How to Coat a Deck

Though typically durable and able to withstand exposure to the elements, decks can weather quickly without the proper protection. Applying a waterproof sealant will keep your deck from harm and uphold its finish. Even those unfamiliar with coating a deck can complete this project in a few hours of work. Once properly applied, the sealant will protect the deck against the elements for a few years before another coating is necessary.

Garden hose
Deck cleaner (biodegradable)
Garden sprayer
Nylon brush
Deck sealant

Instructions

- 1
  Rinse off the deck with a garden hose to remove loose surface debris and make the surface amenable to even cleaning.
- 2
  Remove the top of a garden sprayer and fill the tank with equal parts water and deck cleaner. Follow the directions on the deck cleaner strictly, as some deck cleaners don't require dilution with water.
- 3
  Tighten the cap on top of the garden sprayer and pump it to prime it for use.
- 4
  Spray the cleaner onto the deck with even strokes and brush down the surface with a nylon-bristled brush. Rinse the cleaner off of the deck immediately and allow the deck to dry for three to four hours before continuing.
- 5
  Remove the deck cleaner from the garden sprayer and rinse out the sprayer with a garden hose. You may also use a separate sprayer if you have one available.
- 6
  Fill the sprayer with a waterproof deck sealant and prime the garden sprayer for use.
- 7
  Hold the tip of the wand 6 to 8 inches away from the deck's surface and spray on the sealant with long, overlapping strokes until you have covered the entire surface of the deck evenly and completely. Allow the deck to dry for 24 hours before using it.

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