Tag: Deck Maintenance

How To Enjoy Your Deck During The Winter

Posted on by John Langlois

Your deck is the center of family life during the summer. You work, rest, and play on your treasured outdoor living space. But then the cold harshness of a Michigan winter sets in, and you watch the snow accumulate on the deck railings. You may long for those warm months, but did you know you could still find ways to enjoy your deck, even during the winter?

Winterizing Your Deck

Whether your deck is made of composite or real wood, it needs to be taken care of so it can continue to take care of you. Regardless of what season you plan to use it, your deck needs to be winterized in order to lengthen its lifespan. 

Winter weather wreaks havoc on decks, especially if it is not taken care of properly. Here are a few steps you can take to maintain your deck:

  • Apply a protective finish prior to winter weather. 
  • Remove any noticeable mildew or mold
  • Clear off any clutter
  • Consider covering with a tarp
  • Use a broom (it’s more gentle on the composite) to remove snow and ice accumulation

Using Your Deck During The Winter

Michigan is a winter wonderland. Unless we are having one of our notorious mild winters, or until you have to shovel heavy snow off your driveway. There’s absolutely no reason you can’t enjoy the benefit of your deck, even when the snow and temperatures are falling. 

  • Add warmth: Firepits, patio heaters, or other outdoor heat sources can transform your deck into a cozy gathering spot. Roast marshmallows, drink hot chocolate, and breathe in the crisp air. With any type of fire, make sure it is raised above the deck surface to protect not only your deck but your home as well. 
  • Cover it up: Consider adding an awning close to your fire pit or outdoor fireplace. Throw a weather-proof seating arrangement down and you’ve got a great space to enjoy. 
  • Light it up: Adding colorful holiday lights to your deck will give it a festive feel all winter long. Make sure the lights you use are indoor/outdoor for the best results. 
  • Take a dip: Installing a hot tub on your deck will bring year-round enjoyment. Especially during the winter. It’s cold outside, but it’s warm in that jacuzzi. Have some thick towels or robes waiting for when you’re ready to get out. 
  • Remain the grillmaster: Just because it’s cold and snowy doesn’t mean you can’t grill up some kabobs, steaks, fish, or whatever is on the menu. Keep a shovel nearby, just in case you need to forge a little path to that grill. 
  • Come sled away: Maybe your yard doesn’t have a hill. The stairs, covered in a thick blanket of snow, can create a great makeshift ramp.

Turn Your Deck Into An Ice Rink

Your deck can become THE winter hotspot, guaranteed to bring all the kids to your yard.  Just add skates and hot chocolate, and it’s a wrap.

To turn your deck into an ice rink:

  • Lay down a large tarp, creating borders so water doesn’t immediately escape when added.
  • Secure the tarp using bricks or an equally heavy object to hold it down.
  • Fill the tarp with a few inches of water from your garden hose. Doing it all at once will create a smoother surface. 
  • If the surface seems lumpy, add a little bit of hot water to smooth it out.  
  • For any cracks, just fill in with snow and smooth it over. 
  • Allow it to freeze. 
  • When you aren’t using the ice rink, consider lightly covering it with another piece of tarp. 

That’s it. 

Super easy to do and will provide hours of fun for the family. If it snows, just use a broom or a light shovel to sweep it clear. 

Disclaimer: a weathered deck may not be able to support this adventure. Make sure your deck is in good condition before considering turning your deck into an ice rink because it has the potential to be hazardous. 

If enjoying the Michigan winters is something you’d prefer from inside your house, then consider having a deck cover professionally installed. 

If you’re in the market for a deck refresh or new build, contact Titan Decks today for a free estimate. Get 15% off your new deck build, now through February 1st.

How To Prevent Mold From Invading Your Deck

Posted on by John Langlois

Decks can get mold and mildew which can make the surface dangerously slippery. Composite decking is not impervious to mold any more than wood is. Learn how it forms on decks, and how you can prevent mold. 

How Does Mold Form?

Mold is also known as mildew, algae, fungus, and other names. It’s a little microscopic floating organism that grows and spreads once it finds a food source. When talking about outdoor mold, the food source is generally fallen pollen or leaf debris. If the source is left too long, mold spores attack…and hey, they’re really hungry. 

The mold finds a home in all the nooks and crannies of your deck and grows. 

  • Mold thrives in damp areas
  • It needs pollen, dirt, and debris to grow
  • It loves moderate temperatures
  • Mold will “hibernate” when it gets cold, and become active once the weather warms
  • It hides in shady areas
  • Mold avoids full sunlight

Prevent Mold On Your Deck

The most effective preventative of mold growth is keeping your deck clear of debris. It’s not 100% guaranteed to keep mold at bay because it can be a sneaky little devil. But, if you make a weekly habit of sweeping and washing your composite or wood deck, you can slow down mold or mildew growth. 

  • Do not powerwash if your deck has a mold problem. It can stuff the mold further into those crevices and create a bigger problem.
  • Use a cleaner if using a power washer.
  • If at all possible, build a deck where it gets direct sunlight–ultraviolet rays are mold spore kryptonite. 
  • If possible, clear away trees or low-hanging branches
  • Allow a gap between boards for irrigation and draining

Choose Composite Decking Materials To Avoid Mold

Decking materials are susceptible to mold if not properly treated. However, natural woods are more apt to collect those pesky spores because of the natural grain. 

