Bringing Tired Outdoor Spaces Back to Life

At a certain point, outdoor spaces no longer look welcoming; rather, they look as though they require a project. The deck has faded to a dull gray; the finish of the pergola is peeling; the timber fence is weathered and worn. All of the structures still stand, but none appear especially pleasing.

Many individuals assume that the only course of action is to rebuild/replace. Remove everything, begin anew, and prepare for another large bill. However, what many homeowners do not know is that, oftentimes, restoration can bring these spaces back to nearly-new status for a fraction of the cost associated with rebuilding.

What Does Restoration Really Mean?

Restoration is not merely a matter of power-washing the structure in hopes of achieving a satisfactory appearance. Rather, restoration represents a comprehensive process aimed at addressing both the cosmetic issues present, and the underlying problems which created them.

For structures composed of timber, this generally involves removing the old, failed coatings. Deep cleaning to remove dirt, mildew, and gray, oxidized wood fiber. Sanding to smooth rough surfaces, and to open up the pores within the timber. Finally, applying the appropriate products based upon the needs of the timber and the desired appearance by the homeowner (oils, stains, or sealants).

Ultimately, the result is timber that appears rich and fresh once again, along with the added benefit of providing suitable protection to the timber against weather, ultraviolet light damage, and moisture. This is not simply surface level enhancement, but actually preservative maintenance that extends the life of the structure.

When Does Restoration Make Sense?

Not every outdoor feature is worthy of restoration. A deck with significant structural rot may require complete replacement. A fence that is severely leaning likely requires rebuilding. However, if the structure is intact and it is simply the surface that is deteriorating, then restoration is almost always the more economical choice.

Among the best candidates for restoration are timber decking. Many decks that appear to be significantly weathered and worn typically retain a structurally-sound base beneath the surface weathering. Professional Deck Restoration Services can determine what portions of the deck are salvageable, and subsequently bring the previously-unusable timber back to life.

Similarly, pergolas, gazebos, and timber screening also respond very well to restoration. As mentioned above, these types of structures are costly to replace, but relatively simple to restore due to their primarily-vertical nature, and the fact that horizontal decking receives the majority of the wear and tear associated with weathering.

In addition, timber fencing can also receive a second lease on life via restoration; however, the amount of labor required increases the cost-benefit ratio when comparing the cost of restoration to simply replacing damaged sections.

Cost Comparison

Restoration truly excels in terms of the cost savings associated with it. A replacement deck can range in cost from approximately $10,000 to $20,000 depending on the size and materials used. On the other hand, restoration of that exact same deck can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000.

While neither is “pocket change,” the cost savings associated with restoration are substantial when comparing the two options. Pergola restoration can range in cost from $800 to $2,000 depending on the size and extent of deterioration. Rebuilding a pergola can range in cost from $3,000 to $8,000 or more. Once again, the numbers clearly favor restoration when the structural integrity of the pergola is sound.

The key to determining whether restoration is feasible prior to making decisions lies in obtaining an honest evaluation of the state of the outdoor feature prior to commencing the restoration process. In some cases, a few boards may need to be replaced prior to beginning the restoration process. In other instances, there may be damage that is not immediately apparent. Professionals will provide an honest assessment regarding whether restoration makes sense, or if the feature(s) in question should be replaced.

What Is Restored and What Isn’t?

Restoration restores the aesthetic qualities and protective qualities of an outdoor feature. Restoration does not alter the basic design or arrangement of the outdoor feature. Therefore, the pergola will remain a pergola in the same location. The deck will continue to have the same dimensions and configuration.

For some homeowners, this is exactly what they desire. They enjoy their current outdoor arrangements and merely wish to see the outdoor feature restored to a healthy and aesthetically appealing appearance. For others, who were perhaps expecting that restoration would also afford an opportunity to redesign the entire outdoor arrangement, this should be understood at the outset.

Color is an area in which restoration provides flexibility. Do you dislike how your deck has weathered to a grayish tone? Restoration can return it to its former warm timber tones. Would you prefer something darker, or with a redder tone? Various stains can greatly affect the overall appearance of the deck while preserving the natural grain of the timber.

Timing and Restoration

Restoration is most successful when the damage to the timber is not severe. If the timber is weathered, but not yet rotted, the restoration process is relatively easy. If the damage is structural, and/or there is significant decay/rot, restoration cannot commence until the necessary repairs are made.

Typically, outdoor features constructed of timber will benefit from restoration every 3-5 years. However, this timeline will vary depending on factors such as climate, sun exposure, and the amount of weather the feature experiences. Features that are covered tend to require restoration less frequently. Areas that experience extreme amounts of direct sunlight and weather require restoration more frequently.

Visual indications of when restoration is required include changes in the color of the timber (from the original color to gray), the texture of the surface (from smooth to rough), and the ability of the water to bead and repel off of the surface (as opposed to soaking into the surface).

Do-it-Yourself (DIY) vs. Professional Results

Some homeowners choose to perform their own restoration. The necessary products are readily available; the process is not overly complex; and doing it yourself can save you money if you have the time and desire.

However, the results achieved by a professional are clearly superior. Whether it is the evenness of application, the thoroughness of preparation, or the appropriateness of the product used for the specific situation, these elements contribute to a noticeable difference in the final appearance of the restored outdoor feature. Additionally, the type of equipment needed to accomplish large-scale restoration tasks (such as sanding a large deck) is far greater than the equipment commonly found in the average homeowner’s garage (e.g., orbital sander). Furthermore, accessing the corners, edges, and rails of a deck can be far more labor-intensive than many homeowners anticipate.

As such, while smaller restoration projects (i.e., pergolas, fence sections) can be accomplished successfully by a homeowner using a DIY approach, larger scale restoration tasks (i.e., large decks, multiple features) are typically best handled by a professional.

Reaping the Benefits of Your Outdoor Investment

Ultimately, the primary purpose of having a deck, pergola, or nice fencing is to utilize and enjoy the outdoor space. When the outdoor feature(s) look tired and uninviting, people use these spaces less frequently. Children play in different areas. Homeowners entertain indoors instead of outdoors. Ultimately, the outdoor investment made by the homeowner is not contributing to enhancing quality of life.

Restoring these outdoor features enables homeowners to place the feature(s) back into regular usage. Suddenly, the deck is a place that homeowners want to spend time again. The pergola area is now an actual outdoor room instead of a pass-through area.

Property values are also impacted positively by maintaining outdoor features. Attractive outdoor features enhance the desirability of homes for potential buyers. Conversely, unattractive outdoor features either go unnoticed by potential buyers, or are negotiated as part of the price reduction of the home.

Putting It into Action

With the exception of unusually large projects, most restoration work is completed in a short period of time – generally 3-7 working days – depending on the scope of the project, and the weather conditions experienced during the restoration process. Clearing the space is essential, therefore plan accordingly if you have furniture or plants that need to be removed from the space.