DIY: How To Refinish a Wood Deck: A Step-by-Step Guide

There's nothing quite like enjoying a sunny day on your deck, but over time, even the sturdiest wood deck can start to look a little worn and weathered. If your once-beautiful deck is showing signs of age, don’t worry! With a little elbow grease and some basic tools, you can transform your deck into a stunning outdoor space that you’ll love spending time on.

Refinishing your deck might sound like a big job, but it’s actually a fun and rewarding DIY project that you can tackle over a weekend. Plus, there's something deeply satisfying about stepping back and admiring a job well done, knowing you did it all yourself. So grab your work gloves and let's dive into this step-by-step guide on how to refinish your wood deck!

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Step 1: Assess the Condition of Your Deck

Before you start, take a close look at your deck. Check for:

- Loose or damaged boards: Replace any boards that are cracked, splintered, or rotting. Check for any soft spots in the wood that might indicate rotting underneath.

- Protruding nails or screws: Hammer down nails and tighten screws that have worked their way up.

- Mold or mildew: Clean any mold or mildew spots to prevent them from spreading.

Step 2: Gather Your Materials

You'll need the following tools and supplies:

- Deck cleaner

- Power washer or garden hose with a high-pressure nozzle

- Stiff-bristled brush

- Sandpaper or power sander

- Wood stain or sealant

- Paintbrush, roller, or stain pad

- Drop cloths or tarps

- Protective gear (gloves, safety glasses, mask)

Check out this awesome pressure washer we found on Amazon.

Step 3: Clean the Deck

Ensuring your deck is clean is essential to achieve a seamless finish. Here is the process:

1. Remove debris: Sweep away leaves, dirt, and debris.

2. Apply deck cleaner: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing and applying the cleaner.

3. Scrub the surface: Use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the deck thoroughly, paying extra attention to heavily soiled areas.

4. Rinse: Use a power washer or garden hose to rinse the deck, making sure to remove all cleaner residue. Let the deck dry completely before proceeding.

Step 4: Sand the Deck

Sanding the wood creates a smooth surface and enhances the grain to improve the absorption of paint or stain.

1. Choose the right sandpaper: Use 80-grit sandpaper for rough areas and 120-grit for smoother surfaces.

2. Sand the deck: Use a power sander for large areas and sandpaper sheets for corners and edges. Sand along the grain of the wood to avoid scratches.

3. Clean up: Sweep or vacuum up the sanding dust.

You don't need anything too fancy, we use this cordless Ryobi Orbital Sander.

Step 5: Apply the Stain or Sealant

Now it’s time to protect and beautify your deck with stain or sealant.

1. Choose your product: Select a wood stain or sealant that suits your desired finish and level of protection.

2. Stir the product: Mix the stain or sealant thoroughly before application.

3. Test a small area: Apply a small amount in an inconspicuous spot to check the color and absorption.

4. Apply evenly: Use a paintbrush, roller, or stain pad to apply the product evenly. Work in small sections to ensure even coverage and avoid lap marks.

5. Follow the grain: Apply the stain or sealant along the grain of the wood.

6. Wipe off excess: After 15-20 minutes, wipe off any excess stain with a clean cloth.

7. Let it dry: Allow the first coat to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Apply a second coat if necessary for deeper color and protection.

Step 6: Final Touches

Once the stain or sealant is dry, your deck is almost ready for use.

1. Inspect your work: Check for any missed spots or uneven areas and touch them up.

2. Reattach fixtures: Replace any deck furniture, planters, or accessories that you removed before starting.

3. Enjoy your refreshed deck: Your hard work has paid off—enjoy your beautiful, like-new deck!

Tips for Success

- Check the weather: Choose a dry, mild day for this project to ensure the best results.

- Take safety precautions: Wear protective gear like gloves, safety glasses, and a mask, especially when sanding and using chemicals.

- Maintenance: Regularly clean and inspect your deck to extend the life of the finish.

Refinishing a wood deck might seem daunting, but with the right approach, it's a manageable DIY project that can significantly enhance your outdoor space. Follow these steps, and you'll be able to enjoy your beautifully refinished deck for years to come.