Sealing vinyl on wood before using it outdoors is crucial to ensure its longevity and performance. Properly sealing the vinyl will protect it from weathering, discoloration, and other damage from the elements. This allows your vinyl to maintain its attractive appearance for years while also preserving the wood underneath. Sealing vinyl on wood can be done with a few simple steps using common hardware store products.
Why Sealing Vinyl is Important for Outdoor Use
Vinyl itself is durable and water-resistant. However, when applied to porous materials like wood, moisture can still seep in between the vinyl and the wood. This can cause bubbling, peeling, mildew, and rotting of the wood if left unsealed over time.
Here are some of the benefits of properly sealing vinyl on wood for outdoor use:
- Prevents moisture damage – A sealant blocks water and moisture from getting underneath the vinyl and compromising the wood. This prevents warping, rotting, and mold growth.
- UV protection – Sealants often contain UV inhibitors which prevent vinyl from becoming brittle and discolored from sun exposure. This maintains its vibrant look.
- Improved adhesion – Sealant helps the vinyl bond tightly to the wood surface for a wrinkle-free application. No bubbles, lifting edges, or peeling.
- Longer vinyl life – By protecting the underlying wood and vinyl from moisture and UV rays, your vinyl will last for many years before needing replacement.
- Enhances visual appeal – A sealed vinyl surface retains its glossy, uniform appearance much longer compared to unsealed vinyl.
Thoroughly sealing vinyl prior to outdoor installation is worth the small time and cost investment. It saves you from more costly vinyl repairs or replacement down the road.
Clean and Prepare the Wood Surface
Before applying any sealant, the wood surface underneath the vinyl must be cleaned and prepared properly. Here are the key steps:
1. Remove any existing paint, stain, or old sealant
- Use a paint scraper to strip off any existing coatings on the wood. Chemical strippers may be needed for thicker layers.
- Sand the wood with 80-100 grit sandpaper to smooth any rough areas.
- Clean with a strong wood cleaning solution and rinse thoroughly. Allow to fully dry.
2. Fill cracks and holes
- Inspect the wood and fill any small holes, cracks, or imperfections with exterior-grade wood filler.
- Allow the filler to dry completely as directed, then sand flush with the wood surface.
3. Sand the wood
- After any needed repairs, sand all wood surfaces lightly with 120-150 grit sandpaper.
- This helps smooth the surface and open the wood grain for better sealant adhesion.
- Wipe wood clean after sanding to remove any dust or debris.
4. Apply wood conditioner
- Using a paintbrush, apply a thin coat of wood conditioner evenly across all wood surfaces.
- This seals the porous wood grain and prevents uneven absorption of sealants.
- Let the conditioner soak in for 15-20 minutes, then wipe away any excess.
Once prepped, the wood should have a smooth, blemish-free surface ready for vinyl and sealing.
Choose the Best Sealant for Vinyl on Wood
There are several good sealant options for use under vinyl flooring and wall coverings. The best choice depends on the specifics of your project.
Polyurethane
Polyurethane is one of the most common wood sealers used under vinyl. Oil-based polyurethane is best for outdoor use due to its superior moisture resistance. Pros:
- Excellent moisture protection
- Durable and long-lasting
- High UV resistance
- Enhances wood grain
Cons:
- Strong odor during application
- Long dry time between coats
Spar Urethane
Spar urethane is a specialty type of polyurethane designed for exterior wood. It contains UV blockers and extra water repellency.
Pros:
- Superior UV protection
- Maximum water resistance
- Withstands weather extremes
- Clear finish
Cons:
- More expensive than regular polyurethane
- Strong fumes require ventilation
Exterior Wood Sealers
Sealers like Thompson’s Water Seal are formulated for exterior wood surfaces. They soak deep into the wood grain to protect from moisture.
Pros:
- Simple water-based application
- Low odor
- Penetrates well for moisture protection
Cons:
- Less durable than polyurethane
- May require more frequent reapplication
Epoxy Resins
Two-part epoxy resins create a thick, glossy seal on wood surfaces. They are extremely durable and waterproof.
Pros:
- Superior moisture barrier
- Protects against mold and mildew
- Highly chemical resistant
Cons:
- More difficult to apply than other sealants
- Expensive compared to other options
For most vinyl sealing projects, an oil-based or spar polyurethane offers the best combination of moisture protection, durability, and ease of application.
How to Apply Sealant Under Vinyl
Once you’ve chosen the right sealant for your project, follow these steps to apply it properly under vinyl:
1. Prepare the sealant
- Stir or shake sealant thoroughly before using according to manufacturer directions.
- If using polyurethane, thin the first coat 10-15% with mineral spirits for better wood penetration.
2. Apply first coat
- Use a good quality natural bristle brush to apply the sealant. Work it thoroughly into the wood grain.
- Maintain a wet edge as you work to prevent lap marks and bubbles from forming as it dries.
- Sealer will appear milky white until it penetrates the wood.
3. Allow first coat to dry
- Let the first coat dry for the time recommended by the manufacturer. This may take 2-6 hours.
