Everything You Need To Know About Sealing Your Deck In Winnipeg

Wood is one of the most popular deck materials. It has an appealing natural look and is relatively sturdy. However, it is vulnerable to weather conditions, and cycles of temperature fluctuations, rain, and glaring sunshine can take their toll. Untreated lumber may crack and warp due to exposure to the elements. Sealing your deck helps to protect it from the weather, making it one of the most important deck repair services in Winnipeg. Here are some tips for making sure the job gets done properly.

1. Don’t Get Sealant, Paint, and Stain Confused

Paint changes the colour of your deck and provides a measure of protection from ultraviolet radiation and moisture. However, since protection is not its main purpose, the protection usually doesn’t last very long. The stain has pigment to enhance the natural colour of your deck. It also offers some UV protection, but the moisture protection is moderate.

You can tell sealants apart from stains because sealants have a higher viscosity and do not contain pigments. They are intended to protect your deck from moisture but offer only modest UV protection. To enhance your deck’s colour and offer the most protection possible from moisture and UV radiation, you can apply a stain followed by a sealant two days afterward, or you can use a product that contains both. However, don’t assume that your deck is completely protected if you only stain it. If you do not use a combined product, be sure you apply the stain first and then the sealant.

2. Wait To Seal a New Deck for at Least 30 Days

The lumber from which a new deck is made contains preservatives that protect it from moisture. The preservatives require at least 30 days of dwell time before you can apply sealant. Otherwise, the wood will not be able to soak it in. Eventually, you will have to seal your deck, but you want to do so when it will be most effective.

Once your new deck has been sitting for 30 days, test the surface by pouring some water on the wood. If the water is absorbed, the wood is ready to seal and you should do this as soon as possible. If the water beads up on the wood, it is not yet ready to absorb the sealant.

3. Get Your Deck Ready Before Sealing

There are several steps you have to take to prepare your deck before you can seal it, especially if it is older. Inspect for any boards that are broken or loose and replace them. Scrub the surface clean with a power washer.

The top layer of wood could present a barrier that the sealant cannot cross easily. Once the deck has dried for 24 hours after power washing, use a power sander and a paper or disk with a grit of 60 to 150 to remove the top layer.

4. Don’t Apply Sealant to Surfaces That Are Frosty or Damp

While you want to seal your deck as soon as it is ready, you also need to wait until it is completely dry. If the wood is damp or frosty, it may not be able to absorb the sealant, which will form puddles and make a mess. If the wet or frosty wood does absorb the sealant, it may do so unevenly, resulting in splotches, which may not be dangerous but doesn’t look very good. Before sealing your deck, allow at least 24 hours for the wood to dry completely.

Let Handyman Connection Handle Deck Repair Services in Winnipeg

When you hire us to seal your deck, you have the peace of mind of knowing that it is completely protected from the weather. In addition to repair services, we also perform deck installation in Winnipeg.