How to Strip Decking Back to New

Decking has become increasingly popular with homeowners over the recent years. The desire to spend more time in our gardens or create outdoors spaces that customers can enjoy allows us to connect with nature and appreciate the local surroundings. While decking materials have advanced too, becoming more durable and long-lasting, the time may have come for you to rejuvenate or renovate yours. And, to do this, you’ll want to strip back the existing paint or varnish, giving a fresh surface to work with. In this blog, we’ll cover how to do just this.

Why prepare your decking surface?

Because decking is an external feature, it is continuously exposed to changing weather conditions. From torrential rain through to direct sunlight, these conditions have an impact on the wood and the finishes you use. Fluctuating temperatures cause wood to expand and shrink. UV rays degrade the structural integrity of the wood. Water, especially that which polls on the top of decking surfaces, softens the material and weakens it internally. Over time, you may notice that the varnishes or paint you originally chose fades and becomes less appealing to look at. Or, degraded sections of your decking may no longer be safe to walk on and require additional care to reduce the risk of slipping.

How to strip decking

Before embarking on this project, you’ll want to make sure you have removed dirt and debris. Brush down your decking entirely and shift any stubborn dirt marks with hot, soapy water. The best, and most effective method for removing paint, oils or stains from wood is by using a chemical wood stripper. These partially dissolve the paint, causing it to bubble/blister and making it easier to remove.

Apply this generously across the surface of your decking and allow it to work - this should happen within approximately 10 minutes. For some areas, you may need to leave it for as long as 40 minutes. Once the surface has bubbled, use a scraper knife to remove the paint. If it comes away easily, you are ready to get to work. Sandpaper can be used in very stubborn areas.

After you have removed all the paint, wash down the surface and allow it to dry. This process will take your wood back to its previous, uncoated beauty and allow you to choose a new style or finish to work with. If you would like any other advice or information about decking restoration, please do get in contact with the team here at Sealant & Tools Direct today.