A deck is a great place to entertain and relax at the end of a long day. To keep it in top shape, consistent care is essential. Without regular attention, exposure to weather and daily wear may lead to costly repairs. By taking a few easy steps, you can ensure your deck remains a welcoming space.
Cleanliness Is the Key
Dirt and other debris stick to your deck and tend to accumulate over time, especially in corners or between boards. Filthy conditions often trap moisture, promoting wood rot or mildew growth if left unattended. Cleaning your deck will go a long way, particularly after storms or windy days that make the debris collect at a high rate. Sometimes, the surface also needs a little boost of water and some mild cleanser to help remove grime that may not be detected by sweeping alone.
Cleaning up the spills of food, drinks, and grease on the spot is also important as these may soak through to the wood and be more difficult to remove later. Regularly cleaning the dirt and stains from the surface not only improves its appearance but also helps it maintain its structural integrity.
Protect Your Deck From Sun Damage
The ultraviolet rays from the sun slowly damage your deck. Wood decks are generally more vulnerable to this degradation. Prolonged exposure may cause wood to fade, crack, or dry out. Applying a good-quality sealant or stain that contains UV protection is a great way to combat damage from the sun. Besides protection, they also bring out the natural beauty of the wood. Have the sealant reapplied yearly to retain the protection.
Address Moisture and Water Issues
The leading threat to deck longevity is water. Pooling water, which seeps into cracks or joints, will eventually weaken the wood, or worse, cause warping. If heavy rain recently passed through your area, inspect your deck for spots where water is not draining off as well as it should. Simple adjustments, such as changing the placement of furniture, removing blockages of drainage paths, or modifying the surrounding landscaping, may allow water to move more freely.
Check for Loose Boards and Nails That Stick Out
Temperature fluctuations and heavy use allow boards to work loose or nails to pop up. Periodically walking across your deck helps you find these issues before they become safety hazards. If you find loose boards, have them secured right away to avoid accidents.
Prepare Your Deck for Winter Weather
Winter can be hard on decks, especially when it brings heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. Make sure the deck is clean before the first snowfall, and have a fresh coat of sealant applied if necessary. That extra layer of protection keeps the snow and ice from seeping into the wood.
When it snows, gently remove it with a plastic shovel, as metal shovels will scratch the surface. Salt and chemical ice-melting products have a deteriorating effect on the finish and degrade the wood.
By developing a maintenance schedule, you’ll be able to stay on top of these tasks without getting overwhelmed. What’s more, a professional can help. If you’re in Independence, OH and need a general contractor for deck or patio services, contact Synchronous Construction today!
