The Importance of Wood Deck Waterproofing

Wood is generally made up of small, microscopical cells. Constant exposure to water and sunlight will cause a wood deck to lose its natural beauty and strength, with the wet and dry cycles further causing it to expand and contract, eventually resulting in warping, swelling and checking. This can be prevented by proper care and maintenance, particularly by waterproofing the wood deck.

Waterproofing

Waterproofing basically involves applying a coating of water repellent sealer on the deck surface to prevent water from penetrating the surface. A brush, roller or spray can be used to apply the water repellant.

Usefulness

Waterproofing protects the wood and prolongs its life by preventing the damage that can be caused by water, including wood rot, stain and decay. When a water repellent coating with a preservative is used, it can prevent the growth of fungi, mildew, mold and other organisms that promote decay. The color of certain wood species like redwood can also be retained through the years if applied with a combination of water repellant and a mildewcide. The California Redwood Association mentions that complete protection from water and moisture is ensured if the sealer is applied to all wood pieces before being used in construction.

Waterproofing Guidelines

The following are some general guidelines for waterproofing a wood deck:

1. The deck must be thoroughly cleaned of all debris and residue. 2. Use a drop cloth to cover the area to be waterproofed. 3. Apply the sealer by using a sprayer or roller. 4. Even out the coatings with a brush to remove grains or puddles. 5. Allow the sealer to set for about 15 to 30 minutes. 6. Clean the equipment used for waterproofing. 7. Follow the instructions on the packages for properly disposing the containers. 8. Before using the deck, allow it to dry for two days.

Waterproofing and Deck Care Tips

Because the water repellent sealer has to penetrate deeply into the wood to perform effectively, it is not advisable to use a sealer on a previously stained or painted deck surface, as the sealer will not be able to penetrate the existing coating. Water puddles should not be allowed to remain on the deck surface for more than two days, as they will cause the growth of mildew that will harm the wood.