DEDICATE YOUR CHECK TO YOUR DECK (OR PATIO)
A Makeover Doesn't Have to Tax Your Bank Account
Tax rebate checks have started to arrive. While the temptation might be to bury the money in your backyard, consider investing part of it in your backyard to create a retreat from trying times and a place to celebrate successes.
"A deck or patio makeover doesn't have to be a costly project. In fact, the project could cost as little as $100-$150 dollars for an average-sized deck, said Jeff Wilson, a HGTV/DIY Networks host and spokesperson for the Thompson's® Water Seal® brand. "If you already have some of the supplies, or can borrow them, the cost goes down even more. Either way, that's only part of the tax refund check that many people will receive, and you've improved the looks, value and enjoyment of your home."
Independent research conducted for The Thompson's Company, makers of the Thompson's® Water Seal® brand waterproofers, stains and cleaners shows the average deck measures 200 square feet (20'x10'). Even homeowners with a substantially larger deck or who want to use more than one color on the deck could still makeover their deck, and many will still have some tax refund "funds" remaining for other projects.
Following is Jeff's estimate to clean and waterproof an average deck (200 square feet, no railings). All prices are based on items found at national home improvement stores and are pre-tax. "You might be able to find items on sale or at an even lower cost," he said.
DEDICATE YOUR CHECK TO YOUR DECK/ADD ONE
PRODUCTS/TOOLS |
ESTIMATED COST |
Cleaner |
1-2 gallons at $6-$12 per gallon ($6-$24 total) Thompson’s® Water Seal® Cleaners treat 100-250 square feet per gallon, depending on the specific product) |
Waterproofer |
1-2 gallons at $15-$21 per gallon ($15-$42 total) |
Pump-up Garden Sprayer (reusable) |
$20 |
Deck Brush for scrubbing (reusable) |
$10 |
Paint Pad & Pole (reusable) |
$11 |
Paint Tray/Liner (tray is reusable) |
$10 |
Plastic Drop Cloths to cover shrubs (reusable) |
$13 |
Gloves and Eye Protection (reusable) |
$9 |
Mineral Spirits |
$12 |
| ESTIMATED TOTAL COST: | $106-$151 |
"Every deck is different, and there are variables," said Wilson. "If your deck is cedar, you may need two cleaners - one to remove the old coating and another to bring back the wood's natural color. A pressure washer is also a wonderful tool in a lot of cases. You can rent those for about $60 per day, buy an inexpensive model - or better yet, borrow one from a neighbor for free."
Wilson adds that concrete patios or porches are also great, affordable makeover candidates. "The steps - clean and waterproof -mirror the steps to a deck makeover and use the same tools. The Thompson's® Water Seal® Concrete Care 100% Acrylic Latex Waterproofing Stain comes in 40 vibrant colors, so you can radically change the look of gray concrete."
If you have questions about getting started on your outdoor makeover, visit our Do It Yourself section. You can even submit a question to Jeff Wilson for expert advice-tax free.
