It’s hard to believe it’s already been a year since we started our deck restoration project! Time flies when you’re having fun, and we’ve certainly had our share of both over the past twelve months. In this blog post, we’ll share nine lessons learned from the process — as well as tips to help you restore your own old deck.
1. Don’t underestimate the amount of work required.
We knew that restoring our deck was going to be a big job, but we didn’t quite realize just how big it would be. From stripping and sanding down the wooden boards to staining and sealing them, the project took many weekends (and some weeknights) to complete. If you’re considering tackling a similar project, make sure you set aside enough time — and help! — to get the job done right.
2. Be prepared for some trial and error.
There’s no such thing as a perfect deck refurbishment project — there will always be a few bumps in the road. For us, one of the biggest challenges was finding the right stain color to match the existing deck boards. We must have tested out at least a dozen different samples before finally settling on the perfect shade. The lesson here is to expect some trial and error and to be patient in your search for the right products.
3. It’s important to choose the right tools.
A good quality stripper, sander, and sealer are essential for any deck restoration project. We made the mistake of using cheap tools early on in the process, which made the job take longer and was frustrating. Once we invested in higher-quality supplies, the project went much more smoothly.
4. Don’t forget about safety.
Working with power tools and chemicals can be dangerous, so it’s important to take safety precautions when restoring a wooden deck. Always wear eye protection and gloves, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when using any products.
5. Take your time stripping and sanding.
Stripping and sanding are two of the most important — and time-consuming — steps in the deck restoration process. It’s important to take your time with these tasks in order to avoid damaging the wood or creating uneven surfaces. We found that working in small sections and taking frequent breaks helped us get through this part of the project without any major mishaps tools, the project went much more smoothly.
6. Be patient when staining and sealing.
Staining and sealing the deck boards is the final step in the process, and it’s important to take your time to do it right. Make sure you choose a stain color that you’re happy with and apply the sealer evenly to avoid any streaks or blotches. Once the stain and sealer are dry, you’ll be able to enjoy your newly restored wooden deck for years to come!
7. Don’t forget about maintenance.
Even though the restoration process is now complete, it’s important to remember that decks still require regular maintenance. sweep the deck monthly to remove any dirt or debris, and reapply stain and sealer as needed (typically every one to three years). By following these simple steps, you can keep your wooden deck looking like new for many years to come.
8. It’s worth the effort.
Despite all the work that goes into restoring a wooden deck, it’s definitely worth the effort. There’s nothing like enjoying a cup of coffee or a glass of wine on your newly refurbished deck, surrounded by the beauty of nature. If you’re thinking about taking on a similar project, we say go for it!
9. Have fun!
Last but not least, don’t forget to have fun during the restoration process! Yes, it’s a lot of work, but it’s also an opportunity to create something beautiful that you and your family can enjoy for years to come. So take your time, make some mistakes, and most importantly, enjoy the journey.
