Everyone knows deck restore is cheaper and faster than the other option, which is replacing this fun and functional living area. Analyzing the problem is the first step to solving this dilemma. The next step is deciding what to do and the final step is making the corrections. Either way, the repair or replacement is soon done and this fresh air, outdoor living space is ready to be used again.

Analyzing the Problem

A contractor’s rule of thumb is local damage can be repaired while structural issues require replacement. Many problems are simple like a dingy, dirty surface or small problem areas like an over watered planter. If the issue is a spongy surface, large soft spots, loose nails, screws and railings or problems with joists and posts, the only option is to rebuild the deck.

Deciding What To Do

Deck Restore
A deck restore can be as easy as cleaning and sealing the surface while replacing decks requires an investment in time and money. By using a high-pressure power washing machine, water is sprayed on the wood and quickly removes years of dirt and grime. After the surface dries, applying stainng products brings vibrant life to tired wood. A special water protective product extends the life and looks of this wooden surface. If adverse weather caused the wood boards to warp or splinter, refinishing floors is an option. Special equipment sands the top making it smooth and level. Just as the process used for hardwood floor restoration in homes to bring ugly, rough boards back to gleaming beauty, the deck’s surface can be refurbished if it is made from pine, redwood, cedar or hardwood.

Deck Replacement
Replacing decks can be a do-it-yourself project or turned over to a contractor. Costs vary depending on the style, size, materials and location of the project. According to a survey done by Remodeling Magazine, the cost of a new 16′ x 20′ pressure treated wood deck ranged from $9000-$12,750 depending on the location. Pressure treated wood like southern yellow pine is less expensive while redwood, cedar, plastic and vinyl systems are more costly but have a life expectancy of 20 years or longer.

Outdoor living spaces make life exciting and easy. Whether it is a deck restore or replacement project, the time and expense to make this area safe and beautiful are wise investments. By investigating the issues and considering the different options, the homeowner will choose the best way to revitalizing this valuable area.

Chances are you loved your pressure treated wooden patio when it was first installed.  After years of adverse weather conditions and wear and tear, your deck has probably seen better days.  The stain has eroded, wood is discolored, and planks may have begun to lift from the structure of the frame.  Just because your wood has seen better days does not mean it cannot be restored.  Many homeowners choose to replace their decks entirely instead of hiring deck restore services. Deck Restoration is an affordable alternative to replacing decks and can bring your patio back to its original glory.  Understand which issues are minor and which issues will require a full replacement or rebuild.

1.  Underlying Structural Issues

The first and most important area to inspect is your deck’s structure.  There is no point to restore a frame that is not structurally sound.  If you are not familiar with the components of the structure, you may want to hire a professional to perform an inspection.  If the structure’s frame is deemed safe, hardwood floor restoration may be the answer to beautifying your patio.

2.  Wood Plank Problems

If your floor boards have started to split or warp, replacing the planks could be a minor fix.  There is no point in fully replacing a structure when you can simply replace a few planks to make your patio as good as new.  By nailing in a few planks and power washing the wood, professionals can move on to restoration.

Restoration

If the main problem is appearance and the structure is safe and sound, you can restore your deck rather than replace it.  Split boards and cupped boards will need to be replaced before professionals can start refinishing floors.  If your wood has chipping paint, refinishing professionals may need to chemically strip and power wash the planks before applying stainng products.  With the right machinery, a deck restore project can be completed over the weekend.

Restoration is much more affordable than deck replacement.  If you are tired of looking at your patio’s eyesore on a daily basis, invest in restoration services or products and breathe life back into the wood.  Once the project is finished, be sure to power wash and retreat the wood to prevent fading, cracking, and splitting.  If your deck is not structurally sound or you simply want a deck that is less maintenance, have your deck rebuild by a professional builder.

If you take pride in your home and you enjoy spending time outside when weather permits, consider the benefits of installing a beautiful deck.  Decks add value to your home and will add living space to your floor plan.  If you are contemplating the benefits of installing a deck, it is important to do your research to decide which style suits your home best.  You must also consider the cost of materials and labor.  When you hire the right deck builders, you can plan deck construction from start to finish with assistance from the experts in the industry.

Designing the Right Deck for Your Home

When you are installing a deck, you must consider the exterior design of your home.  Choosing a style that compliments the construction of your home is important.  If your deck sticks out like a sore thumb, it will be a detriment to the value of your property.  A qualified deck builder will be able to assist you in planning styles and features.  This includes choosing the most practical and affordable materials and additional features like railings and lattices.

Maintaining Your Existing Deck

Once you have a deck installed, you will need to maintain it.  It is recommended to power wash your deck at least once every few months to remove dirt and debris.  If you live in an area prone to snow and hail power wash your deck after the last snowfall.  Salt can affect the appearance of your deck overtime.  If you do not maintain your deck, you may have to invest a pretty penny in refinishing.

Refinishing Your Shabby Deck

Over time, you will need to refinish your deck.  Homeowners that fail to maintain their deck will have to invest in a deck refinish sooner than those who do.  If your deck has seen better days, you can turn back the hands of time by stripping the materials and power washing the surface.  Once the wood is stripped, you can stain your deck to make it new again.  If you are not handy or you do not want to invest the time, experience deck builders and contractors offer refinishing services.

A custom-built deck is a great investment.  Imagine lounging on your new addition during a warm spring day.  If you want to enjoy your exterior space planning is the key.  Price the average cost of building a deck in your area and make sure to maintain it once it is built.

The beauty in wood can be revealed in many ways.  Deck restoration, power washing, and hardwood floor refinishing are all ways to make that wood look new and keep it durable for a long time.  Using proper staining and finishing products will make a big difference in protecting wood materials both indoors and outdoors.  Many of these techniques are simple enough for homeowners to do themselves if they find the right products to take care of their needs.

Decks are most susceptible to the elements including wind, rain and sunlight in addition to regular wear and tear from use.  If the damage becomes too much, then some boards may have to be replaced.  However, one can preserve damaged deck boards by learning to straighten twisted boards and fix nails.  Finishing the job by scrubbing a deck solution into the wood so that it loosens dirt and bleaches out discolorations and stains is also important.

Power washing the decks as well as other wood surfaces can also help preserve them.  Power washers essentially work by breaking dirt and debris away from the surface being washed.  This process uses a combination of cleaning solution, heat, pressure and water flow rate.  All of these elements will affect the other.  In addition, it is important to know how to adjust each element to be most effective on the surface to be cleaned.

Hardwood floor refinishing is very important to interior floors, so one must use the proper products and methods for this area.  After making sure there are no carpet staples, nails or tacks in the floor, one can sand the floor.  Once the sand dust is removed, one may apply a finish if he or she prefers the natural look or a stain to protect and coat the floor in a different color.