Hi, I am just starting up a deck restoration business.  I am new to the quoting side of the business.  For stripping and staining a deck, what would be an appropriate price per square foot to quote the customer. just a general ball park would be great because I know there are a lot of other factors that come into the quote.

cheers,

sam

10 Tips When Hiring a Wood or Deck Restoration Contractor

1. Never hire the $99 Deck Cleaning Company! It is not possible to clean a deck properly for $99. The use of proper wood cleaners, wood strippers, and wood brighteners will be needed. This alone can exceed the $99 in some cases. Most likely a $99 deck contractor will damage your deck from inexperience.

2. Make sure your contractor uses quality equipment, cleaning products, and wood stains. Never hire a contractor who uses "Big Box" stores brands. An experienced wood restoration contractor would never purchase their products from Home Depot or Lowes, especially their deck stains!

3. Do not hire a contractor unless he can produce references if requested. Make sure they are valid references as well. Ask for some addresses near your home so you will be able to see their work first hand.

4. Ask Questions! Make sure he knows the type of wood, what it will take to prep the wood, and the type of stain he will be using for maximum performance. Ask how many days it will take to schedule the start and how long until completion.

5. Make sure your contractor explains thoroughly explains everything in writing. This should include all procedures, brands of stains and cleaners being used, payment terms, and any disclaimers if applicable.

6. Check to see they are licensed (depends on state) and carry liability/workers compensation insurance. You do no want a worker hurting themselves on your property! If they are uninsured, they can make a claim against your homeowners insurance. Do not take their word, ask to see a copy of their insurance declarations page.

7. Do not give large deposits. An experienced contractor should not need money down to purchase their materials. We suggest zero deposits for less then $1500 and 20% or less if over $1500.

8. Do not pay balance until work is completed. Look over project and address any concerns prior to final payment.

9. Make sure to get at least 2 or more quotes. Compare products and procedures first before comparing the price. Typically you will get what you pay for.

10. Do not automatically hire the lowest price! In today's world it is not possible to have the best products, highest quality of service, and the lowest price. I would suggest choosing the contractor who has shown the most knowledge, history of satisfied customers, and is using high end materials.

For more info read 101 Wood Deck Restoration Tips

I am sure there are more tips that I have missed. Feel free to add some below in the comment section.

Wooden decks are a great way to improve the curb appeal and value of your home. Decks are becoming increasingly popular as they add outdoor living space which adds to your home's resale value. Most home buyers see this added space as a huge benefit as barbecues, parties, and family get togethers can increase your quality of living.

Wood decks do however require some maintenance for optimal longevity. When wood is subjected to the elements it can warp, split, crack, and splinter causing the wood to deteriorate. Rain and morning dew cause the wood to swell as it draws in moisture. The sun then dries the wood and causes it to shrink, it is this constant swelling and shrinking that begins to damage the wood fibers. The sun's UV rays will also cause the wood fibers to turn gray as the wood ages. A neglected deck can be unsafe and quite an eyesore bringing down your property value. This is where a reputable deck cleaning company can help.

Wood professionals can protect a newer wooden deck and can bring old decks back to life. Wood decks need to be protected from moisture and the sun with deck stain or deck sealer. A good deep penetrating deck sealer will lock out moisture and give the wood adequate sun protection. This will help the deck stay newer looking and increase its longevity.

Most wooden decks need to be maintained every couple of years as the deck sealer will begin to fade and wear due to weather, traffic, and other factors. A professional deck cleaning company can sign you up on a deck maintenance program so your deck will always be protected and maintain its beauty from year to year. Contact a professional deck cleaning company in your area to find out how they can help with all your deck restoration needs.

Are You Really Thinking About Using Behr Deck Stain?

            1/15/2010

            Homeowners across the nation have enjoyed many occasions on their decks, be it summer time barbecues, birthday parties, even graduation parties. Decks are a great tool to host friends, family, and a place where you can sit and enjoy some peace and quiet.

            However, that enjoyment usually fades pretty quickly when it comes time for deck maintenance. You, like many homeowners, probably wishes there was some kind of deck stain you could put on your deck, and have it look great for several years.

            Well, my friend, I am here to tell you there is really not a product out there that last 5-7 years like some deck stains claim they do. The main deck stain that claims such a thing is from Behr.

            Behr deck stains is an acrylic based deck stain that basically lays on the surface of the wood. There is really minimal (if any) penetration of this deck stain. It just coats the surface of the wood, similar to what paint would do.

            Over time, wood loses their natural oils. These oils need to be replenished to keep the wood from drying out and cracking. Behr does not do this. Since Behr only coats the surface of the wood, your wood deck is starving for these much needed oils it needs to maintain longevity.

            Another issue you will have using a Behr Deck Stain is the quality of the stain itself. Instead of lasting several years, you will be fortunate if it last several months on your horizontal surfaces. As a owner of a Deck Staining and Restoration St. Louis Company, we have found numerous times that Behr Stains like to flake or start peeling off of horizontal surfaces before the stain is a year old. And even though in some places it is flaking and peeling, Behr deck stains are extremely hard to strip off of the surface, and could be quite costly.

            Our recommendation is to always use an oil based deck stain. Clean the wood properly using a good deck cleaner and apply a good oil based deck stain. In 18-24 months, you will need a light cleaning and a reapplication of the oil based deck stain you used before to keep your deck looking great. Make sure you wait at least twenty four hours before walking on your deck. And when staining, make sure you always tape off next to the house to protect your vinyl siding. Have some cloths and some mineral spirits on hand just in case you get some stain on the siding so you can immediately wipe the stain off. Don’t wait until later, or you may have an issue.

            Happy Staining, and here’s to more great parties you’ll have on your deck!

Since 2001, Windsor WoodCare has been providing the Central New Jersey and surrounding areas the finest in wood restoration services.

• We only restore exterior wood. That's all we do!
• Full service, including carpentry repairs.
• Specializing in exotic woods, including ipe', mahoganies, and cedars.

Please visit central NJ deck restoration services for more information.

OPW has restored over 7000 decks in the Metro Detroit area since 1993. Our Deck Restoration Services in Metro Detroit include:

• Removal of failed Deck Stain
• Brightening and Neutralizing of Wood
• Application of Armstrong Wood Stain

We will periodically post some photos of our Restoration Services using the Armstrong Clark Wood Stain.

Scott Paul