Wood Protecting
Handyman vs. The ElementsEveryone knows winter can wreak havoc on exteriors, and some of the worst problems don't show themselves till spring. Here are some post-thaw cures and some preventive maintenance suggestions that'll keep your exterior wood surfaces looking their best year after year.
Establish a zero tolerance policy for moisture.
- Follow these tips to keep moisture out.
- Check your flashing and caulking around doors and windows.
- Monitor interior humidity and keep it at 40%.
- Don't let snow pile up on your roof over the winter. Shovel it off and consider installing heat wires in the eaves.
- Keep you attic insulated to keep heat in living areas, but keep the attic itself, cool and well ventilated.
- Remove ice as it accumulates on your deck.
- Place furniture covers so they can't trap damaging moisture.
The Problem: Peeling Solid Color Stain
When moisture gets into your wood, it can compromise your stain job, causing blistering and peeling-particularly on the south and west walls where the sun accelerates the damage. Trapped moisture and poor air circulation can also cause serious peeling problems, not to mention mildew and algae growths.The Problem: Brown Discoloration
Post-winter discoloration is usually caused by tannin bleeding, also known as extractive bleeding. Tannin bleed is not a stain failure but may accompany peeling problems as both conditions are caused by moisture in the wood.Repairs
Perform a tape test. See just how bad the situation is by pressing transparent tape against the wood. If stain comes off, you've got an adhesion problem.Prep the surface and reapply. Time to break out the power washer and sanding tools. Clean your deck with Cabot Problem-Solver® Cleaner (also see Horizontal Hassles). Use Cabot Problem-Solver® Brightener to remove tannin bleed, if present. Then, when the deck is all dry, apply a penetrating stain. For more information regarding your specific project, call 1-800-US-STAIN.
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