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Current Blogs by Guy Gagnon
How Often Should I Re-Coat My Wood Deck?
-By Guy Gagnon
Wood decks are one of the most demanding exterior surfaces to maintain. They face constant exposure to sunlight, standing water, snow, leaves, foot traffic, furniture, and everyday wear. As a result, every wood deck needs regular re-coating—typically every 1–4 years, depending on the product used.
Choosing the Right Deck Coating
Transparent Oils & Clear Finishes (1–3 years)
Best for clean, unpainted wood, these coatings are the best to enhance the natural beauty of the timber without hiding the grain. They won't peel because they contain few solids, but they wear the fastest and require more frequent maintenance.
Semi-Transparent Stains (2–4 years)
A popular choice that adds color while still allowing some wood grain to show through. These stains won't peel when applied correctly and help even out weathered or discolored wood..
Solid Color Stains (3–4 years)
These completely cover the wood for a more uniform appearance and can be applied over previously stained decks. They generally last longer but may eventually flake or peel as they age.
Deck Paint
Although paint contains the highest level of solids, it is rarely recommended for older decks. Cracks, knots, and moisture can cause the paint to peel, making long-term maintenance more difficult.
Don't Forget the Railing System!
The good news is that wooden deck railing systems usually last almost twice as long as the deck surface before they need recoating.
Need advice on maintaining your deck?
Call us at 860-793-2200.
In Photo: Transparent Oil on Red Mahogany Decking
How To Choose An Interior Paint Color, Why So hard?
-By Guy Gagnon
Simply changing the color of wall paint is the single most cost-effective way to modify a room’s appearance and add style, personality, and warmth to any home.
But why is it so hard to pick colors for our homes and what are some tips from designers and decorators that will help the average homeowner.
Problem
To many to choose from, confusing…
Solution
Don’t pick the color first, instead start with some inspiration. A piece of art or a favorite accent pillow or throw or piece of furniture as a starting point. Next, look at color samples against these inspire pieces.It may seem silly to paint a room based on the colour of a pillow case, but this approach makes sense. The colour of your furnishings will guide you in the selection of your interior pai nt colour.
Problem
Afraid to make a mistake. Anxiety picking color is stressful.
Solution
Test before committing! Most paint manufacturers can provide larger samples or even a pint of any perspective color to apply on a large sample board. Avoid painting samples on the wall because you’ll only be seeing samples against a color that won't be there anymore. Instead, hold samples only against items that will remain in the space. Your cabinets, flooring, furniture etc.
Problem
I think I need professional help but don’t have the budget for this.
Solution
Some paint stores and furniture stores (if you're buying something there) offer free design services for simple layouts. Also some higher end painting contractors can provide helpful suggestions.
Color Conclusion
For sure, color affects the way we feel about being in a space. A large percentage of paint sold is purchased to replace a color that someone didn't like or couldn’t live with. Why not either be willing to experiment and learn how to pick colors or get some help from professionals. Just know that new look and refreshed feeling can be yours. It’s time to add some color to your life!
Top 5 Answers: “Why, Refinish My Kitchen Cabinets?”
-By Guy Gagnon Sept 9 2024
#1 *drum roll please* Save a ton of money!
Not everyone can afford new cabinets because an average size set of new cabinets can cost 20-30 thousand dollars including installation. The cost to paint kitchen cabinets is much less. You will save thousands of dollars by re-painting or a re-toning existing kitchen cabinets. You could even have money left over for upgrades like crown molding at the top of your cabinet, new handles or knobs or re-painting walls or a much needed vacation!
#2 Less Disruption
Aside from a couple days during the actual re-painting or re-toning job, you can still access the microwave, refrigerator, stove and sink during the process versus several months of inconvenience installing new cabinets.
#3 Quick Turnaround
Cabinet painting or re-toning can be done in 5-8 days. A new cabinet installation or even a re-face job can take several months.
#4 Customizable colors.
When shopping for new boxed cabinets your color choices are remarkably limited. A couple shades of white, light or dark grey, blue, green or beige. Gagnon Cabinet Refinishing offers an almost unlimited, highly customizable color selection in a high-quality, cabinet grade finish.
#5 Good for the environment
Why should I throw away a good set of cabinets just because the finish is worn out? Our re-finishing process uses less materials. Refinishing your high-quality cabinets will save some trees and lighten the load on land-fills!
So, there you have the top 5 answers to “Should I paint my kitchen cabinets”.