Deck Sealing: Extreme Weather

Deck Sealing: Battling the Elements for Long-Lasting Protection

Your deck is your outdoor oasis, a place for relaxation, entertainment, and enjoying the beauty of nature. However, Mother Nature can be harsh. Extreme weather conditions can wreak havoc on your deck, leading to costly repairs and diminished enjoyment. Deck sealing is your primary defense, protecting your investment from the damaging effects of sun, rain, snow, and fluctuating temperatures. This comprehensive guide will provide you with the knowledge and tools to effectively seal your deck and combat the elements, ensuring its longevity and beauty for years to come.

Understanding the Threat: How Extreme Weather Damages Decks

Before diving into the solutions, it's crucial to understand the specific threats posed by different types of extreme weather:

• Water Damage: Rain, snow, and ice can seep into the wood, causing it to rot, warp, and splinter. Moisture also promotes the growth of mold and mildew, which can further degrade the wood and create health hazards. Deck sealer locks out moisture which is highly important for avoiding wood rot, fungus, or even mold. Once moisture damages your deck, there really is no going back [7].
• UV Damage: The sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can fade the color of your deck, dry out the wood, and cause it to crack [2]. Sealers form a clear film on the surface, which maintains the wood's natural finish [2].
• Freeze-Thaw Cycles: In colder climates, water that has penetrated the wood can freeze and expand, putting immense pressure on the wood fibers and causing them to crack [9]. When this thaws, the wood is left damaged and weakened [13].
• Extreme Temperatures: Rapid changes in temperature cause the wood to expand and contract, leading to stress cracks and warping [9].
• Humidity: High humidity can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew, while low humidity can dry out the wood and cause it to split.

Choosing the Right Weapon: Selecting the Best Deck Sealant

With a variety of deck sealants available, selecting the right one for your specific needs and climate is crucial. Here's a breakdown of the different types and their ideal applications:

• Oil-Based Sealants: These sealants penetrate deeply into the wood, providing excellent water resistance and durability. They are a good choice for decks in areas with heavy rainfall or snow. Oil sealers, after a second coat, can help prevent water damage or moisture building up in the boards caused by heavy rain [1].
• Water-Based Sealants: Water-based sealers are more environmentally friendly and easier to clean up than oil-based sealants. They also tend to dry faster. Water based sealers are much more eco-friendly and safer to apply [1]. They are less durable than oil-based sealants and may require more frequent application [1].
• Clear Sealants: These sealants provide protection without altering the natural color of the wood. They are ideal for decks where you want to preserve the wood's original appearance [2].
• Tinted Sealants: Tinted sealants add a hint of color to the wood while providing protection from the elements. The color from the stain helps block UV rays and prevent sun damage [13].
• Stains with Sealant: These products combine the benefits of a stain and a sealant, providing both color and protection.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Sealant:

• Wood Type: Different types of wood have different absorption rates and react differently to sealants. Check for a sealant specifically designed for your type of wood. Depending on the type of wood you are looking to apply sealant onto, you'll want to apply the right sealer [1].
• Climate: Consider the specific weather conditions in your area when choosing a sealant. For example, if you live in an area with high UV exposure, choose a sealant with UV protection [17]. For wet climates, exotic hardwoods like Cedar, Ipe, Teak, and Redwood are known for their natural resistance to moisture and insects [6].
• Desired Appearance: Do you want to preserve the natural color of the wood, or do you want to add a tint or stain?
• VOC Content: Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are released into the air as the sealant dries. Choose a low-VOC sealant to minimize environmental impact and health risks [4].

Examples of Sealants for Extreme Weather:

• Rymar Xtreme Weather Wood Sealer: Designed for harsh weather conditions, this oil-based sealer offers a durable, flat finish that lasts [4]. It is formulated for cedar, pressure-treated pine, redwood, and pine [4].
• Seal-Once Marine Premium: This sealant is ideal for decks exposed to moisture [19].
• DEFY Extreme Composite Deck Sealer: An extremely durable clear finish that helps prevent the return of black stains and protects against the damaging effects of water and UV radiation on composite wood surfaces [20].

Preparing for Battle: Deck Preparation is Key

Proper deck preparation is essential for ensuring that the sealant adheres properly and provides long-lasting protection. Skipping this step can lead to premature failure of the sealant and costly repairs.

