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Quick Nav: Even decks made of rot-resistant woods, such as cedar and redwood heartwoods or treated pine, require finishes to minimize sun damage, mildew, and natural discoloration. Though some people paint decks with deck paint, most choose to take advantage of the natural beauty of expensive decking woods by applying a clear or lightly stained finish. If you do choose to paint, use a stain-blocking oil or alkyd primer first. In general, the best finishes are those that soak into the wood, not those that provide a surface film. A heavily pigmented, solid stain isn't really recommended for decking because it shows wear patterns and may tend to peel. You want something that really soaks in. There are three important characteristics to look for in a finish. First, the finish should be "water repellent" or "water proof," not just "water resistant." Second, it should offer UV (ultraviolet) protection. And third, if mildew is a potential problem, the finish should contain a mildewcide, which a "wood preservative" does. Regular preservatives should be reapplied once a year; newer and better "toner" products offer more UV protection and may last up to four years. Whatever product you choose, read the label to be sure it's right for your deck. Buy quality materials and follow the manufacturer's directions for application. Your result will be a deck that provides you with years of lasting beauty and enjoyment. Keeping a wood deck clean is a good way to avoid costly maintenance later. Debris that clogs the spaces between deck boards traps moisture, encouraging mildew and rot. Blast out the debris, using a powerful nozzle on a garden hose, then push out remaining debris with a putty knife or an old handsaw. Thoroughly scrub the surface with a sudsy mixture of water and laundry detergent, using a stiff fiber brush on a long handle. Work in small areas and rinse periodically. This may be all it takes to return much of the wood's natural tone. Is your wood deck stained or discolored? Several products are available for dealing with these stains and related problems. Commercially-available powder or liquid-concentrates have a base of non-chlorine bleach or oxalic acid; a detergent may be part of the formula. Bleach-based products eliminate mildew, acid-based materials handle graying and stains. Some products may darken woods such as redwood and cedar, so be sure to test any material in an inconspicuous place. Always wear rubber gloves, goggles, and old clothes when working with these chemicals and follow the directions explicitly. Caution: Never mix detergent containing ammonia with household bleach; the resulting fumes can be highly toxic. Deck Refinishing Resources
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