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Staining Sealing Painting
Written by Colleen Kalil

All Decked Out!

Staining Sealing PaintingCommercial and residential painting services’ is an expansive heading. There are so many different options customers can request that often don’t come to mind immediately. One great example of this is painting, staining or sealing a deck.

A deck is an outdoor addition to a home. It usually extends out from one of the home’s floor levels. They are most often made from wood or composite materials. This may include wood that is pressure-treated, an option that some home owners may avoid because of the chemicals involved in the development of this material. In other instances, the homeowner may turn to cedar – a lovely alternative except that it is more easily damaged, even though it is more resistant to rotting. Yet another choice is what is known as ipe. This is a type of wood from South America and its attributes include rot-resistance and solidness, although it is noticeably more expensive.

The downside of having a deck is the unavoidable beating it takes in any weather. In climates that are highly sunny, it can cause the deck to dry out and fade quickly. Humidity, rain, sleet and snow are equally as damaging. So, if you put your hard-earned money into building a deck, or if one already comes with the home you purchased, it requires proper attending to and maintenance – usually in the form of painting, sealing or staining. While a deck may seem to be a simple undertaking, painting and staining are actually a challenge, no matter what size the deck.

When determining your path to refreshing your deck, think about what you want the final presentation to be, such as the color of paint or stain, or if you simply want to put on a clear sealant allowing the natural color of the deck to shine through. Remember that it shouldn’t clash with the overall look of the home. Instead it should be a warm and natural addition and not an eyesore. You may even want to test a small part of the deck with different samples of colors and stains you are considering prior to completing the project in full.

Finally, remember you can always call on the expertise of the experienced professionals at University Painters, Inc. We specialize in creating beautiful and lasting appearances that homeowners will love for years to come.

home painters, painting, interior,exterior
Written by Colleen Kalil

Get Your Deck Warm Weather Ready

home painters, painting, interior,exteriorFollow these steps to make sure your deck stays in good condition.

Clean between the boards to loosen and lift out any dirt, mud or other debris using a putty knife. Don’t use anything that would damage the wood. Sweep the deck thoroughly. Ensure that you’re using the correct cleaner for your deck. Some require that the deck be wet before the cleaner is applied.

Apply the cleaner with a brush-style broom, garden hose sprayer, or a paint roller. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Don’t forget to clean the railings, beginning from the bottom up, and the stairs then rinse thoroughly. If you’re planning to reseal the deck, wait at least two full days.

Check the deck for any large gouges, loose boards, or other signs of wear. If nails have popped up, take them out and replace it with a slightly longer wood screw. If there are any boards with rot or significant signs of wear, replace it. Check railings as well to make sure they’re secure.

Remember to periodically move furniture or planters to clean underneath and prevent rot. Plants should never drain directly onto the deck. Keep a tray underneath each item to catch excess water. Protect the deck from furniture scratches with nylon pads similar to what you would use in the house. Don’t use any natural fibers that can mildew or rot.

If you have a grill on your deck, take a few precautions. Make sure there’s sufficient space around the grill so air can circulate and the heat won’t damage the deck. Protect the wood under the grill with a spatter mat, specifically manufactured for that purpose. Again, clean under the mat regularly to keep dirt and grease from building up. Clean up any spills as soon as they occur.

University Painters are experts in the treatment and maintenance of exterior surfaces. Contact us today for a free appointment at 800-390-4848 or visit our website at universitypainters.com.