How to Waterproof a Deck

13 Aug 2020 Building Supply

Rebuilding a deck can be expensive and time consuming, so it is important to ensure that your deck lasts as long as possible. One of the biggest challenges for wooden decks in British Columbia is the massive amount of rain that we tend to receive. In order to combat this abundance of moisture, it can help to know how to waterproof a deck. At Country Lumber, we provide a massive variety of different decking products for both construction and maintenance and we can help you to ensure your deck looks fresh and finished for years to come.

Different Deck Waterproofing Products

Over time, the finish on a wooden deck can wear off due to foot traffic, sunlight, and moisture. When this happens, the deck can start to rot or mould, and it can also become discoloured and unattractive. There are various products that will help you to waterproof your deck, and the product you should use will depend on the finished look that you are hoping to achieve. Some of the different products for waterproofing or sealing a deck include:

·      Stain

·      Solid stain

·      Paint

·      Wood protectors/wood preservatives/wood treatment solutions

·      Timber oil

·      Waterproof sealer

Waterproofing Your Deck

Once you have selected your deck sealing solution, the steps to waterproofing the deck are as follows:

1.     Prepare the Area Around the Deck

Make sure that you clear off any old furniture, plants, or other obstacles from the deck before beginning. It is also important to cover any plants that are located close to the deck to ensure that none of the waterproofing materials can harm your garden.

2.     Wash the Deck

Using a pressure washer or a hose and scrub brush, clean off the surface of the deck. Make sure to remove any debris or grease that might be stuck to the deck’s surface. If you are using a pressure washer, do not hold the nozzle too close to the deck’s surface or you could damage the wood. Ensure that you get in between the boards when cleaning by using a small brush or scraping tool.

3.     Sand the Deck Surface

Use a sander with medium grit sandpaper to sand down the deck. It is most important to smooth out rough patches, but you can sand the whole surface to improve the deck’s receptiveness to the new waterproofing treatment.

4.     Apply the New Deck Waterproofing Solution

The application process will differ depending on what kind of deck waterproofer or sealant solution you are using. Many solutions will require you to apply numerous coats for best results. It is also good to observe whether you can use a sprayer or if you should use a brush. In most cases, you should use a stain brush and apply at least two coats, leaving 12-24 hours between coats and making sure to get in all the cracks. Inspect the instructions that come with your waterproofing solution or consult with a professional for more information.

If you are interested in learning more about how to waterproof a deck, or if you would like to find out about any of the other services and supplies available from Country Lumber, please contact us and we will get back to you as soon as possible.