Residential Case Study

The Problem to Be Solved:
This residential project involved revitalizing two decks. One in the front and one in the rear of the house. The decks were in good condition but needed a refresh. The rear deck, made of pressure-treated lumber, had an existing solid stain, while the front deck, constructed from mahogany, required a specialty stain for exotic hardwoods. The homeowner wished to maintain the existing color schemes for both decks.

The Solution:
Our team began by soft washing both decks to remove dirt, salt, mold, and any loose stain. We followed with thorough scraping and sanding to eliminate residual flaking stain and prep the surfaces for new applications. The rear deck received two coats of solid stain for optimal coverage and protection. For the front mahogany deck, we applied a single coat of Penofin, a stain specifically formulated for exotic hardwoods.

The Challenges:
A key consideration in this project was the use of Penofin on the mahogany deck. Mahogany, being a dense hardwood, does not absorb stain like other woods. Applying more than one coat would result in puddling and a tacky finish. Understanding the material’s unique characteristics was essential to achieving the desired finish and longevity.

The Final Result:
Despite a few weather delays, the project was completed in five days. Both decks were refreshed and sealed with professional finishes that enhanced the natural beauty of the wood while protecting it from the elements. The client was pleased to see the original colors preserved and the decks looking like new for the spring season. Let me know if you’d like to adapt this for use on a project gallery page or testimonial request!