Non-Skid decks

[Clyde A. Phillips]

     I came aboard this evening to say something about Karen's and Bob's interchange about non-skid that I (think I) saw this afternoon. But, doggies, I can't find their discussions now! So I'll just say this about that:

     Unless things have changed since the '70's (and I expect they have) the first choice of paint additive for a non-skid surface is walnut shell. That is what Ack had the paint gang use and it was literally non-skid! The thing to keep telling yourself while using it is "Keep stirring!” The  walnut shell pieces have very sharp edges that really do the job, but they settle out quickly so you almost have to have someone with you stirring constantly while you paint.

     I remember one non-skid job being applied by painting the deck and then applying good, well graded sand while the paint was wet. After the paint dried well the excess sand was swept off. This proved to be equal to walnut shell for non-slip properties, but laying down the sand must be done evenly.  Then usage seemed to quickly wear down the non-skid ability and it wouldn't look so good. I’d suggest that well ahead of your planned application you do some experimentation with all the different ways to apply the various kinds of non-skid.  Use your back steps to your house or some other area of high usage to see what happens over time.  That will give you experience in applying and will give you an idea of how long it may last.

     I did have a chance (was told to by the boss) to apply walnut shell one time and I had to keep one hand stirring and one painting. I could have used one more to carry the paint and another to help me move around, but, lo and behold, I have only two arms.

 

[bob mitchell]

TESTING - I forgot I used to do that a lot. thanks, Capt. Clyde.