Composite materials, although they still can get mold, are a solid choice. They’re virtually immune to warping and splinters. Plus, bees don’t congregate and bugs won’t burrow. Those are two of the many other reasons to choose composite over wood, by the way!

However, since composite decking is made with wood by-products, mold does find opportunities to grow, especially if your deck isn’t appropriately maintained. With the right safeguards in place, you can have a mold-free deck that lasts a lifetime. 

Call us today for your free in-home estimate for that composite deck you’ve been considering. 

What You Should Know Before Choosing A Composite Deck?

Posted on by John Langlois

Are you trying to decide between natural wood and composite material for your new deck? Both have good qualities, which makes choosing even more difficult. However, there is a reason for the rise in the popularity of composite decking. Doing research, like you are now, is the best way to make an informed decision on choosing your decking materials. 

Read on for some very important things you should know about composite materials for decks. 

Know The City Code

It almost seems like decking materials would be a non-issue when it came to city codes. That’s not the case. Not all cities allow the entire deck to be made of composite materials. If you’re working with a deck builder, that company should be aware of what can and cannot be done. If you’re building your own deck, call your city clerk office to learn more information before buying your deck materials. 

Know Composite Costs A Bit More

Composite material does tend to run pricier than traditional wood by two to three times the price per square foot. However, composite has a longer lifespan, so that makes up for the cost in the long run. And, composite decking requires much less maintenance, which alleviates some aggravation caused by wood decking. 

Know The Different Qualities

Not all composite decking materials are made to look like wood. The more expensive the product, the more it looks like natural wood, from the grain to the feel. The more texture the composite has, the more likely it is to trap in grime and debris. But, a simple washing will clean it right up. 

Know A Composite Deck May Be Slippery When Wet

Composite materials with little to no texture can become hazardous when wet. This is due to the finish, along with no roughness for grip. If you’re building any stairs for your deck, think about upgrading to a more natural, ridge-filled composite to prevent any unwanted mishaps. 

Know Some Composites Get Dangerously Hot

Composite decking can get scorching hot. Many companies now offer materials that are less heat-absorbing. If you’re choosing a darker color, take some samples. Leave them out in the direct sun, this will help you in determining which of your choices will allow you carefree barefooting across the surface. Or, you could go with a lighter shade of decking and not have to worry. 

Composite decking may not be real wood, but it’s much easier to take care of. Plus, most composite products come with a 20-year warranty! You can’t say that for a wood deck, those only include splinters free of charge.  
Working with a decking expert like Farmington Hills, Michigan-based Titan Decks will help you choose your deck material and design it to your specifications. They’ll make sure your deck is safe to enjoy for many seasons to come.

How To Know When It’s Time For A New Deck

Posted on by John Langlois

A healthy wood or composite deck is a happy one. It doesn’t matter how well your deck is built, or what it’s made from, it is still outside and unprotected from all the elements. Catching any issues early on may prevent the need for a complete deck replacement. 

What To Look For When Self Inspecting

A routine inspection is necessary in order to maintain the lifespan of your deck. At the very least, you need to use a screwdriver or awl and take a look at how it’s faring, once per year. 

  • The posts: These are what hold up your structure. Look for any water damage or wood rot. One or two could easily be replaced. But, if you see issues with all of the posts then it may be time to think about getting a new deck.
  • The joists: Joists make sure your build is stable. Because they are difficult to replace, damage to the joists means you may need a new deck. 
  • The railing: Before entertaining on your deck, it’s good practice to ensure the security of the rails. If they are unsteady or rotting, it’s a potential hazard. 
  • The ledger board: This is what secures the deck to your house. If it’s pulling away in any areas, then it can collapse. 
  • The age: Decks over 5 years old should be inspected professionally. 

Sagging

If your deck is sagging, there could be a structural issue. A damaged substructure or beams can be the culprit. If either of those are the cause, then consider having a new one installed. 

Cracking

Wood decks are exposed to the elements all year round. When the wood starts splintering, warping,  or cracking, and no amount of sealer makes it look any better, that’s a sign your deck needs to be replaced. 

Rotting

Rotting wood is damp, soft, and structurally unsound. When one or two pieces have rot, that means the rest of the adjoining boards will closely follow in its footsteps. Replacing those rotten pieces may save the deck, but it is a warning sign that a new deck may be the safest route. 

Nails popping

An occasional nail pop is natural. But, if you’re noticing that several nails aren’t staying in place, even after a session with a hammer, this could mean the boards need to be replaced. 

Termite invasion

These pesky insects burrow into the wood and cause it to hollow out, which makes your wood planks more prone to rotting. If you don’t get rid of the termites, the problem they cause will worsen. 

Wood or composite, decks need an annual inspection to keep it healthy. If you’ve noticed any of the issues stated above, then it is time to bring in a professional to help you determine if your deck is salvageable or needs replacing. 

How To Take Care Of Your Deck

Posted on by John Langlois

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. 

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