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The birds are chirping, the flowers are blooming, and the temperature is slowly rising, so you know what that means: Long summer days spent in the comfort of your backyard are right around the corner! Before you know it, barbeque season will be in full swing.
To prepare for all of summer’s outdoor festivities, you may want to consider giving your deck a makeover. Decks are constantly exposed to rain, sunlight, and shoes, so they require a lot of attention when it comes to maintaining them. A great way to rejuvenate your deck and make it look brand new is by staining it. Here are a few tips on how to restore your deck and make it the best-looking deck on the block:
Before you do anything else, it is essential that you prepare the surface properly. Whether your deck is old or new, be sure to clean it thoroughly a few days before applying the stain. Wash your deck using a wood cleaner to ensure that it is free of mildew stains, dirt, and other contaminants.
After cleaning your deck, let it dry for two to three days. Once this is completed and your deck is spotless, you are ready to begin the staining process. Before applying the stain, however, make sure the surface is absolutely dry. The stain must be applied to a dry surface or it won’t adhere correctly and might crack or peel.
Before you get too excited and make a day out of your project, check the weather forecast. Make sure there is no rain in the forecast for at least 12-24 hours after you apply the stain to your deck. This can damage your deck and force you to reapply the stain. In addition, don’t apply the stain right after it rains either. The surface needs to be completely dry in order for a stain to be applied. Wait to start your project until there is a sunny week ahead!
Taking your time may be one of most important yet most forgotten steps when it comes to staining your deck. If you rush through the process, you are risking many mistakes on your part. Take your time going through every single step, ensuring you don’t miss one. You should also pay close attention to everything you do to avoid any spills that can potentially ruin your project.
To avoid any careless messes on your deck, be sure to take your time, regardless of how slow it may seem. You should also take your time when it comes to preparing. Don’t rush into the project. Instead, you must be completely sure that the weather will be clear and that nothing will stand in the way of your newly stained deck.
Although you may think you’re a pro when it comes to staining decks, don’t forget to read and follow all directions. Every product is different and consists of different steps for application. At Ricciardi Brothers, we offer a wide range of products to meet your deck’s needs. After finding the best deck stain, take the time to read the directions and figure out how you will proceed.
Right after applying a new stain to your deck, it will look as good as new! But, don’t be fooled – this doesn’t mean your deck will look this way forever. It is still subject to weather damage, the footsteps of your guests, and the harsh summer sunlight. When it comes to protecting your deck, even a little bit of maintenance can go a long way. If your deck begins to show signs of damage, simply apply a wood brightener and you’ll be good to go!
If you are looking to give your deck a complete makeover before the summertime, Ricciardi Brothers has everything you need to transform your deck! Choose from our wide variety of deck staining options and exterior paints to get started on your next project.
This Memorial Day, we are having a promotion on Arborcoat Exterior Stain. Not only does it protect and beautify wood decking, its colors are also semi-solid, allowing the color and pattern of the wood to shine through. It’s the perfect stain to get your deck ready for all of those summer barbeques. Find your nearest paint store location.
