How to Fix Wood That Is Feathering & Splintering?

Wood that is exposed to the outdoor elements, such as decks, will begin to show wear over time. This wear typically exhibits itself as splinters and a feathering of the wood. While these defects make walking on the wood uncomfortable, they also allow moisture to penetrate the weak areas. To repair splintered and feathered wood, sand it down to the undamaged layer and seal it to prevent further damage in the future.

Water-soluble wood stripper
Paint roller
Safety glasses
Pressure washer
Random orbit sander
80-grit sanding sheet
Broom
Water seal or waterproofer
Paintbrush

Instructions

- 1
  Examine the wood to see whether it is a natural color or whether it has a tint, which means it was previously stained. If the wood was stained, open a bucket of water-soluble wood stripper and apply it using a paint roller. Allow the solution to sit for the length of time indicated by the instructions to dissolve the stain.
- 2
  Put on safety glasses and attach a garden hose to a pressure washer. Turn on a pressure washer and wash the entire area of damaged wood to remove dirt and grime and to rinse sand from the surface. Hold the nozzle of the pressure washer no closer than 8 inches to the wood to prevent further damage.
- 3
  Allow the wood to dry for at least 48 hours to allow all the moisture to evaporate.
- 4
  Rent a random orbit sander at a home improvement store or tool supply company and install an 80-grit sanding sheet on it. Turn on the machine and sand the entire surface of the deck, pushing the sander in the direction of the wood grain or boards.
- 5
  Sweep off the deck with a broom to remove all sanding dust.
- 6
  Open a bucket of water seal or waterproofer and apply two coats to the wood surface using a paint brush or a roller to seal it against further damage.

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