Painting & Staining Archives | GNH Lumber Co. 1

DIY: Staining Versus Painting Your Deck

Posted on April 11, 2024April 11, 2024

It’s the age-old question for deck care: staining versus painting? So, which is better for your deck, staining or painting? Simply put: it’s a matter of personal preference.

Whether you stain, paint, or simply just seal your deck, it is extremely important that you protect your deck with regular maintenance!

Is it Time to Paint or Stain? Try the Sprinkle Test

One of the easiest ways you can check to see if your deck needs a refresh is the sprinkle test! Simply sprinkle some water on the surface of your wood deck. If it beads up, wait a few days and try again to see if you get the same results. However, if the water sits and then absorbs into the wood, you’ll know it’s time to stain, paint, or seal it again.

Deck Stain Basics

Stains can make wood look amazing. They do a great job of highlighting the beauty of the natural wood grain. Many people prefer stain simply because it has a more natural look.

If you are using stain, you’ll have to do maintenance on your decking from periodically. The frequency of maintenance will depend on things where like you live, how much you use your deck, what type of weather you have, the color of the stain, quality of the stain, and the prep work that went into staining the deck. Therefore, it pays to do it right the first time.

Since there are both solid and semi-transparent stains, wear and tear will affect them differently. On average, a deck should be re-stained every few years in most cases to protect and preserve the wood.

What are Water and Oil Stains?

There are different kinds of stains to consider. You may see water-based stains, which can adhere to water or oil-based coatings already present on the deck surface, depending on the area. These stains are easily cleaned up with water as well.

However, oil-based stains will ONLY adhere to wood previously stained with an oil-based product. So, in this case you cannot layer paint or water-based stain over it without sanding off the old stain first. Oil-based stain can be cleaned up with paint thinner.

Deck Paint Basics

Paint is another common protective coating. If you choose to use paint, you won’t see the discoloration of the wood or any imperfections until the paint itself is removed. Although the required maintenance for a painted deck may be less, just like stain, it will depend on the location, the weather, and how much use your deck gets.

Also, when you select paint, you need to look for exterior deck/patio paint, which is formulated for outdoor weather and foot traffic. Don’t use the leftover paint you used to paint your bathroom!

Just know that in some areas of the country, or if the surface is not properly prepared and sealed, paint can flake. If that happens, you may find painting takes a lot of work to maintain. If you are wondering if this will be a problem, look at other exterior places that are painted and note their condition.

Understanding Sealers

Many don’t know you can get a clear sealant for your deck if you love the unique look of the wood. No matter what you choose to do, it’s always a good idea to make sure you reseal your deck once a year.

Whatever you decide, the team at GNH is here to help with all your painting and staining needs.

How to Transform Your Home for the Holidays

Posted on October 23, 2023October 24, 2023

The holiday season is upon us again! As the days grow shorter and the occasional snowflake swirls through the air, you may be inspired to create a magical environment for family gatherings this year.

Perhaps you want to create a warm and cozy bedroom, a festive winter wonderland in your living room, or a unique color combination for your dining room. Whatever the mood you’re trying to set, a touch of paint can help you transform your home in dramatic fashion. Here are some ideas to give you inspiration:

Get your painting project started!

1. Warm & Cozy

Adding the right hue can instantly create a warm and cozy feel for the holidays. (Clockwise from top left, Cinnamon Slate; Hot Chocolate; Jack Pine; Spiced Apple Cider; all colors by Benjamin Moore)

And you don’t have to paint the whole wall to create a big impact. “Pops of color can be great ways to add interest to a room in a subtle way,” says Benjamin Moore’s Director of Color and Development, Andrea Magno. “The inside of a bookcase, behind glass cabinets, an accent piece of furniture, or even the inside of a closet or a door—the key is to bring in a pop of color in a location that makes sense with the space.”

2. Winter Wonderland

Another great way to add a festive touch to your home is by transforming a room into a winter wonderland. A fresh coat of white or off-white paint with silvery-gray or blue trim is an excellent starting point. You can also paint your fireplace in stunning white to help set off your holiday decorations. Plus a big bonus is a white fireplace works well all year-round.

