Deck Staining and Refinishing
First step on any deck project is for us to come take measurements and look at the deck first hand. First and foremost, we check out the deck thoroughly to make sure there is no wood rot and that the deck is not to far gone for refinishing. If we find that a percentage of the lumber needs to be replaced, we will be up front and not try to sell you on a service that will not help “save” the project. It is common, especially on decks that have gone a substantial amount of time left untreated to have some boards here and there that need replacing. We can discuss what we are finding and replace boards that need to be replaced upon request. This will be written with your estimate.
If the deck is structurally sound, we then determine the correct cleaning solutions to properly clean your deck and bring it back to new again. Using water alone will not thoroughly clean the surface contaminants or remove the failing finish. We let the cleaners do most the work so we can use as little pressure as needed, allowing us not to damage your wood. If there is a previous coating on the deck, we will test an area in a inconspicuous area to make sure we can remove the failing finish. This lets us know how easily or difficult the finish will be to remove. It also allows us to predict the outcome before even getting started on the project and quote it precisely and accordingly. We will not make a promise we can not keep. Once we know these aspects of the deck restoration, we will write up a detailed estimate of the services to be provided.
After restoring the deck, we then apply a neutralizer that prepares the wood, allowing it to return to the proper ph. This in turn allows the stain/sealer to properly penetrate the wood without the chance of premature failure. The neutralizer also acts as a brightener give your deck that “brand new” look. Once applied the deck, home, and surrounding area is thoroughly rinsed.
Dependent on drying conditions, the deck must then dry for several days before any staining can be done. Once dry the deck is then sanded to remove the raised wood fibers or fuzziness to the lumber. Most companies skip this step and say the “fuzzies” will come off over time or charge extra for this service.. In our experience, we find this not to be true.
After sanding the deck is then blown off and the surrounding area is prepped for staining/sealing. Concrete, landscape, vegetation, etc. is covered where needed. We then apply an oil based sealer/stain that penetrates into the wood. This product protects against water absorption, mold, mildew, and photo degradation. It won’t peel, flake, or chip and preserves the natural beauty of your investment. In most instances the deck can be used 24-48 hours after application.
Decking Maintenance
One-80 woodcare is not here to just refinish your deck, get paid and never look back. Here in the midwest, deck finishes on average last 2-3 years before needing a maintenance coat. Most finishes on the market will need to be stripped before re-application to get a nice clean look. With the product we use, that is not the case. Upon being contacted we will come look at the deck to determine if it is in need. We are happy to come take a look at any point in time to give our honest, expert opinion If we determine the deck could use another coat, we write up a proposal for what we call a Re-Treat. At that point in time all we need to do is come in apply a light coat of neutralizer, do a light cleaning, and re-apply the stain/sealer once dry. No need to strip, restore, or sand. This process will leave a nice even looking coat without the hassle or expense of stripping. On average the cost of a Re-treat is 30%-40% off of the first initial restoration price.
We do not and cannot strip solid stains or paints from decks. However we do have processes to clean, sand, and apply superior solid finishes to your deck.
Our process is also true to any outdoor wood investment including fences, playsets, gazebos, and outdoor wood furniture.
Our exterior wood services include:
-Power washing
-Refinishing
-Restoring
-Stripping
-Neutralizing
-Staining
-Sealing
-Painting/Solid staining