Questions & Answers
On this page you’ll find answers to several questions that we’ve consistently received over the years. The “Wizard of Wood” and his team compiled this list to be of benefit to both homeowners and contractors.
Q. Why is there so much contradictory information on how to restore decks and wood?
A. People want the opportunity to belong or even help others by posting information or videos of their experiences with the notion of being helpful. Unfortunately, this is not always the “best” information. We believe there are Good, Better, and Best practices. At Deck and Wood Pros we are offering the BEST methods and practices.
Q. What makes Deck and Wood Pros the experts?
A. Deck and Wood Pros is led by Everett Abrams, known internationally as the “Wizard of Wood” and taught over 10,000 contractors across the United States and beyond for multiple Associations, Organizations, and Companies. Everett is also a Past President and Board of Director of the Power Washers of North America (PWNA), Wrote and Designed the Exterior Wood Restoration Class used on multiple current industry platforms. He has also operated a company for over 32 years that specializes in exterior, outdoor living space services like deck building, exterior wood restoration, exterior concrete and paver restoration and sealing, window cleaning, general contracting, and more. Everett has helped create the standards that are used today for the industry at large. Sharing his expertise with a broader audience is what he is passionate about.
Q. Some information states “no pressure washing.” Does Pressure Washing damage the wood?
A. A pressure washer is the most widely used piece of equipment in exterior wood restoration. It should not be used in all cases as other methods may be more favorable on specific projects. Because of the various power of these machines and their versatile uses, they are often misused in exterior wood restoration. “Pressure” does not clean or restore and if you are using the pressure of the machine, you likely will cause scarring and damage the wood. The machine should be used as a giant “low-pressure rinsing tool” that actually aids you in using less pressure with larger volumes of water to get the job completed more favorably and in less time with the aid of the correct products. Using surfactants, wood cleaners, wood strippers, and wood brighteners with high volume of water at low pressure will restore wood correctly. Usually this requires changing to a larger orifice tip to keep the volume and reduce the pressure. Most jobs can be performed at 300-1000psi. The rule is the only use the pressure needed to complete the job while staying 6-12 inches above the wood surfaces. Keep in mind, this work can be done with garden hose type pressure and the aid of the products, using a pressure washer should speed up the process while delivering excellent results.
Q. How can a company from New Jersey help me with my outdoor project?
A. This is an easy question! With today’s technology and multiple platform for communication, we have helped many homeowners through projects like full log cabin restoration and many contractors from deck builds to paver sanding, sealing, and restoration. We use our phones, computer, and apps utilizing Face Time, Zoom, Marco Polo, and more to communicate and coach. We have also taught remote classes to many folks, so this is something we are well versed in.
Q. What is the best deck and wood stain?
A. The is no perfect deck and wood stain, if there was, we would all be using it. Depending on the project, who will be maintaining it, and many factors will help determine the best product for a project. For some it may be a deck and wood sealer, for others a semi-transparent stain, and others a solid stain may be the right choice. We can discuss your project and help make recommendations and give you the information to make the best decision for you!
Q. I want to build a new deck, how long will it take?
A. That depends on the project size and details. The items to consider when building a deck and the time frame are what else is there beyond the actual building of the deck. It starts with a plan and a design. Then when you have plans you submit them to your local township, and you may have to go through Zoning and Construction offices. The time frame for approvals varies from state to state and township to township. They also may need more information like a site plan of the property. Then once you have approvals and building begins there are inspections, and the contractor will be at the mercy of the township and their schedule. Not uncommon for a footing inspection, a framing inspection, and then a final inspection. The point being it may take many decks 10-15 actual workdays however, when everything is considered, it is not uncommon for the process and planning to take 3 months or more. Then when all this is considered, you need to evaluate your contractor’s schedule and workload. Once a decision is made to build a deck it will usually take months, not weeks to complete from A to Z.
Q. I have a pressure treated pine, wood deck, does it need to be sealed or stained?
A. Yes it does! Pressure treating wood makes it resistant to wood destroying insects, rot, and decay, it does not make it resistant to the elements and the weather. There is a misconception that a pressure treated wood deck does not need a preservative coating however, a pressure treated deck left uncoated can warp, check, crack, and need replacing in 7-10 years if neglected.
Q. Do my pavers need to be maintained?
A. Like most things, having a maintenance plan does two things, it addresses both appearance and longevity. Pavers and concrete can get slippery if neglected and a build up of organic growth appears. Cleaning periodically with a pressure washer and a surface cleaner attachment will keep them skid proof and looking good. Over time pavers can loosen and have issues, periodic cleaning and re-sanding the joints helps maintain their integrity and help them last longer.
Q. What is the best composite decking to use?
A. This is like what is the best stain. Meaning, that if there was one “best” product then everyone would use that particular manufacturer. There are many great manufacturers in the alternative decking industry. Some people choose one over another because of color choice, warranty length, budget, uses, and personal preferences. We can help you look at the differences and help you with your choice.
Q. Beside the building of a deck, what are some features for us to consider?
A. Even just an average deck you will have options to consider. What type of railing from metal to vinyl, and wood to composite. Will you add a drink rail to the top. What type of lighting, Electrical or solar? Will you add lights above, in the steps, or on the railings? What are my options with an outdoor kitchen? Should I add a pergola or arbor? How about an adjoining patio and fire pit? These are just examples of features to add to any deck and we can help you decide and plan on these features.
Q. What is the difference between paint and solid stain?
A. Paints prevent the weather and moisture from going through the coating while protecting the surface. Solid stains are “permeable” and allow for moisture to go through the coating and not trap moisture inside. This is why a solid stain, and not a paint, is used on a wood deck. Painting a deck may shorten the life of the wood by trapping in the moisture, specifically when a wood railing is painted on all sides. There is a difference.