About Dan Donavin Expertise I can answer questions regarding planning, repairing, hiring contractors, and building decks, stairs, landings, and most residential outdoor woodwork. I know the building codes for my surrounding counties but I cannot answer specific question on passing inspections unless it is something nationwide.
Experience I have 10 years of carpentry experience and the last five years owning my own company. I currently build, repair and replace stairs and decking for new construction, remodeling, and commercial customers. I am often called on to bring stairs and decks up to code in new construction sites. I have used most new types of decking, railing, post, and fencing materials that are on the market.
Organizations Habit for Humanity
Concrete Network
Education/Credentials College of Dupage two years business and sales coursework
Expert: Dan Donavin Date: 6/25/2008 Subject: Which is the best coating and how many?
Question I just power-washed my deck in preparation for putting on good coating(s) so it can be as durable as it can be.
There are primer, base coat, stain, paint, waterproofing, sealer, elastomeric urethane, etc. I am quite confused. What I want is to put on the best, most durable layers of protective coat(s) on my deck to prevent mildew, UV lights, fading, flaking and all the rest .
Will it be best to 1st put on a layer of primer, then stain/paint a couple of layers and lastly a waterproof sealer?
That will be at least 4, 5 layers. It's a lot of work but what's the alternative if I want to get the same kind of durability, water and mildew resistant and long-lasting performance?
Also, which deck stain/base-coat do you think is the best? My research came down to two brands: DEFY and SuperDeck. Your thoughts and advice please.
Many Thanks...Mimi
Answer Hi Mimi,
That is the best process but most people powerwash then do a one or two coat sealer/stain and are done with it. Defy and Super deck are both good brands but I always recommend One Time Wood because of the seven year guarantee http://www.onetimewood.com/ is their site to order. They have step by step guide to prepare the deck and apply the sealer.
Good Luck
Dan Donavin
Gorgeous Finish Works LLC
gorgeousbuilders@yahoo.com
