Proper maintenance of your deck is vital if you want to keep it in excellent shape and avoid expensive repairs. Insects, weather, and grime cause wear and tear, which is why proper deck maintenance is important. In this article, we’ll outline crucial maintenance tips to keep your deck looking good.
Install deck covering
To maintain your deck’s stunning appearance, you should cover it during hot summers and rainy seasons. Professional deck covering companies like Royal Decks and Landscapes can provide quality deck coverings that allow you to use your deck throughout the year. In addition, you can comfortably host small events such as dinners and birthday parties here.
Regularly clean your deck
A dirty deck invites mildew and mold that causes rot. You need to come up with a cleaning schedule to prevent bacteria from finding a way into your deck. Here is how you clean your deck:
- Use a putty knife to get rid of debris between deck boards
- Wrap all plants in plastic film after they’ve been wet
- Remove loose debris from the deck by sweeping
- Make sure to use the right cleanser for your deck’s surface. The best deck cleaner for wood decks is a standard deck cleaner. Cellular PVC can be cleaned with warm water and mild soap, while composite decks need cleaners designed specifically for composite decks
- Clean the deck on a cloudy day to prevent the cleaner from evaporating
- Allow the deck to dry and seal it after two days
Seal your deck
The best way to preserve your deck is by sealing it using a water-resistant sealer, water repellant toner, or wood preservative. A sealant protects your deck from damages from sunlight and water all year round. In addition, sealing helps to keep the wood from breaking and warping.
When applying the sealant on your deck, it is advisable to put on a mask, eye protection, and gloves. Additionally, you should not apply sealant on a wet surface, which is why it’s advisable to choose a day with moderate temperatures and clear skies.
Regularly inspect your deck
It is wise to conduct a thorough deck inspection, especially on a warm and dry day. You will need to pay close attention to areas where water flows, probably from downspouts and planters. In addition, focus on all deck areas, including joists, stairs, posts, beams, and hangers. To make your inspection easier, ensure you check the following:
- Look for signs of cracks and rot
- Check to see the ledger is well connected with screws and not nails, it doesn’t have any rot, and its flashing has no holes and rust
- Make sure the railing posts are in good shape and not loose
If you find any damages, you need to repair them as soon as possible.
Endnote
Maintaining your deck can be cumbersome, but it is well worth the effort. Deck maintenance keeps your deck in great shape and looking good. These tips will help you to keep your deck looking good for years and give your home a fantastic look.