3. Colorful Combinations

Looking for a unique holiday color combination? Here’s a great tip from HGTV.com: “Take a color cue from holiday gift bags. Incorporating several colors into a space is often a stumbling block for many do-it-yourselfers. By simply perusing the gift bag aisle, you’ll find exciting and unusual combinations that are often easily transferable to your space.”

How to Choose a Paint Finish

Posted on September 20, 2022October 12, 2022

Did you know that picking the right paint for your interior painting project involves more than just color selection –

You also need to choose the right paint finish. Didn’t even think about the finish, did you? That’s ok! A lot of people underestimate the role paint finish plays in the appearance of your newly-painted room.

Choosing the right finish for your interior project will affect the look, durability, and ambiance of the room. Understanding the basic differences between paint finishes will help guide your selection process.

The most common interior paint finishes are: flat, matte, eggshell, satin, and semi-gloss. Let’s take a closer look at these 5 options:

Flat

Flat finish is only available in latex paint. It’s clean, opaque qualities make it a great choice for walls and ceilings. It is also the least shiny finish available. Unfortunately, it doesn’t clean well. So don’t use it for kitchens, bathrooms, or children’s bedrooms. The only way to get rid of drawings and fingerprints on a flat-finish wall is to paint over them!

Matte

Matte finishes are also low-shine. It’s perfect for busy areas such as hallways, family rooms, and kids’ rooms. It’s easy to apply, washable, and hides existing wall colors well.

Eggshell

Eggshell finishes are used for decorative finishes because it provides a low shine. It cleans up better than a flat finish would, but probably not as well as you would want in a kitchen or bathroom.

Satin

The most popular paint finish is the satin finish. It has more sheen than eggshell, and cleans better too! This finish is a good choice for woodwork, walls, doors, and hallways. It’s also great for bedrooms and dining rooms. While this finish is washable, it’s not “scrubbable,” so this is another one to skip if you’re painting a playroom.

Semi-Gloss

A semi-gloss finish will give your room a subtle shine. It’s scrubbable without being too shiny. This makes it perfect for moldings, doors, windows – and little Picasso’s bedroom, too. However, because Semi-gloss finishes reflect light, imperfections in your walls are more noticeable. We recommend that you prep your walls and make them super smooth before applying paint.

Not sure which finish best matches your project? Check out this product comparison guide from Benjamin Moore.

Choosing the right paint finish is as important as picking a color. Not only does it impact the appearance of your room, it has a big effect on how well you will be able to clean and maintain your walls!

Now that you know which finishes to use, you are ready to pick out paint for your next project. Still not sure or need more help? Ask a GNH expert in our Greenville or Windham locations. They can help you make the best choice for your home improvement project.

How to Paint the Exterior of your Home

Posted on September 12, 2022May 23, 2023

Early autumn is a great time of year to tackle your home exterior painting project. The temperature is warm during the day and the humidity is low. This means quicker drying times. If you’re not sure how to paint the exterior of your home, you will want to:

plan ahead
buy enough paint in the same color
tackle the job one section at a time

With a little planning, your home exterior painting project will be fun and satisfying!

Step 1: Envision the Final Product

Select a color palette for your home’s exterior walls, trim, shutters, and doors. There are some tried and true color combinations that are beautiful, taking the guesswork out of choosing colors.

Use Benjamin Moore’s Personal Color Viewer tool. It will help you visualize the end result. Plus it will list compatible paint colors by name and product number for easy reference. Tip: Basic whites, light blues, light beiges, and yellows work best for resale curb appeal.

Step 2: Prepare the Exterior Surfaces

A clean and debris-free exterior is best for holding paint. Before you apply paint, spend a day preparing your home’s exterior. The first step is sanding or scraping old and peeling paint. Then, check for gaps between the siding and windows. Caulk where needed, or replace lengths of siding or shingles. Finally, use a power sprayer to thoroughly wash your home’s exterior. Don’t forget to allow a couple of days to dry completely before applying paint.

Step 3: Planning & Prep

Watch your weather forecast. Then choose a stretch of warm, dry days to start painting. Plan on having a couple of days (a weekend) to work.

Make sure you buy more than enough paint to cover your home’s exterior. It’s helpful to get a little bit more than you think you will need for touch-ups.

Before you paint, place plastic tarps or drop cloths over walkways, shrubs, and grasses. This helps protect against spilled paint. Also, move or cover up any outdoor furniture, hoses, or grills, that are close to the house.

