Exterior Wood Restoration Process
Decks Etc assesses each exterior wood project to determine the best approach
in restoring your structure. Utilizing a comprehensive three step
process, Decks Etc.
ensures that your project is given the attention needed to provide you with years of
worry free protection and beauty. Only the
best cleaners, chemicals and sealers
will be used for your project.
Step 1: Treat and Powerwash
If the structure has a previous sealer/ stain on the wood then it must be removed unless the same stain (brand and color) is applied. If the stain is not removed not only will there be color variations and a non-uniform coating but also stains can have a chemical reaction to one another resulting in the new stain failing prematurely. Decks Etc. will treat the wood with a stripping agent and then powerwash it to remove the existing sealer along with dirt, algae, mildew etc.
Structures without an existing stain/ sealer will be treated with a specialized wood cleaner and powerwashed to remove grayed surface fibers, dirt, mildew etc.
Step 2: Preparation
Screws and nails are recessed in to the wood. Next a brightening agent is used to lighten the color of the wood and neutralize the PH levels so that the wood will better accept the new sealer/stain. As a result the sealer/stain can penetrate better in to the wood, the color will remain uniform, and the stain will protect your wood for the maximum amount of time. Log homes and wood siding homes will be sanded down with Belt sanders and the Osbourne Brush to defelt the wood. Deck Floor boards and railing will be spot sanded to minimize fuzzing of the wood. Deck boards can be flipped or replaced and more extensive sanding of the deck is available at an additional cost if needed.
Step 3: Seal/Stain
Once the wood has sufficiently dried (at least 24 hrs. of no rain) the next step is to stain and seal the wood. All vegetation around the exterior wood and anything else that may come in contact with the stain during this process is protected. The exterior wood is then sprayed and back-brushed or rolled and brushed. This process allows the stain to be manually worked in to the wood pores resulting in maximum protection. Decks Etc. uses contractor grade sealers which generally lasts 2-4 years on horizontal surfaces and 3-5 years on vertical surfaces. Life expectancy of ANY sealer is dependent on the wood's exposure to the elements.
THE WEATHERING PROCESS
The sun, precipitation and temperature fluctuations begin damaging wood fibers immediately. Moisture from morning dew, snow
and rain cause wood to soften and swell. The sun dries and hardens the wood causing it to shrink and contract. These daily
cycles of expanding and contratcting cause wood to crack, split, warp and check. This premature deterioration is not only
unsightly, but can lead to expensive repairs.
Log Homes and Wood Siding Photos Decks and More Photos
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