How To Apply Deck Stain

The most important step in applying a deck stain is to assure that the deck is clean. The best product you can choose to restore a deck will remove gray wood and dirt as well as kill mold. Once the wood is clean, you should choose an oil based deck stain to protect the wood from moisture. Now we can discuss how to apply the stain so that you can avoid lap marks and over applying.

Paint rollers are not the best method to apply a stain or sealer to a deck. Rollers will splash stain onto siding or brick as well as generally over apply the staining product leaving roller marks. Most contractors will use a sprayer to apply the product. This is the most efficient process and can be duplicated by homeowners using a pump sprayer. Once the deck stain is applied it should be worked into the wood using a process called back brushing. Back brushing stain can be achieved with a paint brush for rails and spindles. A more efficient procedure for the floor is to use a stain pad. If the wood is older and nails are a problem, a soft bristled truck brush also works well. Working the stain into the wood will prevent drips and allow the finish to cure deeper into the surface. Using this process of saturating the wood and brushing out will remove excess product and make the finish last long. When done right, your deck will have an even look that even a professional would be proud to call complete.

What Are The Black Streaks On My Roof

Black streaks or stains on asphalt shingles are caused by a hardy type of airborne algae. The algae land on your roof and feed on the crushed limestone that is used in asphalt shingles. Rain then spreads the algae down the roof causing black streaks. This algae doesn’t allow the shingles to reflect heat properly and causes them to fail prematurely.

The good news is these algae can be killed and removed without harming the shingles, by using “low pressure” techniques and cleaning solutions recommended by the major shingle manufactures (never allow a pressure washer to be used on your roof).

It’s a fact that 50% of roofs are replaced due to the way they look and not their functionality. Replacing a roof that is suffering from algae is like replacing your vinyl siding because it has mold and mildew on it, it just doesn’t make sense. If your shingles appear to still be in good shape and are only suffering from roof algae, there is a good chance you can save yourself thousands of dollars by having your roof properly cleaned instead of replaced. Find a reputable roof cleaning contractor in your area and make sure that they use the low pressure method. Having your roof properly cleaned will allow you to get the expected life out of your roof.

Contractors Rate Vinyl Replacement Windows

Vinyl Replacement Windows, How Do You Rate Them?

I have been answering the same question over and over again on Home Improvement web-sites, which window is the best. Most window buyers have no idea how to rate a window company. Rating windows is not as easy as saying one is better than the other one. Consider these things when rating windows:

Looks - which window looks the best to you the owner. Does the window look good viewed from both the inside and the outside?

Function - does the window meet your needs? Do you want the sashes to tilt in for easy cleaning?

Options - does the window company offer the options that you need? How about colors, windows are now sold in several different color both on the inside and the outside. Window screen are now available with several different options.

Maintenance - do you want a window that is easy to clean and does not require any painting or staining?

Warranty - how long is the warranty that they offer? Will the company be around to honor the warranty? Does the warranty cover labor? Is the warranty pro-rated? Do you have to buy replacement parts at an inflated price?

NFRC Ratings - Do you care about how good the glass is? Do you understand the benefits of triple pane glass? Do you know the differences between the different spacers? Do you know about Argon gas or Kyrpton Gas?

Customer Service - will the company handle your window issues in a timely manner. If one of your sashes (glass) breaks how long will it take to get you a new one.

You should check the BBB reports, and several of the other on-line complaint databases to get a feel for what people are saying about a company.