Your deck is an extension of your home and living space, and like your home, it requires regular cleaning and upkeep to remain safe and comfortable. Composite and natural wood decks may have different requirements, but there are some basics for all decks. Here are some do’s and don’ts of deck care to keep in mind.

Deck Do’s

• Do give your deck a thorough annual cleaning. Your deck needs annual exfoliation to allow protective sealers to seep deeper into the wood of your deck. Choose a dry, moderately warm day to apply a material-appropriate deck-cleaning solution with a sprayer or roller. This will kill mold and bacteria that can speed the decay of your deck. A scrub brush can help the cleaner get into hard to reach spots and crevices to ensure that your whole deck is cleaned.
• Do cover surrounding plants before cleaning your deck. Cleaners and other chemicals can be hard on plants, so it is important to loosely cover them with plastic sheeting or tarps to prevent them from being sprayed. Avoid covering them too tightly, which might restrict air movement.
• Do sand your deck before applying sealer. After washing your deck, allow 48 hours for it to fully dry. Your next step will be to lightly sand your deck to remove splinters or damage due to pressure washing. A power sander may be too harsh, but 80-grit sandpaper should be enough. After your deck has been sanded, apply a sealer to prevent the wood from cracking, cupping, or warping. Tinted sealers and stains can wear down over time with traffic, but clear sealant will last longer.
• Do clean your deck regularly. In addition to your annual cleaning, you should keep your deck swept free of puddled water, leaves, branches, dirt, and other debris. In snowy areas, a plastic shovel can remove snow without damaging your deck.
• Do watch for damage. If your deck becomes damaged, it can become a significant safety hazard and lead to further damage. Inspect your deck regularly for soft or splintered spots, loose nails, boards, or railings, and split or rotten planks. Promptly repair damaged areas when discovered.

Deck Don’ts

• Don’t rely on a power-washer. While this can be an effective and quick way to clean our deck, it can also cause damage. If you do use a pressure washer, keep the stream moving whenever the trigger is moving. A garden hose with a hard stream setting should provide enough pressure to clean your deck without damaging it.
• Don’t use chlorine bleach on your deck. This can damage the cellular structure of your wooden deck and strip it of color. It also can harm the plants growing around your deck. Oxygen bleach is a safer alternative, but it still isn’t appropriate for redwood decks.
• Don’t use paint to seal your deck. New paint can look polished and clean, but it will distress very rapidly. If your deck was painted and you are looking to use a different sealant, you will need to sand off all the paint before you can refinish your deck. Synthetic sealants can prevent mold and mildew while protecting from sun damage and water damage.
• Don’t assume pressure-treated wood decks are maintenance-free decks. While pressure-treated wood can resist rot and insect damage, it still required sealant and cleaning. Be sure to use products intended for pressure-treated wood when protecting your deck from sun and water damage.
• Don’t use natural material rugs on your deck. It is important to prevent your deck furniture from scratching the surface of your deck, but natural fiber rugs such as jute and bamboo can absorb moisture and encourage mildew. Look for rugs made from recycled plastics for an eco- and deck-friendly solution.

Keep Your Deck In Shape with Los Angeles Deck Waterproofing Services – (310) 912-7737

With more than 30 years of experience, Capital Deck & Stair Waterproofing can help you preserve the beauty and safety of your deck with a wide variety of waterproofing solutions. Let us help you refresh your deck, balcony, or outdoor stairs with our warrantied waterproofing services. Our Los Angeles deck waterproofing crews are available when you are, with weekend and after-hours scheduling available.

Request a quote today, and learn more about getting the most from your deck. Contact us by calling (310) 912-7737 .

Do you seem to notice that certain spots on your deck always seem to stay wet the longest after it rains or you wash your deck? This is because that particular spot is a low point in your deck’s surface, which is rarely even. This is called “ponding,” and it affects nearly every waterproofed deck around. Most of the time, ponding is more a nuisance than anything serious, but serious cases are an indicator of potentially bigger problems with your deck.

There’s a very easy way to tell whether or not you should be worried about the spots where you find ponding. When your deck gets wet, does the water stay for longer than 24 hours? If not, then you have nothing to worry about. If it does, then you may want to consider having the spot repaired.

