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T2I is a certified Deck Care Specialist. We specialize in the care of natural wood decks. We have cared for decks for eighteen (18) years.
Cleaning & Sealing
The number one thing to know is that T2I uses a biodegradable cleaner that will not destroy plant life around your deck. A good cleaner is the most important part of washing the deck as it breaks down the old sealer and dirt so it can be rinsed off. Most people believe that the pressure washing removes all the old sealer and the dirt, but this is not the case. The cleaner and rinsing must be completed first. If you decide to use only water pressure, you could really damage the wood. In using a cleaner, I will not use bleach or products with bleach agents. Bleach breaks down the lignin in you wood. (Lignin is the substance that holds your wood fibers together)
Now let's talk sealing
We are always asked the question - can you stain and seal my deck? The answer is yes and it can be done with one product.
Why do you need to protect your deck? To guard it from damage caused by sun, rain, snow or heavy dew.
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To keep this from happening we use a product that penetrates the wood and protects it from the rain. The protector acts as a sealer or a waterproofer. To protect the sealer form the sun, company’s put color in them such as cedar or a stain like product. Basically it is a UV protector from the sun, like sunglasses.
We like using this type of product because it will wear evenly. There is a wide range of products on the market – but a top line product lasts the longest.
The deck care process needs to be done every 2 to 3 years, depending on how much sun, rain, or snow it receives.
Semi Transparent & Solid Stains
Semi transparent stains come in virtually any color. You will still be able to faintly see the natural color of the wood. This product comes with water repellant, but in most cases once you stain the deck it is very difficult to remove all of the original stain. This product also wears like carpet, where you can visibly see the high traffic areas.
Solid stains are like paint it is a surface product. I have found that painting or solid stains on decks are problematic on a horizontal surface. It will eventually peel from exposure to the elements.
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