Sunny weather means more time spent on your deck. Natural wear and tear is normal, especially in a high-traffic area like your outdoor living space. Not to mention year-round exposure to the elements that can cause weathering, cracks, rust, and other hazards. Whether your deck is made of composite or hardwood, proper maintenance is necessary to keep it looking good.
In addition to professional servicing, here are some things you can do to ensure your deck stays in great shape and offers many years of outdoor entertainment.
Yearly Deck Inspection
Similarly to your once a year doctor appointment, your deck needs its yearly checkup. Natural settling, weather, and wear can cause cracked boards, loose and protruding nails, mildew and mold, and more. You will need to make sure the frame and joints are secure, as well as the ledger, which is the part that connects the deck to your home.
You can take care of this yourself, or schedule a yearly inspection with Titan Decks. It’s important to do a thorough job if you want your deck to last a lifetime.
Power Washing
To prevent damaging growth such as mold and moss from sprouting on your deck, it’s a good idea to wash it thoroughly. The type of product you use will depend on whether your deck is made of real wood or composite.
When using a pressure washer, make sure to follow the grain of the wood to prevent any damage.
Sealing and Staining Your Deck
A sealant will create a protective barrier over the wood, keeping it safe from the elements. Reinforce the effects of a sealant by staining your natural wood deck boards. Many stains already have the sealant added, and there are many colors you can choose from. Once you decide, consider products that include UV protection and water repellent for further preservation.
Weekly Cleanup
Once per week, sweep away fallen debris that litter the deck. Also, keep any trees trimmed back at least a foot from the area to prevent moss and fungus growth.
Have fun rearranging the outdoor furniture, which should be done regularly in order to keep certain areas from fading faster than others. Also, make sure to pay attention to the space around your grill. Oil and food spills can cause damage to the surface.
Winterize
Michigan winters can start in October and go through April. Those long, cold months can wreak havoc on your deck if you hadn’t properly winterized it.
- Remove outdoor furniture
- Clear off the potted plants (maybe move them indoors)
- Store the grill if it’s not built-in
- Clean off any leaves, and make sure there aren’t any between the boards.
- Remove any snow that builds up–shovel with the grain to lessen the chance of surface scratches
- Avoid putting down any salt or other chemicals that could wear away the finish
If you need assistance with the upkeep of your deck, please reach out to Titan Decks. We’re here to help.