Step 4: Use Paint that includes Primer

Look for a paint that has combined primer and paint into one product. This will cut down on the number of coats you will have to apply.

Step 5: Start at the Top and Paint Down

Start at the top and paint down to control streaks and drips. This method will allow you to feather out mishaps in the direction you are working.

How to Choose and Apply Deck Stain

Posted on August 11, 2022August 11, 2022

Why Should I Stain My Wooden Deck?

Your outdoor space is where you and your family share meals and memories. You’ll want it to be welcoming all year round. So, if your wooden deck is fading or peeling, a new coat of stain goes a long way to restoring it to beautiful condition!

Gather Your Gear

Before you can begin the staining process, you are going to want to have all the right tools and gear on hand! The quality of your tools means professional-level results. Before you start prepping your deck for staining, we recommend gathering the following equipment:

Gloves
Safety glasses
Broom
Garden hose
Drop cloth
Sanding sponge
Stiff synthetic-bristle brush (make sure it’s specific to oil, water-based formulations)
Pump sprayer (optional)
Roller covers
Extension pole
4″ brushes (make sure they’re specific to oil, water-based formulations)

How to Choose the Right Deck Stain

From clear to solid colors, there are so many choices in opacity and color to choose from. Following these simple tips on choosing the right deck stain for your wood deck will help you get your project started. Staining your deck is one of the easiest ways to update the exterior of your home and make it the perfect space for years to come.

Prepping Your Deck For Staining

Before you apply the stain to your deck there is some prep work that needs to be done. Follow these steps to prepare for applying stains. Make sure the surface is clean (no dust, dirt, wood fibers or grease), dry and free from mildew. If a surface is not cleaned and prepared properly, the stain may not adhere well.

Sweep the deck to remove debris.
Apply cleaner using a roller or pump sprayer (remember to wear protective equipment to avoid contact with skin and eyes).
Allow the cleaner to set for 15 minutes. Mist your work area with a garden hose to keep it wet while the cleaner soaks into the wood.
After 15 minutes, work the cleaner into the surface using a stiff synthetic-bristle brush. Scrub to remove residue thoroughly.
Completely rinse the cleaner from the wood with a garden hose.
Once the surface is clean, dull, and dry, you may apply stain or coating,

How to Apply Deck Stain

Work with the wood grain and apply an even coat of stain using a 4-inch brush. You may also use a roller to first apply the stain, and then work into the wood with your brush. Remember to always read the products’ details and instructions. There may be additional steps that are recommended.

For the best results, you will want to avoid staining midday or in direct sunlight. And avoid using your deck for 24 – 48 hours so it can dry thoroughly.

How to Create an Accent Wall with Stripes

Posted on August 10, 2022August 17, 2022

Want to give your living room or hallway a fresh and modern look? Maybe you want your kid’s bedroom to look as fun, vibrant and full of personality as they are. It’s easy to create a dramatic effect by painting a bold accent wall! And the best part about this DIY project is that it’s fun and inexpensive!

Painting the interior rooms of your home can have tremendous impact, and it’s a great autumn project with a modest price tag.

Strive for a balance of linear elements and colors, and don’t be afraid to ask the experts at GNH Lumber for guidance and tips along the way. Get your painting project started!

Here’s how to create a bold accent wall with stripes!

What You’ll Need to Pick Up at GNH:

FrogTape^® Painter’s Tape
Benjamin Moore Interior Paint
Wall Primer
2-in. Paint Brush
9-in. Roller
Drop Cloth
Two Paint Trays
220-Grit Sandpaper
Damp Sponge

Step 1:

Protect floors with a drop cloth, fill any nail holes and sand the wall. Wipe away dust with a clean, damp sponge.

Step 2:

Apply FrogTape^® Painter’s Tape just beyond the corner of the adjacent wall to ensure a crisp, clean line.

Step 3

Prime wall if changing from a dark to a light paint color.

Step 4

Paint wall using a ‘W’ shape with a roller until the whole wall is covered evenly.

Step 5

Remove the painter’s tape when the paint is still wet.

Step 6

When the accent wall is dry, start decorating.

How to Paint Stripes on a Wall

Want to make a bold, unique statement? Stripes that go up-and-down make a room with low-ceilings look taller, where horizontal stripes give a smaller room a more spacious feel. And remember, the thinner the strips, the busier the pattern, too.

