Fast Facts About Deck Maintenance
Our team answers homeowner questions every weekend on WCCO 830 AM from 9:00 am-10:00 am. Have your most pressing home improvement questions answered by calling 651-989-9226 or texting 81807. Here’s must-know information from our in-house deck specialist, Luke Panek, shared on 4.6.19.
Cellular PVC decking is comprised of recycled plastic. There are several advantages to utilizing this material over wood. First, cellular PVC is resistant to unsightly algae and mold growth. It also does not require staining to keep it looking new. Durability is another area where cellular PVC decks outshine wooden ones. Pressure washing can damage a wooden deck, particularly those made of cedar. Cedar is a soft wood and the intensity of pressure washing can make the wood take on a furry consistency. PVC decks, manufactured by companies like Zuri®, can be pressure washed without concern of damage and have a significantly longer lifespan.
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Homeowners opting to build a wooden deck should be fully aware of the maintenance they require, particularly routine staining. It’s important to pick a high quality, long-lasting, stain that will prevent moisture from compromising the deck’s integrity. Penofin manufactures several stains that are designed to keep wooden decks looking their best for as long as possible. The product does an exemplary job of penetrating the wood, rather than sitting on top of it. It also provides UV protection and slows down the natural shrinking and cracking that lumber is notorious for. Unlike budget deck stains, when properly applied, there is no worry of Penofin flaking off. What makes this product unique is that it has a rosewood oil base. Rosewood oil has much smaller molecules than linseed oil deck stains. This allows Penofin to penetrate quickly, but the wood can only accept a certain amount of Penofin before it pools up. Special care should be taken to not apply Penofin in too thick of layers, as the result will be a sticky mess. Penofin should be applied, allowed to sit for a minute or two, and then the residue should be wiped off with a rag.
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