Deck & Patio Restoration FAQ: DIY Waterproofing & Sealing

Deck & Patio Restoration FAQ

Restore your outdoor living space with Liquid Rubber Deck Coatings. Whether you need the heavy-duty protection of our Polyurethane Coating or the heat-reducing technology of Cool Foot, this guide ensures a professional, long-lasting finish.

Product Selection & Project Planning

  • Which products do I use to waterproof my deck? Use Liquid Rubber Polyurethane Deck Coating for maximum abrasion resistance or Liquid Rubber Cool Foot Deck Coating to reduce surface temperatures by up to 35%. You will also need Multipurpose Primer, Multipurpose Cleaner, and Geo-Textile or Adhesive Caulking.
  • Can I use this on a rooftop deck or terrace over a living space? No. If the deck is over an occupied living area, you require an approved roofing product. A deck coating is not an approved roofing membrane.
  • How much sealant do I need? For Polyurethane, plan for 1 gallon per 50 sq ft (4.6 sq/m) for the final thickness. Example: A 250 sq ft deck requires 5 gallons. Apply in multiple coats until all material is used.
  • Do I need a primer? Yes. Multipurpose Primer is critical for substrates within 6 ft of grade (especially concrete) to mitigate moisture vapor drive.
  • Should I use Seam Tape or Geo-Textile? We recommend Geo-Textile for plywood decks. Seam Tape is too thick and creates a visible edge that can be kicked or tripped on.

Preparation & Surface Compatibility

  • How do I clean my deck? Pressure wash on a low setting. Use Multipurpose Cleaner for heavy soils or lichen, and Concrete Etch for concrete laitance.
  • Can I apply this to Vinyl, Fiberglass, or Composite?
    • Vinyl/Fiberglass: Yes. Scuff the surface, wipe with a rag dampened with acetone, and then use Multipurpose Primer.
    • Composite/Trex: No. These materials do not offer a sufficient bond.
  • Will this coating cause my wood to rot? Our coatings seal the top surface. However, wood can still rot if moisture enters from the uncoated underside. Ensure adequate airflow, drainage, or a vapor barrier beneath the deck.
  • Do I need to fill gaps between deck boards? No. These gaps allow for natural expansion, contraction, and drainage. Do not fill them unless you are re-decking with plywood for a monolithic surface.
  • Will it fill cracks and imperfections? No. Large cracks and knot-holes must be filled with wood filler or Adhesive Caulking before coating; otherwise, they will "telegraph" through.

Expert Application Tips

  • Should I use Textured or Smooth coating? For the best balance of traction and cleanability, apply two coats of **Textured** Polyurethane followed by two coats of **Smooth** Polyurethane to soften the profile.
  • Can I coat over existing paint? Yes, if it is well-bonded. Scuff the old coating and use Multipurpose Primer. Do not apply over oil-based or high-solvent coatings.
  • Can I use a cheaper bitumen coating as a base? No. Bitumen is incompatible and will eventually "bleed" through your colored deck coating.

✅ Project Checklist: Deck Essentials

Item Why You Need It
Deck Coating The primary UV-stable and abrasion-resistant traffic surface.
Multipurpose Primer Essential for blocking vapor drive and ensuring a long-term bond.
Geo-Textile Reinforces joints and penetrations while remaining low-profile.
Multipurpose Cleaner Prepares wood and concrete by removing organic soils and dead fibers.

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