Here are a few tips to paint level, even stripes on your walls.

Step 1

Paint your base color across the entire wall using the lighter and flatter shade of the two colors you picked. Let it dry for at least 24 hours.

Step 2

Figure out your stripe spacing. Choose a stripe width that can be evenly divided into the wall’s width or height. Generally, 4-12 in. is a good width. For vertical stripes, measure the width of the wall and for horizontal stripes, measure the height of the wall.

Quick Tip: Paint an odd number of stripes on your wall. This makes sure you’ll get a solid strip at the edges of the wall or ceiling.

Step 3

Create your outline. If using a level and pencil, mark your stripe widths across the wall. With your level, draw a light line continuously across, making sure the level is straight.

Step 4

Mark an “X” where you want your solid stripes to be.

Quick Tip: Create a guide the exact width of your stripes and use it to make your marks

Step 5

Apply the right FrogTape® product for your surface

Quick Tip: Place your tape on the outside of your pencil line so the paint will cover up any markings.

Step 6

Burnish or seal the edges of the tape. Run a plastic toll along the tape’s edge so paint can’t bleed through.

Step 7

Pull the tape off when the paint is still wet at a slow, 45-degree angle backward toward the wall. Don’t forget to control the end of the free tape so it doesn’t drag along the freshly painted stripes.

Painting stripes takes time and patience. Just follow these steps to prepare the space and you’ll be sure to make your stripes look crisp and straight.

Sources: https://www.frogtape.com/inspiration/tutorials/projects/update-your-room-with-an-accent-wall; https://www.frogtape.com/inspiration/tutorials/projects/how-to-paint-stripes-on-a-wall

5 Creative Ways to Paint Your Bedroom

Posted on August 9, 2022August 17, 2022

One of the easiest ways to transform the look and feel of your bedroom is with a fresh coat of paint! Creating signature style in your master bedroom starts with you. What colors, textures and elements make you feel most relaxed and cozy?

Don’t forget that inspiration can come from anywhere! Think about fabric, wood, stone, or artwork. Whatever gives you restful comfort at the end of the day and helps you wake up energized in the morning is all that is required.

Finding sanctuary at the end of the day is something we all crave. Creating a personal retreat in your bedroom is easier than you think! Strive for a balance of textures and colors, and don’t be afraid to ask the experts at GNH Lumber for guidance and tips along the way.

Get your painting project started!

Here are 5 creative ways to paint your bedroom and inspire a new color pallet!

1) Modern:

Creative Ways to Paint Your Bedroom - Modern

Photo Source: Houzz, https://www.houzz.com/photo/47521799-dominion-contemporary-bedroom-moscow

Contemporary design is less ornate but bold in color and design.

Create some drama with dark tones, natural elements and cream accents. This earthy sanctuary incorporates natural oak floors and a wood accent wall behind the bed. The color pallet is derived from the tones found in the wood. Smokey neutral hues provide the foundation for the subtle drama of dark and light tones in the fabric and the ceiling.

If you have a tray ceiling layer, use light, medium and dark tones to add interest and depth to the architecture. This color pallet uses Benjamin Moore Barren Plain in the center. Keep the ceiling and the tray edges white and tape off a shadow line with Scotch Blue painter’s tape to create a darker border about 1.5-2” wide in Wildwood Crest. This will create that dark inner edge that adds depth to the ceiling tray.

Benjamin Moore Colors used in fabrics, furnishings and walls:

Walls: Barren Plain 2111-60; Bedding, Drapery: Mink 2112-10; Furniture: Black 2132-10; Chair/Shadow Line: Wildwood Crest 1538.

2) Vivid

Creative Ways to Paint Your Bedroom - Vivid

Photo Source: https://www.houzz.com/photo/238678-casa-paralea-eclectic-bedroom-miami

Bold color stories create a vibrant environment that makes even the darkest winter day feel like springtime!