Causes of Ponding

As stated previously, ponding is an extremely common problem, mostly because it has a wide variety of causes. Most decks contain some form of ponding due to one of these reasons:

• Edge Metal: Edge metal is typically installed over sheet membrane or paper, creating an added thickness in the underlayment membrane. This usually means there’s just enough buildup to create ponding.
• Not Enough Slope: Industry standard for deck sloping is 2%, or ¼” per foot of deck. Yes, this means a properly installed waterproof deck is never going to be perfectly flat. This is to force water to move towards a low point, where a drain is usually installed. However, not having enough slope won’t cause the water to migrate, and ponds will form.
• Warped Framing: When constructing a deck out of wood, it’s perfectly normal for the material to expand and contract as it’s exposed to multiple climate changes. However, expanding material that’s nailed into place can warp, creating low points and ponds. Additionally, plywood brought in isn’t necessarily perfectly true to begin with, and these minor imperfections can expand, creating ponds.

Finding Ponding Early

What can you do to prevent ponding before it starts? The first and best thing you should do is to put water on your deck after it has been waterproofed to find any low points. You could try to find low points using a level as well, but trying to find a small low point in a deck that might be 500 square feet or more is an overwhelming task. You also shouldn’t try getting the wood wet either; wood absorbs water which can lead to fungal growth and rot.

Once the deck has been wet, you should be able to quickly spot and circle any low points. Once the deck dries, you can fill these low points with an applicator to level the surface before applying the top coats to completely finish the project.

If your deck has serious ponding issues, leading to cracks, deformation, and structural weakness, call Capital Deck & Stair Waterproofing . Our Los Angeles deck waterproofing experts have provided high-quality construction, repair, and resurfacing services for more than 30 years. We back all our work with warranties and a guarantee of quality to give you the confidence that you’ll be satisfied with your deck or we’ll do everything we can to fix it. We are even available on weekends to help you get the service you need on your schedule!

Schedule your service or get a quote today! Call Capital Deck & Stair Waterproofing at (310) 912-7737 .

No matter what type of deck you have, wood or concrete, it is important to have it waterproofed as soon as you have it installed. By doing this, you will avoid future headaches and costly repairs. Even though it may not rain as much in Los Angeles, the fact of the matter is that there are still external elements that are going to affect your decking. Taking the extra step to waterproof your outdoor space can save you time and money in the long run.

Waterproofing: It’s Not Just for Wooden Decks

Many people mistakenly believe that their concrete deck is immune to the weather. Just because it is not made of wood does not mean that it cannot still get damaged. While concrete may be more sustainable and less susceptible to water damage, it is still very much at risk.

How Does the Damage Occur?

If you have any cracks in your concrete deck, the water can seep down into the cracks and result in damage. When temperatures dip down low during the fall and winter, the moisture trapped down in the cracks can begin to freeze, causing the cracks to expand. The more cracks that begin to develop and the more water that gets settled into your deck, the greater the amount of structural damage that can occur.

Think of it this way. If the water has nowhere else to go, it will continue to settle below the deck and start softening the ground that the deck is built on. Eventually, when people walk on the deck, the pressure that is created on the softer spots of soil can cause the deck to crack. Once these cracks have built up, the cost to fix all of them can become high. In some cases, you may need a new deck entirely.

Take preventative measures now and waterproof your deck. At Capital Deck & Stair Waterproofing, we offer free estimates so that we can accurately give you an idea of the work that is needed and help to create a plan that is right for you.

Call (310) 912-7737 today to speak with our Los Angeles deck waterproofing specialists . We have 30+ years of experience in the business.

With spring right around the corner, you may be looking to add a little life to your patio, deck, or other outdoor area. This may come in the form of adding in new plants, requiring the addition of planters. It is important to remember that planters should be waterproofed.

Whether you are looking to install a new planter or you already have outdoor planters, waterproofing them is essential to making sure they last.

Why Is Waterproofing Key to Durability?

First of all, your planters, just like any other outdoor item, needs protection against the elements. Having a planter outside means that it has to brave the wind, rain, sprinklers, and everyday plant watering. Waterproofing your planter can provide you with a multitude of benefits.

If you waterproof your planters, it can prevent the following from happening:

• Planters holding in excess water
• Water leaking and causing harm to the plants
• Lack of draining lines that leads to plant damage
• Overall wear and tear running the look of the planter

Also if you already have a planter that is cracking from water damage, we can glue the planter back together with epoxy and help to prevent any future leaking. When you speak with a professional at Capital Deck & Stair Waterproofing, we can discuss the options available for your existing planter and determine if we can fix the issues you are experiencing.

