Your deck is a very important part of your home’s outdoors. You can utilize it for family gatherings or weekend barbecues. It also serves as a great spot for relaxing during those quiet evenings. However, you are only able to enjoy these benefits if the deck is well-maintained.
One thing that you should definitely do on a regular basis is power washing. It does an excellent job of removing the buildup that can damage wood over time. Another important action that should follow power washing is staining. This is because it does an excellent job of protecting wood from moisture and UV damage.
Many homeowners make the mistake of staining too soon after power washing. However, this shouldn’t be the case. The reason behind this is that it prevents the stain from properly penetrating the wood.
This article gives tips regarding deck staining after power washing.
Power Washing and Deck Staining NJ
Why Power Washing is Essential Before Staining
It needs to be done on a clean surface. This is crucial because over time, outdoor surfaces collect a lot of components. These can be in the form of dirt and mildew. It can also entail pollen and old finishes. These elements may prevent new coating from bonding in the right way.
It’s for this reason that a thorough clean should be done. It helps eliminate these contaminants. On top of this, it exposes the natural grain of wood. Once this is the case, it will be quite easy for the stain to penetrate. This goes a long way in ensuring it distributes evenly and lasts longer.
Ideal Waiting Time Before Staining
After the surface is clean, it’s good to wait for some time. In New Jersey, moisture tends to linger. This is usually caused by the humid and coastal climate. For this reason, it’s a good idea to give the wood at least 48 to 72 hours to dry.
This is a process that you don’t want to rush. The main reason behind this is that water can end up getting trapped beneath the finish. This can lead to peeling or uneven color. It may also result in premature wear.
Allowing enough drying time can be quite beneficial. It will ensure better absorption and longer-lasting results.
How to Check if Your Deck is Dry Enough
Since you don’t want any issues, it’s prudent that you check on the surface. Make sure that it feels completely dry to touch. It should also not show any signs of dampness.
Another easy way to go about this is to perform the water drop test. All you need to do here is sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface. Next, take a look at how it behaves. If you notice that absorption takes place fast, then it’s ready. However, if the water lingers, you need to give it more time.
If you want a more precise reading, consider using a moisture meter. The main objective here is to make sure moisture content is below 15%.
Extra Tips for Long-Lasting Results
One thing you can do is to get a high-quality, weather-resistant finish. Make sure that the one you go for is well-suited to New Jersey’s changing climate. In addition to this, ensure the application is done in thin, even coats. This helps promote proper absorption and protection.
Another action to consider is regularly sweeping away debris. This goes a long way in preventing moisture buildup. This is quite beneficial as it limits the chances of fading or mildew accumulation.
You will also get incredible results from adding a protective sealant every couple of years. Doing this helps refresh the surface. It also strengthens overall resistance against UV rays and rain.
Proper timing is key to achieving a flawless and long-lasting deck stain. As a homeowner in New Jersey, it’s even more important that you allow your deck enough time to dry. The main reason behind this is that the region usually experiences humid summers and unpredictable weather. Therefore, if you don’t allow enough time, you can end up with very bad results. Since you don’t want that, allow up to 72 hours before staining. By doing this, you will be enhancing your deck’s beauty. On top of this, you will promote protection against future damage.
However, for the best possible results, make sure you are working with reputable local professionals. At Coastal Restorations, we understand New Jersey’s climate. We can hence make sure that your deck receives the care and protection it deserves for years to come.