This bedroom achieves its sunny, tropical vibe by using a vibrant green fabric to create the color story. Pulling greens and yellows from the inspiration fabric dictates a lively color palette. Try painting three yellow or pale yellow-green accent walls to add vibrancy. Get clean painting lines by taping off the corners and edges with Scotch Blue painter’s tape.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you could do a Strié finish using the contrasting color over the three yellow walls, or just the bed wall. Strié is a popular form of faux painting using glaze and paint brushes to create a soft natural striped texture. Here’s how to do it:

Tape off the corners, ceiling line and the baseboards with Scotch Blue painter’s tape.
Add some glaze at a 2:1 ratio to the paint and apply it in 2’ wide sections.
Drag a wall paper brush or a long bristle Strié brush through it from ceiling to floor to create subtle stripes.

Practice this technique first, you may need to go over it multiple times to achieve the effect you are after. It works best done over eggshell paint to extend the working time.

You may need to use a smaller soft brush at the ceiling and baseboard to smooth it out. And don’t limit yourself to just painting the walls: a brightly-painted side table pulls this scheme together nicely!

Benjamin Moore Colors used in fabrics, furnishings and walls:

Walls: Hibiscus 2027-50, Flower Power 398; Table: Orange Nectar 2013-20.

3) Textured:

5-Creative-Ways-to-Paint-Your-Bedroom-TEXTURE

Photo Source: https://www.houzz.com/photo/90957482-woodside-eclectic-bedroom-london

Paint is a medium that can take on many forms.

The use of unique materials can be transformed by paint. It redefined the tin or textured wallpaper panels on this wall.

This look was achieved by painting these wall panels alternately with a base coat of Summer Harvest and Blue Heron, then employing additional colors to help accent and contrast the textures. The other neutral walls allow the bed wall to make a huge statement.

Don’t forget to be creative! Instead of covering the entire wall, you can frame out an oversized headboard area to fit 9 of these tiles for a scaled down effect. Frame the area out with wide mitre corner boards painted Hearthstone Brown.

Benjamin Moore Colors used in fabrics, furnishings and walls:

Ceiling & Walls: Seapearl 961; Tin/Textured Tiles: Gingersnaps 1063, Hearthstone Brown 2109-20, Summer Harvest 2016, Blue Heron 832.

4) Deep

5-Creative-Ways-to-Paint-Your-Bedroom-DEEP

Photo Source: https://www.houzz.com/photo/90957482-woodside-eclectic-bedroom-london

Dark tones are very tranquil and relaxing in a bedroom.

Darker colors absorb light, creating a womb effect to induce deep relaxation. Creating contrast with soft neutrals makes this space feel comfortable and welcoming.

Painting the wall behind the bed a slightly lighter shade of Bella Blue will provide subtle contrast to the remaining darker walls defined by Salamander. The trim is a shade of gray with the ceiling a lighter tone of gray. To keep the lines clean, tape off the trim with Scotch Blue painter’s tape.

This room has a very sophisticated use of color with simple clean lines, which gives the moldings and artwork center stage.

Benjamin Moore Colors used in fabrics, furnishings and walls:

Bed Wall: Bella Blue 720; Rest of Walls: Salamander 2050-10; Trim: Timber Wolf 1600; Ceiling: Heaven 2118-70.

4) Graphic

5-Creative-Ways-to-Paint-Your-Bedroom-GRAPHIC

Photo Source: https://www.houzz.com/photo/841470-masterpiece-design-group-contemporary-bedroom-orlando

Creating architecture with color and simple moldings gives this room a modern feel.

The walls are painted a Natural Linen tone. Tape off the simple rectangles with Scotch Blue painter’s tape to approximately 6” wide, or use mitered wood painted Alabaster. Paint the inside color (above the lamps) with the darker shade of Aged Bronze to provide some contrast and interest against the dark lamp shades. Black is a strong modern component in the fabric design, lamps, accent tables and upholstery.

Providing a neutral backdrop gives the design elements a chance to be seen. It has been said that every room should have black to ground the design. That is very true of this room.

Benjamin Moore Colors used in fabrics, furnishings and walls:

Walls: Natural Linen 966; Wall Molding/Blocks: Alabaster 876; Inside of Wall Molding/Blocks Above Lamps: Aged Bronze 231; Side Table: Black 2132-10.

What to Know When Choosing Paint Colors for Your Kitchen

Posted on August 7, 2022February 15, 2024

For a quick and easy way to update the look of your kitchen, there’s no better solution than a coat of fresh paint on the walls.

Depending on your choice of color, new paint colors can make the small space feel larger, make a dramatic statement or create warmth and coziness.

