DIY Deck Treatment

Outdoor decks are an ideal place to entertain guests and to enjoy your front or backyard. In general, decks are constructed of wood planks that are supported by wood joists. If the deck is enclosed in screen, the floor is also screened from the underside to keep insects out of the space. Regardless of the screen or overhead cover, the wood is still susceptible to moisture from rainwater and dew. This causes both wrapping and/or rotting to occur. To prevent this, you can treat or seal the wood deck yourself.

Broom
Dustpan
Orbital sander
Fine-grit sandpaper
Shop vac
Deck cleaner
Bucket
Scrub brush
Oil-based wood sealer
Paint tray
Paintbrush

Instructions

- 1
  Clear off the deck, removing any outdoor furnishings and decor. The deck must be completely empty before you treat it.
- 2
  Sweep the deck, using a broom and dustpan, and then gently sand over the whole deck with an orbital sander using fine-grit sandpaper to ensure that no splinters remain.
- 3
  Vacuum the entire deck with a shop vac to pick up all the sawdust from sanding.
- 4
  Wash the deck with a deck cleaner, using a bucket and scrub brush. Rinse the surface with plain water and allow it to air-dry.
- 5
  Pour oil-based wood sealer into a paint tray and apply a thin, even coat of sealer over the deck, using a paintbrush. Start in the corner farthest from the entryway to avoid painting yourself in a corner. Brush on the sealer, going in the same direction as the wood grain.
- 6
  Let the sealer dry for 12 to 24 hours, or as long as suggested by the manufacturer. Next, apply a second coat of sealer treatment to the deck in the same manner, going from the far corner to the entryway.
- 7
  Allow the second treatment to dry completely, and then replace the outdoor furnishings to finish the project.

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