Expert Advice on Decks

BEAUTI-TIPS FOR YOUR DECK
EXPERT ADVICE
ALL DECKED OUT
Before you get all decked out, though, there are two simple
secrets to a long-lasting finish – quality stain and prep work.
Together they’re a dynamic duo. Without them, you might be
doing your project again next year.
We understand. Prep work is a bit like homework – beneficial but who wants to do it! However, since 90% of stain
failure is due to lack of prep work, it’s key. Here are the
simple, easy steps to protect your investment for a lifetime of
enjoyment. If you are working with a brand new surface,
always check moisture content to ensure that the wood has
had sufficient time to dry. If so, you’ve earned a pass all the
way to the Shiny is Out step! If the surface is not new, you
got it – it’s step one for you!
TO STRIP OR NOT TO STRIP
Deep down, you know it! If your existing stain is 30% to 50%
peeling it is best to remove the coating and start fresh.
Natura Safe Strip effectively removes stain and paint from
both horizontal and vertical surfaces. And, unlike sanding, it
will not grind existing mildew deeper into the wood.
GREEN CLEAN
Stain – you wouldn’t want it on your clothes,
but on your outdoor wood décor – it’s a thing of beauti!
SHINY IS OUT
Stains need to penetrate to be effective. New wood will
sometimes have sheen known as mill glaze, which prevents
stain from penetrating. Simply sand with 80 grit sandpaper
or use Wood Shield Wood Restorer.
Phew! Now that the prep work is done, it’s time to add the
beauty. Choose between a semi-transparent stain which will
allow the natural grain and characteristic of the wood to
show through, or a solid stain which will penetrate the wood
and highlight the texture of the wood. Beauti-Tone’s WoodShield semi-transparent is available in 60 colours and
Wood-Shield solid can be mixed in virtually any colour.
Manufactured in Canada by Home Hardware in a full array
of paints and stains, Beauti-Tone is sold exclusively at Home
Hardware, Home Hardware Building Centre, and Home
Building Centre stores. Consultant with your local Canada’s
Paint Expert for the stain that suits you, and your wood, best.
WOOD•SHIELD BEST
Item# 1866-804
Your surface must be free from mildew, dirt and grease.
Mildew sometimes cannot be seen, but if not removed it will
cause the stain to peel. Assume it’s there and treat the
surface with Natura Mildew Off. Next, remove grease and
dirt with Natura Safe Prep. By the way, while your surface is
getting clean, the environment is staying green. All Natura
products are formulated to be safe for the environment.
GET THE GREY OUT
Wood needs a good facial before staining. That grey wood
you want to cover up with stain is actually dead wood fibres
that are sitting on top on the wood. If not removed, as soon
as moisture penetrates, they, along with your new stain, will
lift. Remove greyed wood with Natura Wood Prep or Wood
Shield Wood Restorer.
WOOD•SHIELD BEST
Item# 1870-831