Don't Let Toronto's Rain Ruin Your Deck: How to Waterproof Your Deck in the City

If you live in Toronto, chances are you have a deck that you enjoy spending time on during the summer months. But if you don't take the necessary precautions, your deck can suffer from the city's often wet and rainy weather. That's why it's important to waterproof your deck if you live in Toronto.

In this blog post, we'll cover why you need to waterproof your deck, the steps you can take to do it yourself, the benefits, and whether you should do it yourself or hire a professional.

Why You Need to Waterproof Your Deck in Toronto

Toronto is known for its wet, rainy weather and without proper protection, your deck can suffer from the elements. Water can seep into the wood and cause it to rot and decay, leaving your deck looking worn and unattractive. What’s more, water can cause the wood to warp and crack, leading to structural damage and the need for costly repairs. To prevent this, it's important to waterproof your deck so it can last for years to come.

Steps to Waterproof Your Deck

The first step is to inspect your deck for any signs of damage. Look for rotting, warping, and cracking, and if you do find any damage, make sure to repair it before you start waterproofing. You should also clean your deck thoroughly to get rid of any dirt and debris that can interfere with the waterproofing process.

Once your deck is prepped and ready to go, it's time to look into the different waterproofing methods.There are several ways to waterproof your deck, and it's important to choose the right one for your particular needs. 

The most common methods are:

• Sealants
• Stains
• Coatings

Sealants like Liquid Rubber’s Cool Foot Deck Coating are a great option for protecting your deck from the elements. They are designed to create a protective barrier on the surface of the wood, which can help keep out moisture and extend the life of your deck. Stains are also a good choice, as they can help protect the wood while also adding color and enhancing the look of your deck. 

Whichever method you choose, make sure to read the instructions carefully and follow them carefully. It's also recommended to use a brush or roller to apply the waterproofing material, as this can help ensure even coverage.

Benefits of a Waterproofed Deck

Waterproofing your deck has many benefits, the most obvious one being that it can protect your deck from the elements. By creating a waterproof barrier, you can help keep out moisture, dirt, and other debris, extending the life of your deck and saving you money on repairs. To top it off, waterproofing can help protect the wood from warping and cracking, and can even prevent mold and mildew from forming.

Another benefit of waterproofing is that it can enhance the look of your deck. Depending on the material you use, you can add color and texture to your wood, making it look more attractive and inviting. And if you use a non-toxic solution like Liquid Rubber, it can also help protect the environment. This is because by creating a waterproof barrier, you can help limit the amount of water that seeps into the ground and contaminates nearby water sources.

DIY or Contracted? How to Decide

When it comes to waterproofing your deck, you have two options: do it yourself or hire a contractor. If you're confident in your DIY skills, you can likely handle the job yourself. Just make sure to read the instructions carefully and take your time. It's also important to use the right materials for the job, as this will help ensure the best results.

On the other hand, if you're not confident in your DIY skills or don't have the time to handle the job yourself, you may want to consider hiring a contractor. A professional can help ensure that the job is done properly and that your deck is properly protected from the elements.

Let's Wrap Things Up

Waterproofing your deck is an important part of home maintenance and should not be overlooked, especially if you live in Toronto. By taking the necessary steps to waterproof your deck, you can help extend its life and prevent costly repairs in the future. You can either do it yourself or hire a contractor, depending on your skills and the time you have available. Either way, waterproofing your deck is one of the best investments you can make in your home and one that can help keep your deck looking great for years to come.

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.