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Many people think of waterproofing when it comes to their basement, but you shouldn't forget about outdoor features like your deck. If your deck is made of wood, waterproofing is important to protect the material and keep the deck from serious damage.

Clean and Repair the Deck

Before you can seal or waterproof your wood deck, you need to look for signs of damage. Otherwise, all the work you put in sealing the wood could be a waste of time. Start by cleaning the entire deck with a garden hose and soapy water. Scrub the wood deck to remove oil, grease, debris, and buildup. Once that is done, make sure it is rinsed thoroughly, then let it dry completely. After it is cleaned, it is easier to look for signs of damage. Look for any cracks, splits, or holes in the wood, and fill them in with wood filler. Let the wood filler dry, then sand the top surface to have a smooth edge for the sealing process. Replace any wood boards that are severely damaged or that contain mould.

Use a Water Sealer

One of the top ways to waterproof your wood deck is by sealing the wood with a water sealer. As with all sealant products, choose the day you apply it correctly. You want a day when it isn't too hot or too cold so the sealant doesn't get wet but also doesn't dry too quickly in extreme heat. Try to seal the wood deck on a cloudy or overcast day that isn't expecting any rain or wind. You will first stir the sealant, then apply it to the entire surface of the wood deck with a paint roller. Wait for it to dry completely before using the deck.

Choose Weather-Resistant Wood

If you are in the process of having a new wood deck built, then you have the option of waterproofing it simply by choosing the right material. Instead of regular wood, consider a pressure-treated wood that is weather-resistant. This type of wood is treated with chemicals that help prevent rot, cracking, mould, and mildew as a result of water and high moisture. Whether you get a lot of rain or live somewhere humid, this is a way to have automatic waterproofing of your deck.

With these simple steps, your wood deck will be able to handle water and moisture without going straight to severe damage. It helps it last longer and prevents major repairs.