Splintering Deck

Tips from Real-Estate-Agents.com

by Kathy Maynard, reprinted courtesy of ServiceMagic.com

Q: My deck is about 4 years old. I used a stain on it after it was 6 months old but I haven't done anything to it since. I now have a lot of boards with cracks and splinters. Do you have any advice on how I should fix the problem?

A: Unfortunately, you may have learned a lesson the hard way. There isn't a whole lot you can do to the deck now. The sun and weather have taken their toll because you left it unprotected.

You can get a deck wash chemical and wash the deck with a wire brush. This will get rid of most of the splinters and any built up dirt and oxidation. Then you can get a good quality stain and apply two liberal coats and keep your fingers crossed. It may help but there is no way to make up for lost time.

This information is brought to you by Don Powell of Powell Building Corporation in Mt. Laurel, NJ.

To find a professional to refinish your deck, please visit ServiceMagic.com, type "Clean and Seal Deck" into the search box and submit a service request so we can match you with the ideal service professionals in your area.

Good luck!

Kathy Maynard

-- Tips courtesy of Service Magic