Splintering Deck
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.
To find a professional to refinish your deck, visit Home Advisor, type "Clean and Seal Deck" into the search box and submit a service request so you can be matched with the ideal service professionals in your area.
by Kathy Maynard, reprinted courtesy of HomeAdvisor.com