Does Your Wood Deck Need a Facelift?

7/27/2006

With the warmer temperatures upon us, backyards across the country are the gathering places of choice for many friends and families. Now is the time to transform your weather-beaten wooden deck from an eyesore into a beautiful outdoor living space.

Here are some simple steps you can follow to help give your deck that much needed facelift.

Step 1 -- Restoration. Tighten loose screws and nails and secure floor boards on your deck. Inspect underneath for mildew or rotting wood, and sink any protruding nails.

Step 2 -- Surface Preparation. A good cleaning will remove dirt, grime and the gray color from your deck. Use bleach to eliminate mold and mildew.

Step 3 -- Protection. To preserve that natural look, you need to protect your surface. A polymerized tung oil-based finish protects and beautifies exterior wood surfaces.

To create a fresh, two-toned look on your deck, finish your railings and posts in a different accent color.