- Proper drying is vital to achieve maximum moisture protection from the sealant.
4. Lightly sand and recoat
- Once fully dry, lightly sand the first coat with 220 grit sandpaper.
- This helps the second coat adhere properly. Remove all dust.
- Apply the second coat in the same manner as the first. Allow to dry fully.
5. Apply any additional coats
- For optimal sealing, apply 3-4 thin coats rather than 1-2 thick coats.
- Lightly sand and recoat until you achieve the desired sealed finish.
- Let the final coat cure for at least 24-48 hours before applying vinyl.
When in doubt, it’s always better to apply an extra coat of sealant before vinyl rather than risk moisture damage later on.
How to Apply Vinyl Over Sealed Wood
Once the sealant has fully cured, you’re ready to install the vinyl flooring or wall covering. Follow all manufacturer instructions for proper vinyl application. Here are some tips:
- Thoroughly clean the sealed surface to remove any dust or debris before applying vinyl.
- Use vinyl adhesive made for exterior applications for the strongest bond. Apply an even layer with a paint roller.
- Position the vinyl carefully onto the adhesive and smooth from the middle outward using a soft squeegee. This avoids trapping air bubbles.
- Use a J-roller on flooring to help press it firmly into the adhesive for a tight bond across the whole surface.
- Trim excess vinyl around edges with a sharp utility knife. Seal edges with exterior-grade caulk.
- Roll over vinyl surface again after 24 hours to re-adhere any slightly lifted edges.
Take care when applying vinyl over freshly sealed wood to prevent air pockets, lifting edges, or other application issues. Following the manufacturer’s directions along with these tips will result in professional-looking results.
How to Maintain and Reseal Vinyl Outdoors
To keep your vinyl wood project looking its best, follow these maintenance practices:
- Inspect vinyl every 6 months for any gaps, bubbles, lifting edges or other damage. Reseal or reapply as needed.
- Wash vinyl periodically with mild soap and water to remove dirt and mildew. Avoid harsh cleaners.
- Reapply sealant beneath vinyl every 2-3 years to maintain moisture and UV protection as it wears over time.
- For flooring, routinely sweep away dirt and rebuff to restore shine. Avoid excessive water exposure.
- Keep vinyl out of direct sun when possible and use shade structures, curtains, or awnings to prolong its life.
- Check wood underneath vinyl annually for any moisture issues and reseal at the first sign of problems.
With proper sealing and care, vinyl on wood can retain its like-new quality and eye-catching appeal for many years of outdoor use and enjoyment. Plan on resealing regularly and addressing any issues promptly to get the longest life from your vinyl.
FAQs About Sealing Vinyl on Wood
Q: Does vinyl need to be sealed before using it outside?
Yes, it is highly recommended to seal vinyl before outdoor use, especially when applied to porous surfaces like wood. The sealant protects the wood from moisture damage and also helps the vinyl withstand sun exposure and other outdoor elements.
Q: What’s the best way to prep wood before sealing vinyl?
Proper wood prep is vital for good sealant adhesion. Remove any old finishes, fill cracks, sand smooth, and apply wood conditioner before sealing. This provides the cleanest surface for the sealant to bond to.
Q: Can I use indoor sealants like polyurethane outside?
You can, but exterior-grade sealants like marine polyurethane or spar urethane are better for outdoor use. They contain UV blockers and extra water repellency that prolong the life of both the wood and vinyl.
Q: How long does sealant need to dry before applying vinyl?
Most sealants require 24-48 hours of cure time before applying vinyl. This ensures the sealant has hardened fully so the vinyl bonds tightly. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended dry times.
Q: Do I need a primer before using sealant on wood?
Most quality sealants don’t require a separate wood primer. They are formulated to soak into bare wood and seal the surface. Using a primer first can interfere with proper sealant adhesion.
Q: What’s the best way to apply sealant under vinyl?
Use a natural bristle brush to work sealant into the wood grain. Apply thin coats, allowing proper drying time between each. Three to four coats is better than one or two thick coats for optimal protection.
Q: How can I get rid of bubbling or lifting vinyl edges after sealing?
Bubbles and lifted edges usually mean there wasn’t adequate sealant adhesion. Remove vinyl in problem spots, reseal wood, allow to dry, then reapply vinyl using exterior adhesive to form a tighter bond.
Q: How often should I reseal vinyl outdoors?
It’s a good idea to plan on resealing underneath vinyl every 2-3 years. Check for any moisture issues annually and reseal immediately at the first sign of problems to avoid wood rot or other damage.
Conclusion
Sealing vinyl before outdoor wood installation takes a little extra time but delivers big rewards. Following the proper preparation, sealant selection, application, and maintenance steps outlined will provide long-lasting protection for your project. Take care to adequately seal edges, seams, and end cuts where moisture intrusion is most likely to occur. With the right sealant and application process, your vinyl will retain its vibrant look for many years while keeping the underlying wood intact. Be sure to reseal and make any needed repairs at the first sign of vinyl or wood deterioration. Your properly sealed vinyl on wood will keep looking great season after season.