Benefits of Waterproofing Your Home's Plywood Deck

A plywood deck is a great way to add some extra living space to your home. But, if you don’t waterproof it, it won’t last for long. Waterproofing your deck will protect it from the elements and ensure it lasts for years to come. Here are a few of the benefits of waterproofing your home’s plywood deck.

Benefits of Waterproofing Your Plywood Deck

Waterproofing your plywood deck has a number of benefits. Here are just a few of them:

Protection From the Elements

Without waterproofing, your plywood deck will be exposed to the sun, rain, and other weather conditions. This can cause the wood to swell and warp, which can weaken it and make it less durable. By waterproofing your deck, you can extend its life and keep it looking its best.

Improved Durability

When the wood is exposed to moisture, it can become weaker and more susceptible to damage. By waterproofing your deck, you can ensure that the wood remains strong and can stand up to everyday wear and tear. This will make your deck last longer and increase its overall lifespan.

Reduced Maintenance

Without waterproofing, you’ll have to regularly treat your deck to keep it looking its best. With waterproofing, you won’t have to worry about this as much, as the waterproof coating will help keep the wood in good condition for longer. This will save you time and money in the long run.

Improved Safety

If you don’t waterproof your deck, the wood can become slippery when wet. This can increase the risk of slips and falls, especially if you have kids or pets. By waterproofing your deck, you can make sure that it remains safe and reduce the risk of injury.

Steps to Waterproof Your Deck

If you want to waterproof your plywood deck, there are a few steps you’ll need to follow. Here’s what you need to do:

Clean the Deck

You’ll need to remove any dirt, debris, and other contaminants from the wood. You can do this with a pressure washer or by scrubbing the wood with a brush and soapy water. Once you’ve cleaned the deck, you can move on to the next step.

Repair Any Damaged Areas

If there are any cracks or holes in the wood, you’ll need to fill them in with wood putty or another suitable material. You may also need to sand down any rough spots. Once you’ve done this, you can move on to the next step.

Apply the Waterproof Coating

Once the deck is clean and repaired, you’ll need to apply the waterproof coating. There are a variety of waterproofing products available, so you’ll need to choose the one that best suits your needs. Make sure to read the product instructions carefully and follow them closely to ensure optimal performance.

Let it Dry

Most products require at least 24 hours of drying time, so make sure to give it enough time before you use the deck. Once the coating has dried, you can enjoy your newly waterproof plywood deck.

DIY or Professional Waterproofing?

When it comes to waterproofing your plywood deck, you have two options: do it yourself or hire a professional. Both have their own pros and cons, so you’ll need to choose the option that best suits your needs.

DIY Waterproofing: If you want to save money, DIY waterproofing is probably the best option. You’ll need to buy the necessary supplies, but these can be found at most home improvement stores, so they won’t be too expensive. Plus, you’ll be able to do the job yourself, so you won’t have to pay for labor costs. However, it’s important to note that DIY waterproofing can be time-consuming and difficult, so make sure you have the necessary knowledge and skills before attempting it.

Professional Waterproofing: If you don’t have the time or skills to do the job yourself, you may want to consider hiring a professional. Professional waterproofing companies have the experience and expertise to get the job done right. Plus, they’ll be able to apply the waterproof coating quickly and efficiently. Of course, hiring a professional will cost you more money, but it will save you time and ensure that your deck is properly waterproofed.

Liquid Rubber should be part of your deck waterproofing plans. 

Liquid Rubber is the preferred solution for many homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, with easy-to-apply products and video tutorials that help you get the best results. Browse our online catalog to see our products, and easily order all the supplies we've featured here.