Working With Waterproofing Specialists

With over 30 years of experience, our licensed and highly-trained waterproof specialists have handled a wide array of waterproofing jobs throughout Southern California. Whether you need help with your planter, deck, stairs, or any other outdoor surface, give our Los Angeles waterproof specialist a call. Get your outdoor space ready for Spring and Summer before the seasons are already upon us.

We offer free estimates – call (310) 912-7737 today!

Any deck – whether it be a leisure deck , walking deck , or pool deck – will eventually start to look a little worse for wear. Or, at the very least, it just won’t feel as inviting anymore. If this has happened to your deck, wouldn’t it be nice to refresh it and restore its welcoming nature? Luckily, this is possible, and it probably isn’t as difficult as you think.

These easy-to-follow steps can help you freshen up your deck:

1. Scan: Before you can really improve your deck’s condition, you need to know everything that is wrong with it. Make an inspection of anything that catches your eye and note where you find issues. You should be looking for loose bolts, cracked wood, chipped concrete, and any other condition that could be indicative of a bigger underlying problem.
2. Sweep: A good push-broom is your best friend when it comes to getting the biggest bits of debris and dirt out of the cracks and gaps in your deck. Put all the furniture on the lawn and start by sweeping your deck thoroughly.
3. Scrub: Trouble spots and grease stains won’t be swept away by a push-broom but they aren’t tougher than you. If you have a deck-rated power scrubber, this step is incredibly simple. Otherwise, you will need to get a brush, some cleaner, and a bottle of elbow grease to deal with those nasty particulars.
4. Scrape: The floorboards of your deck undoubtedly take the worst beating on a daily basis but don’t forget about any handrails, bannisters, and other components that might make up your deck. A scrubbing brush and some extra attention will work wonders here.
5. Splash: When the noticeable, individual stains are gone, you can make a complete pass over the deck with an extra splash of deck-approved soap and your push-broom again.

How does your deck look now that you’ve cleared it off and given it some welcome attention? If it doesn’t look warm and wonderful as it once did, it could very well be time to refinish or reseal it again. Capital Deck & Stair Waterproofing of Los Angeles can provide you with professional help when it comes to tackling any deck or stair job, no matter the size or scale. Contact our team to get a free quote about the project you have in mind.

When you need a place to relax and unwind, nothing can beat a great leisure deck . When built to your liking, a leisure deck can feel like your private Fortress of Solitude, or it can become the centerpiece of your home whenever you have guests to entertain. But if your leisure deck is missing a few key elements, you might find yourself wanting for more.

To get the most enjoyment out of your leisure deck, include or improve these five things:

1. View: A leisure deck is meant for gazing into the distance, thinking about all the things that make you smile and feel calm. If the view from your leisure deck is lacking, find fun ways to spruce it up. This could mean adding a little garden or a fountain if your deck faces a large yard, or maybe hanging interesting decorations if your leisure deck is in a tight space, such as an apartment complex balcony or rooftop.
2. Furniture: You are going to want to sit and relax on your leisure deck, right? The furniture you have there is just as important as anything else. Find pieces that both complement the overall scene and don’t leave you sore after hours of lounging.
3. Lighting: One of the hardest elements an artist can master is the lighting in their paintings or photography. In this way, building or enhancing a leisure deck is like working on a piece of art. Too little lighting, and you won’t be able to see where you are going for nighttime hangouts; too much lighting, and you can interrupt the relative peace your leisure deck was supposed to bring. Consider multiple options when adding lighting, including where light sources actually go, until you find the right balance.
4. Friends: Does your leisure deck look and feel great but also a bit lonely? Sounds like it is time to get some friends together to liven up the place! You’d be surprised how quickly you can fall in love with your leisure deck once you see a group of friends and family together on it, laughing and enjoying the day or evening. Don’t forget: Los Angeles weather means just about every day is a good day for a barbeque!
5. Deck: Of course, you have to appreciate and care for your deck from the ground up. In order to make a noticeable and welcome improvement to your leisure deck, you should think about staining or weatherproofing it. A new splash of color can instantly create a soothing atmosphere, and sealants ensure it will remain that way for quite some time, even after the sun or rain beats down on it.

