy to consult with you to find the perfect shade to complement your home..
Check out our deck refinishing gallery to see before and after images and get an idea of just how nice your deck could look. We have access to the best products and equipment that allow us to quickly but thoroughly get your deck looking as good as new. Believe it or not, it is actually very easy to use products that are too harsh and to use equipment to clean a deck that can end up being too aggressive and causing damage.
How should you maintain your deck after restoration?
Regular inspections and minimal maintenance should be all you need to do to keep it looking great until the next refinishing. Be quick to remove dirt, debris, and mildew, and never leave anything sitting too long on a wooden deck, as it can encourage rot, especially during prolonged times of seasonal moisture.
What does sealant do for wood?
Oil based sealants absorb into wooden decking, preventing excess moisture from seeping into the wood and causing damage or degradation over repeated wet/dry and hot/cold cycles. Paint, stain, and sealant can also prevent fading and drying caused by strong UV rays and other environmental factors. Regular application brings the best results and can even help to prevent damage from everyday wear and tear and furniture use, in addition to potentially repelling pests that break down rotting wood.
Is it worth it to refinish a deck?
Absolutely! Refinishing a deck is a small price to pay for extra years of use and enjoyment of your property. Regular repair, refinishing and maintenance is far less expensive and far more convenient than a total rebuild and can keep your deck looking good longer. That can help to boost property value and give you an alternate space to enjoy time spent with family and friends.