Spray Treatment of Decks

Advantages of Spraying

• Spraying a deck treatment on is quicker and usually uses less product than other methods, saving you money. The biggest advantage is that it provides even coverage of all visible surfaces as well as joints, seams, corners and crevices. When you clean the deck, spraying pushes dirt completely away and gets into grooves between boards; for staining or sealing it applies the coating evenly to the surface without pushing it down the sides of the planks like a roller or brush.

Cleaning

• Deck cleaners preserve the wood by removing dust and dirt that might otherwise be ground in and damage the finish. These cleaners can either be sprayed on using an attachment to a hose or pressure washer, or poured on, scrubbed with a deck broom and then rinsed away with a sprayer. If you spray on the cleaners, they should be rinsed away with clear water using a sprayer, because over time they can dissolve or damage the sealant if left on the deck.

Mold

• Mold removers can be sprayed on and rinsed away the same way as other cleaners, but the real advantage when it comes to mold is the application inhibitor. This treatment prevents mold and mildew from growing on the deck. Unsightly mold can leave behind permanent stains and break down the integrity of the wood if it isn't removed. Spraying on a mold-inhibiting treatment ensures that cracks and crevices where it could get a foothold are treated.

Stain or Paint

• Stain is absorbed into the wood and enhances the appearance of the grain, while paint remains on the surface as a solid color. Stain doesn't typically provide protection against the elements unless it also contains sealant, but paint seals the wood. Although these treatments are different, they both change the color and appearance of the deck and can be sprayed on with a paint sprayer. Using a brush or roller can cause stain and paint to run down between the boards on the deck, but spraying provides an even coating.

Sealant

• Sealant protects the wood against moisture and sun damage. It is usually clear, but can be tinted similar to stain to enhance the appearance of the wood grain. Sealant breaks down over time and needs to be reapplied after a thorough cleaning every few years. Spraying makes the job go faster and ensures even coverage. It also uses less sealant than brushing or rolling. You can also spray the underside of the deck, if necessary, to protect against moisture.