Decks are a wonderful addition to any home, providing a comfortable outdoor space for relaxing, entertaining, and enjoying the fresh air. However, they are also subject to wear and tear from the elements, foot traffic, and other factors. That’s why deck maintenance is so important to keep them looking great and performing well. One crucial aspect of deck maintenance is resealing, which protects the deck from moisture, UV rays, and other forms of damage.
In this post, we’ll be discussing how often you should reseal your deck to keep it in top condition. By following the guidelines we’ll provide, you can ensure that your deck will stay beautiful and functional for years to come. So, let’s dive into the world of deck care and explore the topic of resealing frequency.
Factors that Affect Resealing Frequency
Several factors can affect how often you need to reseal your deck. Some of the more important ones include:
Climate
Decks located in areas with harsh weather conditions such as extreme heat, humidity, or heavy rainfall may require more frequent resealing than those in milder climates.
Exposure to sunlight
Decks that receive a lot of direct sunlight are more prone to fading and cracking and may require resealing more often than those in shaded areas.
Foot traffic
Decks that are frequently used or have high foot traffic will experience more wear and tear and may need to be resealed more frequently than those that are less frequently used.
Type of wood or material
Different types of wood or decking materials have different durability and resistance to weather and moisture. Some materials, such as composite decking, require less maintenance and may need to be resealed less frequently than traditional wood decking.
By considering these factors and assessing the condition of your deck, you can determine how often you need to reseal it to keep it in good condition. Regular maintenance and resealing can help extend the life of your deck and keep it looking great for years to come.
How Often Should You Reseal Your Deck?
While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how often you should reseal your deck, here are some general guidelines based on the factors discussed above:
In areas with harsh weather conditions, such as extreme heat, humidity, or heavy rainfall, you may need to reseal your deck every one to two years. In milder climates, you may be able to wait longer, up to three to four years between resealing.
Decks that receive a lot of direct sunlight may need to be resealed every one to two years, while those in shaded areas may be able to go longer, up to three to four years between resealing.
Decks that are frequently used or have high foot traffic may need to be resealed every one to two years, while those that are less frequently used may be able to go longer, up to three to four years between resealing.
Different types of wood or decking materials have different durability and resistance to weather and moisture. Generally, traditional wood decking should be resealed every one to two years, while composite decking may only need to be resealed every three to four years.
It’s important to note that these are just general guidelines, and you should always assess your deck’s condition and needs before deciding when to reseal. You may need to reseal more frequently if you notice signs of damage, such as cracking or splitting, or if you notice that water is no longer beading up on the surface.
Monitoring your deck’s condition and resealing as needed is important to keep it in top condition. Don’t rely on a set schedule to reseal your deck – instead, pay attention to how it’s holding up and reseal when necessary. This will help you avoid costly repairs and keep your deck looking great for years to come.
Related Post: How To Prepare Your Deck For Winter?
Tips for Resealing Your Deck
Preparing your deck properly before resealing is essential to ensure that the new seal adheres properly and lasts as long as possible. Here are some tips for preparing your deck for resealing:
1. Before resealing, clean your deck thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or previous sealant. You can use a pressure washer or a deck cleaning solution and a stiff bristle brush to scrub the surface. Allow the surface to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
2. If your deck has any rough spots or splinters, sand them down with coarse sandpaper. Sanding also helps to smooth out any uneven areas and ensures that the new sealer will adhere evenly. Use a finer grit sandpaper to smooth out the surface before resealing.
3. Before resealing, inspect your deck for any damage, such as cracked or split boards, loose nails or screws, or rotting wood. Replace or repair any damaged boards and tighten any loose hardware before resealing.
4. Cover any nearby plants or outdoor furniture with plastic sheeting to protect them from any cleaning solutions or debris that may fall during the cleaning process.
These tips ought to make resealing your deck a bit easier and more likely to be a success. Of course, if you want to make sure then it’s best to leave it to a reliable deck contractor.
Looking for a Reliable Company to Reseal or Repair Your Deck in Massachusetts?
Resealing your deck can be a tricky task for someone who has not done it before. And not everybody has the time to do it, even if they know how to. And that’s where South Shore Deck Builders comes in. We are a well-known and trusted deck building company operating locally.
You’ll have your deck resealed in no time with the utmost quality. You can reach us by calling 617-870-0678.
