Len's Composition Co.

The beauty of waterproofing your deck with a professional is that you won’t have to reapply it every season before you start using your deck again. Let’s talk about the optimal reapplication schedule for the wood features on your property.

Does it ever seem as though the chores around your home never seem to end? While we can’t help you with that unending pile of laundry waiting for you to tackle, we can ensure your deck is properly waterproofed and ready for use when you are.

In addition to preventing wood from rotting, waterproofing also protects against the growth and spread of algae and fungus across the material. While it is not a health threat (unless you have mold allergies), it is definitely unsightly.

Some states regulate the use of oil-based waterproofing formulas, restricting their use to professional installers and limiting their application in residential settings. Why? Some oil-based formulas contain VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that are released into the air and environment.

If you’re like many homeowners, you may be anxious to take on more projects around the home as a way to save money on home maintenance. Remember, waterproofing your own deck won’t always give you the professional results you crave.

While you may be building your deck out of treated wood, it’s often a good idea to confirm exactly what the treatment does. In many cases, the treatment may only protect against wood-destroying pests, not water damage.

Unfortunately, trying to waterproof your own balcony isn’t always safe for the average homeowner. When you’d rather not balance on the top of a rickety ladder to apply waterproofing to the underside of your balcony, we’re always ready to step in.

Some waterproofing formulas contain elastomers, strong polymers that dry hard but remain elastic or flexible. Elastomeric coatings are used to waterproof roof decks and similar surfaces, while elastomeric sealants are useful for filling gaps and creating watertight seams.

How frequently should your deck be waterproofed? That depends on climate conditions and the waterproofing materials used. Obviously, rainy climes require more frequent waterproofing than arid ones do, but neglecting a deck in dry conditions can cause problems when it does rain.

Waterproofing your deck can protect against more than water and the damage it can cause. If requested, we can use waterproofing compounds that will provide UV protection and help fight insect infestation.

It’s important to remember that the regular reapplication of your deck’s waterproofing is critical for keeping it resilient against outdoor exposure. Generally, most decks can go about two years before it’s time to reapply the waterproofing.

How do you know if your deck needs to be waterproofed? Here is an easy test. The next time you are watering, spray some on the deck. If the water beads up, it is probably in good shape. If the water sits in sheets or clearly soaks into the wood, it is time for waterproofing.

When moisture comes into contact with wood, it can cause cracks to occur, which can lead to further water exposure and damage. Waterproofing your deck will help prevent cracking, warping, and splitting of wood decking.