At Capital Deck & Stair Waterproofing, our Los Angeles deck waterproof specialists are known for providing top-quality craftsmanship at fair prices and always with a friendly attitude. If you want to improve your leisure your deck with ease, come to us to learn about our services . You can contact us online at any time and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Many homes, businesses, and properties in Los Angeles have decks that see a lot of foot traffic but do not get a lot of attention. It is not that most people do not care about the conditions of their decks – many people would claim that a good deck can bring the entire house together. Instead, most people are just not aware of what can be done to improve, repair, and care for a deck.

Our Los Angeles deck waterproofing specialists at Capital Deck & Stair Waterproofing are truly passionate about making decks and stairs look their best, no matter the weather or wear. We have compiled a useful frequently asked questions section below to hopefully address your most pressing concerns about deck waterproofing, sealing, and staining. Be sure to give it a brief review, or feel free to contact us directly to learn about our services, which are available during the workweek, afterhours, and even on the weekends.

Deck Waterproofing & Sealing FAQ

1. How often should I service or repair my deck?
   You can expect a great weatherproofing job to last at least two years under normal conditions. If there is plenty of shade throughout the day on the deck and you don’t get much rain – in Los Angeles, rain is pretty scarce – it could last up to five years. On the opposite end, heavily trafficked decks in direct sunlight may need waterproofing once a year.
2. Should I waterproof a brand new deck?
   Possibly. Some new woods need a couple months after installation before they are ready for waterproofing, due to the material’s pores, climate conditions, and other factors. Others may need immediate sealing to stop normal wear and tear from turning into noticeable dents and dings. Contact a professional waterproofing specialist, tell them what sort of wood you have in your new deck, and they can get you a proper treatment schedule.
3. Should I use a darker stain or finish?
   Only use dark stains if you are confident a dark, forest-y look will be right for your deck. Once you stain, seal, or finish wood darkly, it can be difficult to go back to lighter or transparent stains in the future. After all, you are staining it.
4. My railings don’t seem to need to be refinished – why is that?
   Sunlight beats down on the horizontal surfaces of decks, where heat can build up and get trapped. The same can be said for harsh weather elements, like rain or ice on cold mornings. Vertical railings don’t take the brunt of the elements and therefore generally look better and last longer than the decks they accompany.
5. Does occasionally rinsing down my deck actually help?
   Absolutely, especially for wooden decks with cracks between the planks. A quick wash down once a week or so can push away bits of dirt, dust, and whatever else is out there before it accumulates into a problem. If your deck has been recently stained, sealed, or weatherproofed, ask a specialist how soon you can wash it down again.

If you are looking to complete some big projects around your home or property, make certain you do not overlook the decks and stairs. Literally right under their feet, most people forget that these areas can be improved or may be in need of repair.

Waterproofing your deck or stairs is one of the top ways to complete enhancements without getting caught up in a massive and frustrating construction job. But if you are like most homeowners and property managers, you probably don’t know the benefits of waterproofing, and, thus, have not given it consideration. Take a look at this rundown of the advantages that should put the importance of waterproofing into perspective.

The four main benefits of waterproofing your deck or stairs are:

1. Safety: Preexisting materials used for many decks and staircases can crack and split as time goes on and water pours over it. A lifted portion of wood can be a trip hazard, and uncoated stairs are generally more skid-prone when people hurry down them. Waterproofing provides a simple way to reduce hazards and accidents around your property. If you are renting out your property, such as in an apartment complex, this is a crucial step in helping reduce liability for any slip and fall accidents that may occur on your land.
2. Style: The beautiful look of your property must extend beyond railings, window frames, door art, etc. The appearance of the ground is just as important. When you choose to waterproof your deck or stairs, you can select from a collection of colors to blend with and enhance the beauty of your property.
3. Protection: This benefit is essentially right in the name. Waterproofing your decks and stairs protects them from environmental damage that chips away and deteriorates uncoated surfaces. By protecting the walkways on your property, you can also keep the value of your property from dropping.
4. Price: Speaking of value, waterproofing your deck or stairs is all about saving money in the long run. If floors and steps get damaged, you will need to replace them sooner than later, both for safety concerns and to maintain the overall value of your property. But if you waterproof them now before damage occurs, you will not have to worry about maintaining them year after year, putting dollar after dollar into your decks and stairs.

If you would like more information about the many benefits of waterproofing your deck and stairs, you can contact Capital Deck & Stair Waterproofing. Our specialists in Los Angeles can answer all of your questions, drawing upon our 30+ years of industry experience. You can also get a free estimate for any projects you are thinking of completing.