Keeping DecksIn Ship-Shape Condition Year-Round (NAPSA)—Theaverage cost of building a new deck is about $6,000, approximately the same price as a new plasma-screen TV. Yet, the average annual cost of maintaining a deck is about the same as going to dinner and a movie. Annual maintenance can stop common deck problems before they ruin decks—and household budgets. In a recent survey, durability (the ability of a finish to wear a long time before having to reapply) and wood protection were the most important factors for consumers when choosing deck stains and waterproofers. Other important factors include color retention, protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays and mildew protection. A new product on the market answersthis call from consumers. Behr Premium Weatherproofing Wood Sealer & Finish outlasts competitive products in terms of durability, wood protection and color retention, particularly when used on horizontal surfaces. “We’ve created a superior product that combines the benefits of both oil and water-based products with the added protection ofsilicone,” said Tom Lee, vice president marketing, Behr. “More than a waterproofer, this truly is a weatherproofer that provides durability and resistance to rain, sun, sleet, hail, snow and wind.” The new weatherproofer provides the penetrating power that oil-based products offer for durability and protection. It also has the UV protection and fade resistance of acrylics. However, one of the biggest advantages of the finish is convenience. It can be applied to damp or dry wood and cleans up with soap — and water, thereby saving you time. Silicone has also been added to the product to enhance B durability, water g repellency and co- & lor retention. In i addition, silicone, ,.4% by its chemical na-| ture, is exception- gm ally UV resistant. =a Unlike wax emul- Deck Duty—Alittle maintenance can keep sions used by other gecks looking great for years. products, silicone does not appreciably degrade from exposureto the sun’s rays. Following are some simple steps for a hassle-free, do-it-yourself deck refinish: Get the Right Equipment: You'll need rubber gloves, plastic drop cloths (to protect flowers and vegetation), goggles, broom, hose with spray nozzle, good quality brush, #4” nap paint roller or pad with arm extension, paint tray with liner and deck stain/waterproofer. Clean It: Sweep your deck and remove debris. * Prep It: Home centers carry a variety of different Behr deck prep products. Depending on the condition of your deck, a finish remover, mildew stain remover and wood brightener/conditioner may be needed. Before applying deck prep products, make sure that you are wearing protective goggles and gloves, and then follow the label instructions for application. Most deck prep products are sim- ply sprayed on, scrubbed lightly, then rinsed off. Finish It: Pour weatherproofer into a lined paint tray and apply using a paint roller or brush. Coat a small area ata time, maintaining a wet edge when applying. Always remove excess product and evenly distribute the finish by brushing backward on the surface during all application methods. Apply product end to end or to board lengths to prevent marks left on the finished surface from one coat’s edge drying before the edge of the previous one, resulting in an uneven thickness. Coat wood onall sides for optimum performance and always follow manufacturers’ label instructions. Maintain It: Decks should be cleaned regularly and recoated as needed, as fallen leaves and other debris can damagethefinish. For more deck prep and maintenance information visit www.behr.com.
