Best deck staining pros near Wrightsville Beach, NC

Limewash and whitewash are two techniques used to give brick a light, matte finish, but they differ in composition, application, and permanence. The best choice depends on your aesthetic goals and the specific surface.

Composition

• Limewash: A natural and environmentally friendly option made from limestone, water, and sometimes pigments. It is breathable and soaks into porous surfaces like brick.

• Whitewash: Traditionally made from lime, water, chalk, and binders, but a similar look can be achieved with watered-down white paint. It is paint-based and sits on top of the surface.

Appearance and Finish

• Limewash: Provides a natural, textured appearance that allows the brick's character to show through. It offers a more traditional finish.

• Whitewash: Creates a softer, more opaque finish, often used for a rustic or shabby-chic style.

Application and Permanence

• Limewash: Is semi-permanent and can be removed, making it a good choice if you might want to change the look in the future. It requires more skill to apply and cannot be used on previously painted brick.

• Whitewash: Is a more permanent solution. It is more forgiving to apply and can be used on painted brick. However, because it sits on the surface, it can trap moisture.

Ultimately, if you want a breathable, natural, and reversible finish for unpainted brick, limewash is a great option. If you need a more permanent, opaque coating that can be applied over painted surfaces, whitewash is the better choice. Whitewashing may also be more economical, costing approximately $1.40 to $4.20 per square foot.

Hangers are one way of attaching stair stringers to a deck. These metal hangers are usually adjustable, allowing you to find the ideal angle for a secure installation. They’re the best choice for installing longer staircases, such as one on a two-story deck, to reduce the load on the deck frame while keeping the stairs stable.

Ideally, it's best to stain your dock once per year. Applying stain doesn't just keep it looking nice and new; it also helps extend the dock’s lifespan. Since you want to ensure water levels are at their lowest, it's best to have this project done by a professional dock repair service in the cooler autumn or early winter months. 

Two coats of stain are ideal for the best protection and aesthetic appeal. However, if your decking is made of particularly dense hardwood, you may only need one coat. If you want an intense color, two coats are ideal.