When it comes to kitchens, white, gray, blue, red, yellow, and green are at the top of our list for excellent paint color choices. Yellow is homey and cheerful while red is vibrant and intense—both are believed to stimulate the appetite. Yellow, however, will make a tiny kitchen feel larger, while red will make a large space feel more intimate. Blue, white, green and gray are all calming colors that can help you create a bright and inviting space.

Get your painting project started!

Gray is a neutral that’s been taking center stage lately in many homes. It often gets categorized as being too cold, but with the right shade, it can work wonders in a kitchen. Best of all, it pairs beautifully with a wide array of other colors and is the perfect base to build upon in a kitchen. It also works well as a countertop or cabinet color.

Cabinets

Before you select a color, think about how it will work with your cabinets. White cabinets will look great with almost any color, but wood tones will harmonize differently with each paint color. An easy way to see if your colors will complement each other is to paint one section of wall beside a cabinet before committing to the whole room.

If you plan on getting new cabinets, pick your cabinet color first and then the kitchen paint colors second, since the cabinets will dictate the design of the room. Neutral walls work better with very colorful cabinets. So, if you want to go crazy with your kitchen paint colors, try opting for white cabinets instead.

Countertops

Countertops are also important to consider when selecting paint colors. If you have a neutral-colored countertop or plan to install one, you’ll have more flexibility with the paint colors you can use. But if you plan to use a countertop that has a lot of colorful detail in it, you might want to keep your walls more neutral so the two don’t clash.

Appliances

Even the appliances you have in your kitchen can play a role in picking a paint color. By considering your cabinets, countertops and appliances when creating a color scheme, you’re more likely to select a color that will work for the entire room.

Resale Value

The resale value of your home is another important consideration when selecting paint colors for your kitchen. While you might be drawn to a very bold shade, future buyers might not find it so appealing. If you plan on selling your home someday, it’s smarter to opt for a toned-down color scheme.

If you have questions about your kitchen painting project, stop in to your local GNH Lumber for tips, guidance and expert advice!

Sources: “Best Colors to Paint a Kitchen” and “What Colors to Paint a Kitchen,” HGTV.com

How to Clean & Repair Your Deck

Posted on June 17, 2022August 8, 2022

Did you know that with regular maintenance, a deck will easily last for twice as long as one that isn’t maintained? It’s true, and what’s more, most decks can be rejuvenated for a lot less than the cost of replacement.

Here are some techniques you can use to give an old deck a new lease on life or to help maintain the look of a new one!

1) Make Thorough Repairs

Begin by inspecting the entire deck. Pay special attention to any part of the deck that is in direct contact with the ground, such as the posts, stair stringers, or joists that are at ground level. We recommend using a screwdriver to check for structural damage.

Tip: If you can sink the tip of a screwdriver into a post or joist, it means you’ve got rot and it’s time to consider renovation.

Also, inspect the connection of your deck to your house. Screws and bolts can loosen and rust, and without the proper use of spacers and flashing, moisture can cause your band joist to rot.

Be sure to tighten the fasteners that attach the deck to the house, while looking for any missing, bent, or rusted flashing. Then, carefully inspect inside and out for any telltale black stains that suggest moisture is working its way into your home.

Next, look for any cosmetic damage. For example, tap down any popped nails or consider replacing them with screws. We advise using galvanized ring-shanked nails to repair damaged boards and ensure longevity.

Tip: If you need to rip replacement decking to match existing boards, use a table saw. Ease the sawn edge using a router fitted with a ⅜-inch roundover bit.

Finish by carefully inspecting your railings and decking for loose wood. This avoids the possibility of splinters or further cosmetic damage to your deck.

2) Clean the Surface

Assuming your deck has been maintained regularly, it can be revived with a simple deck cleaner. Some products are mixed in a bucket and applied to the deck directly. Others come in containers with applicators that you hook up to a garden hose. Once on the deck, most still require a stiff-bristle brush and a lot of elbow grease to work the mixture into the wood.

Here’s a deck cleaner you can make yourself and that’s great for mildew and dirt:

1 qt. sodium hypochlorite solution (household bleach)
⅓ cup powdered laundry detergent
3 qts. warm water
In a 5-gal. plastic bucket, add the bleach and detergent to the water, then brush the cleaner onto the deck. Rinse thoroughly before applying a finish.

