Picture this: You have a beautiful deck attached to your home for dining and socializing… but it has become a deteriorated structure due to a lack of regular maintenance. Instead of having a deck that enhances the aesthetics of your yard, it is an eyesore.
According to the expert Local Deck Builders, aside from basic upkeep such as power washing, cleaning, staining, and sealing, you can also follow these simple steps to help prevent common issues and extend the lifespan of your deck!
How To Maintain Your Deck?
Deck protection depends on continually maintaining the surface. But remember, wooden and composite decks need slightly different maintenance. Let’s find out what you need to do to maintain your decks:
Wooden Deck Maintenance Tips
Properly sealing a wooden deck with stain is essential to protect it from the damaging effects of rain, dew, and sunlight. Without sealing, the wood may expand, contract, and become dry, making it prone to warping, cracking, and, eventually, a dull grayish look. Therefore, following some maintenance tips is essential to keep your wooden deck in top shape and retain its longevity and beauty.
- It’s essential to clear out any dirt, leaves, or debris from the gaps between your deck boards at least once a year to ensure optimal water drainage and prevent debris from accumulating. You can use a screwdriver or putty knife to remove any build-up and allow debris to fall through the cracks. This simple maintenance step can go a long way in preserving the longevity and beauty of your wooden deck.
- Sweep your entire deck annually to eliminate accumulated dirt, debris, leaves, and more. Before you begin, move your furniture, grill, and other accessories out of the way. This thorough sweep will help keep your deck clean and dry.
- To clean your deck thoroughly, you may use a sprayer or a wide fin on a low setting to power wash it. Alternatively, you can clean it with a long-handled scrub brush. Before cleaning with a brush, pre-rinse the deck to allow the cleaner to disperse better. Use a gentle deck cleaner or a homemade solution. Mix 2 gallons of warm water with 2 cups of oxygen bleach in a bucket to make the solution. Add ¼ cup of ammonia-free liquid dish soap and stir again. If you have mold or mildew spots, add 1 cup of borax to your cleaning solution and scrub the area. Rinse your deck thoroughly to remove all the cleaning solutions.
- It’s recommended to inspect the deck at least once a year. Check for split wood, loose deck boards, rot, wobbly spots, and weak handrails. You should repair, replace, and fortify any parts that are in disrepair, including screws or nails.
- You should restrain or reseal your deck every two to three years to prolong its life. Before staining or sealing your deck, you must clean and sand it first and apply a coat of stain or sealant. If you have a painted deck, you must repaint it every 10 years. If you’re unsure whether to paint or stain your deck, it’s best to talk to an expert about the pros and cons.
- If you feel overwhelmed with the task, consider hiring a professional deck refinisher to tackle the job for you. This is the best way to add years to its life.
Also Read: Simple Maintenance Tips for Keeping Your Porch in Great Shape
Tips To Maintain a Composite Deck
To ensure that your composite deck stays beautiful and durable for years, it’s essential to take care of it. Unlike wood decks, composite decks don’t require staining, sealing, or painting. However, cleaning it annually and repairing any loose or damaged parts is still essential. Here are a few tips that can help you maintain your composite deck durability:
- It’s essential to keep the gaps between the deck boards clear of debris, grass, leaves, or dirt to maintain the quality of your deck. You can use a putty knife or screwdriver to clear the gaps, which helps prevent wood decay and mildew growth and gives a better-looking finish.
- Sweep the deck at least once a year to ensure a thorough cleaning. Remove any obstacles, including furniture, before you start. It will help you eliminate debris, leaves, dirt, etc.
- Clean your deck with a power washer on a low setting, or use a long-handled scrub brush to clean the surface. Apply a gentle deck cleaner or a homemade deck cleaning solution of 2 gallons of warm water and ¼ cup of dish soap.
- Rinse the deck thoroughly to ensure no debris or dirty water dries on the deck. If not, it can cause water or soap spots to appear on your composite deck surface.
- You should inspect your deck at least once a year to ensure it’s in good condition. Look for loose or damaged deck boards, wobbly spots, and weak handrails. If you notice any issues, consider using a composite deck repair kit or replacing the affected deck boards entirely.
DIY vs. Hire a Pro
Annual deck maintenance can be performed quickly with a free weekend and a few essential tools. However, if you plan on refinishing your deck, it may require more time and specialized equipment like an orbital sander. Hire Local Deck Builders and cleaners to remove the deck maintenance and cross it off your to-do list to avoid this task. Moreover, if you are looking for Deck Installers in Atlanta, contact Outdoor Makeover and Living Spaces to complete your job professionally. Make an appointment today!
