How do I refinish my deck?
See the cleaning and maintenance instructions here. These instructions are accompanied by two demonstration videos! This document will tell you everything you need to know from the products we recommend to the processes that have had the most success.
Maintenance of hardwood decking is nearly always the same, regardless of the species.
How do I clean my deck?
See the cleaning and maintenance instructions here. These instructions are accompanied by two demonstration videos! This document will tell you everything you need to know from the products we recommend to the processes that have had the most success.
Maintenance of hardwood decking is nearly always the same, regardless of the species.
What is the best deck finish for hardwoods?
Messmer’s. Brazilian Wood Depot stocks this finish. See the cleaning and maintenance instructions here.
Should I clean my deck before refinishing it?
Cleaning it will remove the gray, open up the pores to help it receive the new finish better and remove dirt. Cleaning it before finishing it is often a good idea.
Should I pressure wash my deck before finishing it?
NO. Pressure washing it will leave streaks, potentially tear up the surface of the wood and will not clean as deeply as the cleaner.
Can I apply more than one coat?
NO. More than one thin, back-brushed coat will leave it sticky. Too much is worse than not enough. Only apply a second coat after the previous coat has begun to show some weather.
How do I apply the finish?
Apply with a brush or rag and back brush it to remove puddles. Puddles leave a bad result. Do a few boards at a time before going onto next few boards. This will help minimize overlap marks. For more information, visit our decking installation page. For a how-to from the Messner’s site. Click here.
You can also find an in-depth video on our Videos page, Ipe Deck Maintenance Video. This video applies to ALL species of Brazilian Hardwoods.
What is the best hardwood decking?
All of our hardwood decking is very durable, beautiful and will last a lifetime. Your best choice will be based on aesthetic appearance and price. Visit our decking page for more detailed information on the species we offer.
You can also find an in-depth video describing some of the differences between the species, on our Videos page, Ipe Vs Other Brazilian Hardwoods.
How do I fasten the decking?
You cannot use nails. You must predrill and screw the boards down or use a hidden fastener. Click here to read our Blog post on hidden deck fasteners. We also offer the Camo Deck Fastener System. Click here for more information on the Camo System.
What are the best screws to use?
Brazilian Wood Depot stocks the best fastening options available. #8 x 2.5” stainless steel screws with a colored head look and hold the best. We also offer the correct drill bits and drivers.
Can the deck color be restored after it has grayed?
Yes. Click here to read our Blog post: Cleaning and Refinishing Hardwood Decking.
You can also find an in-depth video on our Videos page, Ipe Deck Maintenance Video. This video applies to ALL species of Brazilian Hardwoods.
What deck board size is best for hardwood decking
The 1×6 (net .75” x 5.5”) deck boards are the most cost effective and easiest to install. Thicker boards of this very hard and stiff decking cost more and are simply not necessary.
Do I also need to upgrade my under deck joist system to hardwood to get the most out of my new hardwood deck?
NO. Using pressure treated joists is much more cost effective and the new hardwood decking will protect your pressure treated joists from excessive decay.
How do I get my new decking to my job site since Atlanta is further than I can go to pick it up?
We ship our decking everywhere at such a competitive price that the overall cost leaves you with a great value. In addition, we crate our shipments very thoroughly to ensure delivery of an undamaged product.
Can I install new decking right over the top of my existing deck?
NO. Visit our installation page for more information on deck ventilation, subfloors and more.
Do I need a subfloor under my new T&G hardwood decking?
No. Vist our installation page for more information on deck ventilation, subfloors and more.
Do thicker boards resist cupping better?
Not really. Click here to read our Blog post: Install Fascia, Trim, Border and Wrap Deck Boards To Prevent Cupping or Warping.
How does the cost of hardwood decking compare to composite decking?
The range of composite decking prices covers about the same range of the different hardwood decking options. Taking into consideration the long life, durability, beauty, and stability of hardwood decking compared to composite: hardwood decking costs less over the lifetime. Visit our comparison page for more information.
How does purchasing hardwood decking actually HELP sustain the rain forests?
Hardwood decking is a renewable, recyclable resource. Visit Realwood.org for more information.
Is hardwood decking treated with chemicals?
No. The density that the species have evolved to prevent rot and insect damage without the need for chemicals.
How do I finish the boards that meet together at the ends?
Click here to read our Blog post: Finishing Touch Hardwood Deck Designs for more information on eased ends.
Where does Brazilian Wood Depot Ship?
We ship to all areas of the US.
