A Simple Step-by-Step Guide for Deck Refinishing

Imagine a sunny Atlanta morning, the air fresh and your coffee in hand, as you step out onto your deck—only to notice the wear and tear from years of good memories and harsh weather. It’s not just a deck; it’s where summer barbecues, family gatherings, and quiet afternoons with a book have made your house feel like a home. When your deck shows signs of aging, it doesn’t necessarily mean a complete overhaul is needed. Often, a simple deck refinishing can breathe new life into this cherished space.

Refinishing a deck is not only cost-effective but also a rewarding project that extends the life and beauty of your outdoor living area. Royal Deck in Atlanta has crafted a straightforward guide to help you transform your weathered deck into a welcoming extension of your home. Our process involves preparation, cleaning, inspection, sanding, and the application of stain or sealant to shield and beautify your deck.

Signs Your Deck Needs Refinishing

Like any beloved space, your deck requires a bit of care to keep it in prime condition. Not sure if your deck is due for a refinishing? Here are some telltale signs that it’s time to give your deck some TLC:

• Fading Color: Originally vibrant and full of life, your deck’s color can fade to a dull, washed-out hue after prolonged exposure to the sun and elements. This fading isn’t just an aesthetic issue; it indicates that the protective sealant has worn off, leaving your wood more vulnerable to damage.
• Splintering Wood: The joy of walking barefoot on your deck shouldn’t be a risky endeavor. If you start noticing splinters, this is a clear sign that the wood’s integrity is compromised, often due to the natural expansion and contraction of the wood losing protection over time.
• Water Damage: After a rainstorm, a healthy deck should quickly shed water. If you notice water pooling on the surface or the wood remains damp for extended periods, it suggests that the sealant is no longer effective. This retained moisture can lead to further decay, warping, or even fungal growth.

If your deck is showing any of these symptoms, it’s more than aesthetics; it’s about preserving the life of your outdoor retreat. Refinishing not only restores its beauty but also fortifies the deck against future wear.

Materials and Tools Needed for Deck Refinishing

Preparing to refinish your deck involves a bit of planning, especially when it comes to gathering the right tools and materials for the job. Here’s what you’ll need to ensure your deck gets the best possible treatment, along with checking the forecast to ensure dry conditions for washing and staining:

• Pressure Washer (optional): For a deep clean, a pressure washer can remove grime and old finish efficiently.
• Water Hose with Spray Nozzle: If you’re not using a pressure washer, a hose with a good nozzle will help you rinse your deck.
• Broom and Leaf Blower (optional): These are useful for clearing debris before and after cleaning.
• Paint Roller or Garden Sprayer: Ideal for applying deck cleaners.
• Stiff Bristle Brush with Extension Handle: Helps scrub the deck surfaces thoroughly.
• Paint Scraper: Useful for removing peeling paint or finishes.
• Hammer and Driver for Deck Screws: Essential for fixing any loose boards or protruding nails.
• Power Sander and Sandpaper: This is used to smooth out rough areas and prepare the surface for staining.
• Painter’s Tape and Plastic Sheeting or Tarps: To protect areas around your deck from stain or paint splatters.
• Painting or Staining Equipment: Depending on your choice of finish.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Includes dust masks, eye protection, hearing protection (for power tools), work gloves, and knee pads for comfort.
• Cleaning Agent: Choose a cleaner that suits the condition of your deck. If mold isn’t an issue, a basic deck cleaner that removes dirt and old stains should suffice. This step is crucial, as a clean surface ensures better adhesion and longevity of the new finish.

Your specific needs might vary slightly depending on the type of decking material you have, but the general process will be similar. In our next section, we’ll explore the importance of choosing the right stains and finishes to effectively complete your deck refinishing project.

