Waterproofing a deck is essential for keeping this asset looking fresh and beautiful. Waterproofing decks should be common practice for home owners in order to ensure that the decks themselves stay in good shape over time. Leaving wood decks exposed to the elements can accelerate wear and tear, chipping away at the finish and making the deck look old. Wood absorbs water, causing mildew or mold to grow and eventually leading to the wood warping as it swells. Waterproofing decks give them the protection they need, guaranteeing a beautiful space for families to relax and be together. The top three ways to waterproof decks include using water sealer, waterproof membranes, and rubberized coatings on the surface of the wood. Read more to find out the advantages of waterproofing decks.
Using this method of waterproofing decks is fairly simple and inexpensive. After preparing the deck and stirring the sealer, homeowners can apply water sealer with a long-handled paint roller or stain pad. Multiple coats can be applied until homeowners are happy.
Vinyl membranes fit over the wood surfaces of decks, keeping them free from water. These are used more often for elevated or rooftop decks, as the water is directed to run off the edges, keeping the space under the deck dry.
Regardless of what materials are used, it’s essential for homeowners to prepare their decks for waterproofing. This includes inspecting the wood, replacing warped boards, sanding the deck, and removing all dirt, mold, and mildew. The deck also needs to be completely dry before applying waterproofing materials.
Homeowners who are passionate about do-it-yourself projects may want to tackle this job on their own, saving money but putting in energy and effort. Others who are not as confident in their renovation skills might want to hire professionals, spending a bit more money but saving time and effort.
The amount of time that waterproofing lasts depends on the materials used. Rubberized coatings and membranes may have longer lifespans than using sealer. However, waterproofing should last for a few years at least before needing to be redone.
Elastic or rubberized paint repel water and help keep the surfaces of the wood from becoming slick. Application is similar to regular paint, and may require primer and a top coat. This product is great for waterproofing deck stairs.
The best time to waterproof decks is when the weather is warm and dry. This allows homeowners to prep as they need to as well as allowing the materials to dry and set thoroughly.
The cost for waterproofing decks depends on a variety of factors, including whether this is done by a professional, the size of the deck, and the materials used. Homeowners need to carefully research these variables before deciding how to proceed with waterproofing decks.