For tackling tougher stains, use a pressure washer. which is the best way to remove sun-damaged wood fibers and tackle scrub-resistant stains. Graf recommends using a fan-type nozzle instead of a pinpoint nozzle that can dig into the wood.

Finish by going over your deck with a stiff-bristle brush to work the cleaner into the wood fibers, and then rinse. The boards should be kept damp in order for the cleaning solution to work effectively. Allow the deck to dry thoroughly before moving on to the next step.

3) Sanding Your Deck

When the deck is dry (36-48 hours after washing, depending upon humidity and weather conditions), it’s time to sand the surface. You can use a pole sander with 80-grit sandpaper to remove all the loose wood fibers that were lifted by the pressure washing. Or, try using a DeWalt 5-inch variable speed random orbit sander with 80-grit sandpaper to really smooth out the surface.

When you’re finished sanding the entire deck, use a leaf blower or the reverse outlet of a wet vac to remove dust from the surface and between any cracks.

4) Staining and Preserving Your Deck

Once your repairs have been made and the deck is sparkling clean, it’s time to apply a protective finish. Clear finishes and transparent stains are fine for new wood, but for older decks, we recommend using a semitransparent stain.

Start by spraying on a light coat of stain and using a brush to remove puddles or splotches. Start at an inside corner and work out, applying the stain parallel to the deck boards.

Tip: To avoid staining nearby brick, use a small piece of cardboard as a spray shield.

Subsequent coats should be applied while the first coat is still wet or they will not be absorbed into the wood. The stain won’t peel, but it can wear away, especially in high-traffic areas. It’s best to apply a fresh coat every other year. A clear water repellent can also be applied between staining for extra protection.

For more help getting your deck looking its best, get in touch with the GNH team!

Calming Paint Colors from Benjamin Moore

Posted on November 21, 2020March 21, 2022

Are you looking to cover your walls with calming paint colors? Benjamin Moore has color choices that will make you feel even more at home.

“Soft power, silence, pause.” These are some of the words that Benjamin Moore uses to describe the blend of blue-green and gray that is Aegean Teal 2136-40. This intriguing mid-tone creates natural harmony and looks just as amazing in the kitchen as it does in the bedroom, den or home office.

Want calming paint colors? The entire Ben Moore “Color Trends Collection” is designed to nourish the spirit with the comforting, sun-baked hues. It also helps us celebrate the simple pleasures in life—like “the faded rumple of linen sheets in the morning and perfectly ripened fruits on the windowsill. The twelve hues in the palette radiate warmth and well-being. These are colors that make your home feel even more like home. Settle in.”

Get your painting project started!

So, go on… Take a moment to reflect and reset. Intriguing, balanced, and deeply soothing, the Benjamin Moore Color, Aegean Teal 2136-40, creates natural harmony. Check out the full video introduction to this calming blue-green and gray combination:

This isn’t your ordinary mid-tone teal. The slight hint of bluish-green evokes calm and harmony, while making yellows, whites and beige tones POP!

Reclaim Your Ease

Pair Aegean Teal 2136-40 with Muslin OC-12 to beautiful effect, like in the cozy bedroom above. Muslin OC-12 is part of the Off-White Color collection. Inherently sophisticated and endlessly versatile, the Off-White collection offers subtle nuances of whites that suit tranquil, serene environments as well as creates color-enhancing accents for dynamic spaces.

Tip: Less is more when working with this subtle teal. Surround Aegean Teal with whites and off-whites to allow its soft colors to really sing.

Work in Harmony

Create a home office that truly inspires productivity! These soft Aegean Teal 2136-40 cabinets create a sense of balance to help you work better and feel less distracted. It pairs well light gray walls like Benjamin Moore’s Foggy Morning, or Gray Cashmere.

Tip: Wicker baskets, metallic hardware and lighting fixtures complete this cozy and homey look.

Get Your Interior Painting Project Done!

Painting the rooms of your home can have tremendous impact, and it’s a great family project with a modest price tag. Strive for a balance of linear elements and colors, and don’t be afraid to ask the experts at GNH Lumber for guidance and tips along the way. Get your painting project started!

Sources: https://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/color-overview/color-palettes/color-of-the-year-2021