Simple DIY Deck Refinishing Preparation Guide

Achieving a beautiful, long-lasting finish on your deck starts with proper preparation. Here’s Royal Deck’s guide to get your deck ready for refinishing:

1. Clear the Deck: Remove all furniture, grills, toys, and plants from the deck area.
2. Inspect and Repair: Check the deck, handrails, and steps for any damaged or rotten boards and replace them. Ensure all nails and screws are flush with the surface to prevent injuries from protrusions or splinters.
3. Secure Loose Boards: If you find bowed or cupped boards, remove the old nails and replace them with deck screws for a tighter fit. If a nail can’t be removed, drive it below the surface with a hammer and nail set.
4. Protect Surrounding Areas: To protect plants and shrubs near the deck from cleaning solutions and stains, cover them with plastic sheeting or tarps. Use painter’s tape and additional sheeting to shield your home’s siding and trim where the deck attaches to the house.
5. Cleaning the Deck: Apply a biodegradable deck cleaner and scrub the surface with a stiff bristle brush on an extension handle. Avoid metal bristles to prevent scratching the wood. Rinse the deck thoroughly with a hose and sprayer, or use a pressure washer with caution, starting with low pressure and a wide fan nozzle to avoid damaging the wood.
6. Address Water Issues: Ensure there’s no standing water on the deck. Adjust any boards that are collecting water by using shims or by increasing the gaps between the boards for better drainage. Check for and clear away any leaves or debris that might retain moisture and cause rot.
7. Brighten the Wood: After cleaning, consider applying a wood brightener to enhance the deck’s natural look and prepare it for staining.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your deck is well-prepped and ready for a fresh finish. Regular maintenance and careful inspection are key to prolonging the life and beauty of your deck.

Essential Sanding Steps for a Flawless Deck Refinish

After your deck has thoroughly dried from cleaning, it’s time to focus on sanding, an essential step in the deck restoration process. Sanding not only smooths the surface but also prepares it for the new finish, ensuring it adheres well and lasts longer. Here are our tips for how to properly sand your deck to get it ready for deck refinishing:

1. Preparation: Re-check that all nails and screws are flush with the deck’s surface to avoid tearing the sandpaper.
2. Choosing the Right Tools: Use a belt sander or orbital sander for the deck floor. These tools are effective for removing old finishes and smoothing rough areas.
3. Sanding Technique: Always sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid scratches that are hard to remove. Start with a coarser grit for rough areas (60-80 grit) and move to finer grits (120-150 grit) to achieve a smoother finish.
4. Detail Work: Use a sanding sponge for hard-to-reach areas like railings or balustrades, which might require finer sandpaper to avoid damage.
5. Clean Up: After sanding, thoroughly sweep, vacuum, or blow off the dust from the deck. This step is crucial as leftover dust can prevent the new finish from adhering properly.

Always wear a dust mask and safety goggles during sanding to protect your lungs and eyes from fine particles. A well-sanded deck not only looks better but also holds the finish longer, maximizing your investment and enjoyment of your refreshed outdoor space.

Step-by-Step Guide to Staining and Sealing Your Deck

After thoroughly washing your deck, it’s crucial to allow at least two full days for drying before you start the staining or sealing process. Here’s a straightforward approach to finishing your deck like a pro:

1. Staining Handrails and Edges: Use a paintbrush to apply stain or sealant to the handrails. Begin from the top and work your way down towards the deck surface to ensure even coverage. A paint sprayer can also be efficient and quick for broader surfaces.
2. Choosing the Right Brushes: Use a natural bristle brush for oil-based stains and a synthetic bristle brush for water-based products. This ensures that the stain is applied smoothly and evenly.
3. Applying Stain to Decking Boards: For the main deck area, use a flat paint-pad applicator, which helps apply a consistent layer of stain. Follow the product instructions for the amount of time the stain should soak into the wood before wiping off any excess with a rag.
4. Timing and Weather Considerations: Stain dries relatively quickly, so it’s best to avoid applying it in direct sunlight. This can cause the stain to dry unevenly or too quickly, potentially leading to a patchy finish.
5. Additional Coats: Depending on the wood’s porosity, you might need a second coat of stain for uniform coverage. Make sure the first coat is dry according to the product’s specific drying time before applying another.
6. Drying Time: Stay off the deck for at least 24 hours after the final application to ensure it dries completely without any disturbances.
7. Finishing Touches: Once dry, remove any painter’s tape used during the process. You can then return furniture and decorations to their places, ensuring not to drag items across the new finish.
8. Exiting Strategy: Plan your staining path so you finish at an exit point like the stairs to avoid walking over the freshly stained surfaces.

Expert Advice for Deck Refinishing by Royal Deck

By following Royal Deck’s expert steps, your deck will not only look refreshed but will be better protected against the elements.  With the right tools and know-how, you’ll be able to achieve a professional-quality finish on your deck.

For further advice on anything deck-related, reach out to our team at Royal Deck!