Why Stain or Seal?

Few things can add value to a home quite like a new wooden deck. Especially in the sunshine state, many dreams of Bar-B-Q’s, rocking chairs, and fire pits have been pinned to a fresh deck. The River City and Florida’s First Coast also know their fair share of docks and boathouses. But as any boat owner can attest, the excitement of a new purchase soon turns into a slurry of never-ending maintenance. Some homeowners admit defeat and let their once-beautiful decks and docks turn into green, slippery, water-logged havens for mosquitoes rather than the stage of family gatherings. However, we at Seal Team Jax are ready and able to restore these decks to their former glory. Working with wood can be a very delicate process, but we know the chemistry and techniques required to bring it back to life.

Sealing and staining are identical except for one thing: the latter is pigmented while the former is not. Both sink into the wood and form a waterproof barrier to beautify and preserve the deck for years to come. This barrier prevents the wood from retaining moisture. Of course, this retained moisture is the cause for a number of other issues involving growth and weathering. As with paver sealing, there is the functional aspect as well as the aesthetic appeal. Some customers really enjoy the natural grain of fresh lumber. For them, we offer clear sealants that offer all the benefits without changing the appearance. Others prefer to accent the natural hues with a lightly or heavily tinted stain. We can work with the homeowner to pick out a color and opacity that fits their preferences. Darker stains are recommended for older decks or other structures that have gone neglected because it covers over many of the imperfections.

Our Process

Algaecide

We start by applying an algaecide to kill any organic growth and break up the green grime. This allows us to use MUCH less pressure when it comes time to clean.

Wood restoration

Unlike many pressure washers, we then follow this up with another cleaning agent to attack the gray weathering of the wood. This is caused by cellulose which has been broken down by UV rays over time, and it requires some very specific chemicals to purge it effectively.

Cleaning

Yes, we pressure wash the deck. No, we do not use max pressure. Because the wood is so soft and easily damaged, we are disciplined in letting the chemicals to the bulk of the work. Our equipment has regulators which can turn down the pressure, and we have a range of low-pressure tips to hit the sweet spot between cleaning and furring.

Neutralizing

Since the algaecide and restoration chemicals are bases, the fourth step is to neutralize the equation with a mild acid. This is not strong enough to discolor the wood; it only counteracts the bases and returns the wood to a bright, fresh color.

Staining or Sealing

Only then is it time to apply stain. Depending on the desired product (marine or residential), we apply one or two soak coats of sealant and work it in with specialized brushes or pads. Of course, we are also meticulous when it comes to coating every surface of the railings and the structural profiles.

Why Us?

Our whole business is built around sealing. This is our full-time job, as it has been for years now. Because our reputation hangs solely on our ability to seal well, we are motivated to apply on the best products and procedures for each of our customers. This is not a side-gig for us, but the core of our company identity. We also strive to set the standard in regards to communication and customization. We are easy to reach, reliable, and unrushed in our dealings with customers. Additionally, we enjoy offering professional recommendations while also working with the customer to realize their ideal results. Every job is treated as unique, and we have a wide range of products to chose from.

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