Upkeep for the decks – part 1

(Lower deck part 2)

 We had the upper deck replaced in July, 2011, shortly after we moved here (Sept., 2010). The railing was rotten, and gave way when I leaned on it. It was comical, actually. 

 I had to put in a new board in in the lower deck, Summer 2016, but the writing was on the wall. Poor Aster kept getting splinters! The lower deck was replaced in 2018. 

The middle deck is a mess. I've found someone who will be replacing that deck!

The lower deck in the sunset:

The upper deck. It was last stained in 2020. 

I'm still working on staining the decks. I cannot use the power washer for now. We are so low on water. I've decided to try sanding off the mold. We'll see what happens. Thing is, after I stain, the temperature has to be above 10 ℃ for 48 hours. I am under a time crunch for the end of the season.

Beginning after a shortened workout (I knew what was ahead!), off I went on Friday. 

First day, Thursday, Aug. 21, after a 15-minute workout. 

I had to quit by 2:30 p.m., my back gave out! I only broke two three finger nails. I took breaks. After that, I took myself off for a swim. It was relatively quiet, with boys throwing rocks, and a few kids swimming.

Finishing sanding Friday, I stained it Saturday, after the kids left for home. 

Of course it looks like rain today, Sunday. 😖 

I think I'll need another coat, the wood is so dry. And I have to stain the lower deck. 

The rain came Sunday morning, it was dry enough not to ruin my stain.