1. Clear the Deck: Remove all furniture, planters, and other items from the deck [14]. Sweep the deck to remove loose debris.
2. Clean the Deck: Use a deck cleaner to remove dirt, grime, mildew, and any existing sealant [3]. For tough stains, use a deck cleaner with a mildewcide. Use a paint roller with an extension handle, a garden sprayer or a stiff-bristled push broom to apply cleaner to the entire deck [3].
3. Repair Any Damage: Replace any damaged or rotten boards. Tighten any loose screws or nails. Replace broken boards and screw loose boards tightly in place [8].
4. Sand the Deck: Sanding the deck will remove any remaining finish, smooth the surface, and open the pores of the wood, allowing the sealant to penetrate more effectively [5]. Use 80-grit sandpaper and a pole sander to buff away the top layer [2]. Sand in the direction of the wood grain [1].
5. Allow the Deck to Dry: Ensure the deck is completely dry before applying the sealant. This may take 24-48 hours, depending on the weather conditions [3]. Don't apply deck sealant if your deck is damp, wet, or frosty. To ensure that the wood on your deck is ready to be sealed, wait 24 hours after a rain shower or snow [2].

The Art of Application: Sealing Your Deck for Maximum Protection

Applying deck sealant is a straightforward process, but attention to detail is crucial for achieving optimal results.

1. Check the Weather: Choose a day that is dry and mild, with temperatures between 50°F and 90°F [10]. Avoid applying sealant in direct sunlight, as this can cause it to dry too quickly and prevent it from penetrating the wood [3]. You will need a dry day with moderate temperatures and hardly any sun [7].
2. Protect Surrounding Areas: Cover any plants or shrubs near the deck with plastic sheeting to protect them from the sealant [3].
3. Stir the Sealant: Stir the sealant thoroughly to ensure that it is properly mixed [3]. Don't shake sealer because bubbles will form in the finish [3].
4. Apply the Sealant: Use a brush, roller, or sprayer to apply a thin, even coat of sealant to the deck [15]. Work in the direction of the wood grain. Multiple thin coats work best to avoid pooling and to speed up the drying time [1].
5. Allow the Sealant to Dry: Allow the sealant to dry completely before using the deck. This may take 24-72 hours, depending on the sealant and the weather conditions [2]. Disrupting the drying process can affect how well the wood is sealed, and you could find yourself having to repeat the entire sealing process [5].
6. Apply a Second Coat (Optional): Some sealants recommend a second coat for added protection. Check the manufacturer's instructions [3].

Tips for Successful Application:

• Apply a thin, even coat of sealer or stain over a two- to three-board section using a paint roller with an extension handle or a sprayer [3].
• Two thin coats are better than one thick coat that doesn't properly adhere or dry [3].
• Don't allow the finish to puddle [3].
• Use a paint brush to apply the sealer or stain in corners and other difficult areas such as steps, railings, end grain and cracks [3].

Maintaining Your Defenses: Regular Deck Maintenance

Sealing your deck is not a one-time fix. Regular maintenance is essential for ensuring that the sealant continues to provide optimal protection.

• Clean the Deck Regularly: Sweep the deck regularly to remove dirt and debris [3]. Use a deck cleaner to remove any mildew or stains.
• Inspect the Deck Regularly: Check for any signs of damage, such as cracks, splinters, or loose boards [6]. Repair any damage promptly.
• Reapply Sealant as Needed: Depending on the type of sealant and the weather conditions, you may need to reapply sealant every 1-3 years [6]. Use the water test to check your deck every few months to ensure the sealer is still repelling water [3].
• Remove Snow and Ice: In winter, remove snow and ice from the deck promptly to prevent damage [12].

Special Considerations for Specific Climates

Deck maintenance needs to be adapted to suit specific climate conditions:

• Humid Climates: Use a sealant with mildew protection. Ensure proper ventilation under the deck to prevent moisture buildup [6].
• Hot, Sunny Climates: Choose a sealant with UV protection. Consider using light-colored stains or sealants to reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption [6].
• Cold Climates: Use a sealant that is resistant to freeze-thaw cycles. Remove snow and ice regularly [12].
• High-Altitude Climates: Incorporate expansion joints to accommodate temperature fluctuations. Use flexible fasteners [17].

Conclusion: A Well-Sealed Deck is a Happy Deck

Deck sealing is a critical step in protecting your outdoor investment from the damaging effects of extreme weather. By understanding the threats posed by the elements, choosing the right sealant, preparing your deck properly, and maintaining it regularly, you can ensure its longevity and beauty for years to come. Don't wait until the damage is done. Take proactive steps to seal your deck and enjoy your outdoor oasis, worry-free.

Next Steps:

• Assess your deck's condition and identify any existing damage.
• Research different deck sealants and choose one that is appropriate for your wood type and climate.
• Gather the necessary tools and materials.
• Follow the steps outlined in this guide to properly prepare and seal your deck.
• Schedule regular deck maintenance to ensure long-lasting protection.