1 # COMPOUND INTERIOR PAINTING CONTRACTORS HASTINGS ON HUDSON NY

/ INTERIOR & EXTERIOR POUND RIDGE / By

What Is Joint Compound?

Joint compound is a product made up of primarily gypsum dust and

limestone that is available both in powder form and pre-mixed. Intended for finishing new drywall and repairing drywall, joint compound’s mud-like texture earned it its informal name “drywall mud.” ABOUT

When to Use Joint Compound

The main purpose of joint compound is finishing new drywall and performing large drywall repairs and patches. Because joint compound

has a slower drying time than spackle, it has a longer working time, which allows the user more time to achieve a smooth surface. manuelzpaintinghomeimprovementinc.com

quality interior painting

Natural Cedar Restoration (Deck, Siding, Fence)

Here’s a professional, step-by-step process to restore cedar and bring back its natural color while protecting the wood long-term.

1. Inspection & Prep

  • Check for rot, loose boards, popped nails, splinters
  • Replace damaged cedar before cleaning
  • Protect plants, windows, and nearby surfaces

2. Cleaning (Key Step)

Goal: Remove dirt, mildew, old stain, and gray oxidation

Best method

  • Use a cedar-safe wood cleaner or stripper (oxygenated or sodium percarbonate)
  • Apply with pump sprayer
  • Let dwell 10–15 minutes (don’t let it dry)
  • Light pressure wash
    • 500–800 PSI for siding
    • 800–1,000 PSI for decks
  • Always follow the wood grain

⚠️ Avoid high pressure — it will fuzz and scar cedar

3. Brightening (Restores Natural Color)

  • Apply a wood brightener (oxalic acid)
  • Neutralizes the cleaner
  • Restores warm cedar tone
  • Opens pores for better stain absorption
  • Rinse thoroughly

4. Drying Time

  • Let cedar dry 48–72 hours
  • Moisture content should be below 15%

5. Sanding (If Needed)

  • Light sanding for:
    • Fuzzy wood
    • Raised grain
    • Heavy weathering
  • Use 80–100 grit (don’t over-sand)

6. Natural Finish Protection

For a true natural look, use:

  • Clear or Natural-tone penetrating oil
    • Semi-transparent cedar oil
    • UV inhibitors are a must

Application

  • Brush or stain pad (best control)
  • Back-brush for even penetration
  • One coat usually enough (follow manufacturer)

7. Maintenance Schedule

  • Clean yearly
  • Re-oil every 12–24 months
  • Avoid film-forming stains (they peel on cedar)

Best Products (Professional Grade)

  • Cleaners: Restore-A-Deck, Armstrong-Clark, DEFY
  • Brighteners: Oxalic acid-based
  • Finishes: Penetrating oil, semi-transparent cedar tone