Deck prep is an important part to re-doing any deck. Therefore, I will review the top 5 frequently asked questions when re-finishing a deck. Let’s review the questions…
- How long should I tell my customers to wait before they use their deck?
- What’s the best way to stain a concrete deck that is old and porous and has never been coated?
- How can I convince my customers of the importance of proper deck protection?
- Can I apply a water-based stain over a deck coated with an oil-based formula?
- Can I just use bleach to clean a deck?
Let’s dig in deeper on each question…
How long should I tell my customers to wait before they use their deck?
As a general guideline, if conditions are mild — the weather is dry and the temperatures are in the 70s — you should be able to walk on a deck in a half day to overnight. Again, that depends on which finish was used and weather conditions. I would wait at least 24 to 48 hours before moving patio furniture back on the deck and returning it to active use.
Deck prep on concrete: The exterior concrete deck I plan to stain is old and porous — my customer says it has never been previously coated. How should I handle this situation?
As always, you want to make sure the surface is completely clean and free of any grease or contaminants that could interfere with the adhesion. To make sure there is not a sealer on the concrete, just sprinkle some water on it in multiple areas.
If the water soaks in, that is the indication there is not a sealer on the concrete. Once clean, dry and sound, stain away.
If the water beads up, that indicates there is a sealer present and you’ll need to remove it. If not removed, your new stain, sealer or coating will likely not adhere.
Some of my customers understand the value and importance of deck care. Others think a “less-than-premium” finish every few years will keep it looking and performing as good as new. How can I convince them of the importance of proper deck protection?
You can start by reminding them that in the battle of nature vs. under-protected composites and wood, nature invariably wins. You can also remind them that maximizing their investment in a deck – and for that matter, their home – depends on a deck care program suited to their deck.
Previously stained deck prep: If a deck is already stained, does the stain I put on it have to be the same kind – in other words, is a water-based stain compatible with an oil-based formula?
Normally there are a lot of reasons for re-staining a deck. It may be worn-out, discolored, peeling and flaking. Or, you might just want to freshen up what was on the deck previously.
Since some stains and sealers do not adhere well to others, it’s best to start by removing any old stain or sealer with a stain & sealer remover. This will remove stains and sealers that could prevent a new sealer or stain from adhering.
The next step would be to use a deck and siding brightener to neutralize the surface and to bring back the natural color of the wood. Then test the absorbency of the wood by sprinkling water on the surface. The wood is ready to finish if the water penetrates into the wood quickly. You’ll need to do the process over again If the water beads up or does not soak in. Remove the stain or sealer completely. If not completely removed, your new stain, sealer or coating will likely not adhere.
Can I just use bleach to clean a deck?
We do not recommend bleach for cleaning decks, as it tends to be too harsh on the wood substrate and vegetation typically found around decks.
The type of cleaning needed depends on which cleaner we use. As always, read the application instructions carefully.
So Amigos, do you recommend any other tips on deck prep? Comment below…
Also, check out Paint Amigo’s wood deck applicator recommendations below (Amazon affiliate links)…
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