A deck can add a touch of whimsy to your home, but it needs maintenance to keep it in good shape. Regular cleaning, inspections and repairs prevent small issues from escalating into major problems. Contact Deck Builders Murfreesboro TN for professional help.
Moisture is the enemy of wooden decks, leading to rot and mold. Sealing and drainage help protect the wood.
The best way to keep your deck in top shape is to clean it regularly. Sweep away dirt, debris, and leaves to prevent the buildup of mold and mildew. Regularly scrubbing the surface of your deck with a bristle brush or scrub pad can help to lift minor stains as well. If your deck has heavy stains, you may need to use a specialized cleaner. Be sure to read the label and follow all instructions carefully.
For a natural, non-chemical approach to cleaning your composite deck, try using vinegar mixed with water. This is an effective, affordable solution that is safe for the environment and your plants. Be sure to rinse the deck thoroughly afterward to remove all traces of the cleaner. If your deck has significant grime built up, you may need to power wash the surface. Be sure to choose a suitable attachment for your pressure washer (like the concrete cleaning nozzle) and avoid over-washing the surface.
If you have a wood deck, be sure to use an oxygen bleach cleaner or a specialized wood cleaner that’s compatible with your deck’s material. These special cleaners are designed to remove stains without damaging the wood.
Both a power washer and hand scrubbing can be used to remove stubborn stains, but the former is usually faster. Depending on your needs, you can also hire a professional power washing service.
Before you start cleaning your deck, make sure you remove furniture, planters, and anything else that could get in the way of a thorough cleaning. Protect your plants with a plastic drop cloth or spray the area with water to dilute any over-spray of a chemical cleaner that may land on them.
Once your deck has been cleaned, allow it to dry for several days before applying a preservative or stain. Choose a color that closely matches the current shade of your deck, or opt for an opaque or semi-transparent stain for more versatility. Be sure to apply the stain in a well-ventilated area and follow all manufacturer’s instructions. You should expect to reapply sealers and stains every other year, or as often as necessary.
Inspect the Deck
If the wood of your deck is not in good condition, it can be dangerous for people to walk on. This is why it’s important to inspect the deck on a regular basis for damage and wear.
Start with the deck boards and look for signs of warping, cracking, or other problems. These can be a safety hazard and should be replaced as soon as possible. The next thing to check is the structural supports like beams and support posts. They should be in good shape and not sagging or leaning. If any of them are, you will need to call a professional to replace them.
It’s also a good idea to take a look under the deck at the hardware and fasteners. The joist hangers, bolts and screws should not be rusted and all of them should be securely attached to the joists. You should also check the joists themselves for any areas of rot or damage. If you notice any, you should splint them with pressure-treated wood and attach the splint to the joist with two or three 3-inch deck screws every 12 inches.
Finally, you should check the deck footings to make sure they’re firmly attached to the concrete piers and not showing any signs of rot or damage. This is one area that many homeowners forget about, but if the soil is too soft it can lead to water and insect damage on the deck.
If your deck is in a humid climate, it’s especially important to keep an eye out for termite infestation. Look for any ant or termite tunnels under the surface of the deck as well as any areas where the wood is rotting.
Finally, you should check the drainage of your deck to make sure it’s working properly. Water that doesn’t drain properly can cause rot and mold growth on the deck. If you have a lot of standing water on the deck, it may be time to install some downspouts to help divert the water away from the deck’s foundation. If you’re not sure if the deck is waterproof, sprinkle some water on it and see if it soaks in right away.
Replace Broken Boards
When a deck board is broken, the first step is to remove it. A pry bar, hammer, and claw hammer can be used to loosen nails, but care should be taken not to damage adjacent planks. If the joists beneath are still sound, a new board may not be needed. However, the joists should be inspected to ensure that they are free of rot or insect damage, and that the joist is securely attached to the house framing. In these cases, the damaged joist should be treated with a wood preservative and then repaired.
During your inspection, check all fasteners to make sure that they are tight and secure. Be particularly attentive to railing attachments, and check that they are secure and properly supported. Then examine the connections at the bottom of each post, and replace any that are rusted or otherwise not in good condition. You should also look for any areas of damage to the deck framing or ledger boards, and repair as needed.
Cleaning and inspecting a deck is best done in the spring and summer, before heavy use begins. A thorough power wash can remove built-up grime, and a fresh coat of stain or sealant will protect the deck from water damage during the wet season.
Year-round maintenance is also important. Sweep the deck regularly to remove leaves, dirt, and other debris that can cause stains or mold and mildew. Move furniture and planters occasionally to avoid uneven sun fading, which can discolor decking. Choose fade-resistant composite decking if you are concerned about the color of your wood, and consider investing in a retractable awning for additional protection from the elements.
It is a good idea to reapply stain or sealant every one or two years, depending on the product and your environment. This will protect your investment and help to keep the deck looking new. Reapply stain or paint after the surface is clean and dry, and follow the product instructions for application to ensure even coverage. Be aware that it can take days for the deck to dry, so this is a job best done in the summer or when rain is not in the forecast.
Seal the Deck
After cleaning the deck, you can apply a protective coating to extend its lifespan. This step is especially important for wood that has been exposed to moisture, as this can cause rot and mold. A sealer provides a layer of protection that prevents water from seeping into the boards, and it also helps protect against the damaging effects of sunlight. You can find several different kinds of deck sealers, from clear to tinted. Choose a product that suits your needs and the look you want for your deck.
A sealant can be applied with a brush, a pump sprayer, or a paint roller. Follow the product’s instructions for application, and be sure to apply multiple thin coats. This will help avoid pooling and speed up drying time. Once the deck is dry, it’s a good idea to walk around and inspect it for signs of damage or wear. If any boards are loose, you can repair them by driving nails or screws below the surface of the deck and then screwing them back into place. This is also a great opportunity to replace any broken boards.
If you’re using a clear sealant, make sure that the deck isn’t covered by plants or other objects that could stick to the sealant. It’s also a good idea to test the wood for readiness to be sealed before beginning this process. You can do this by pouring a small amount of water on the surface of the deck. If the water beads and doesn’t soak into the deck, it’s not ready for a sealant.
Stain and sealant lose their ability to protect over time, so they need to be reapplied. Depending on how much foot traffic your deck sees, you might need to re-stain or re-seal it every year. It’s a good idea to mark the date on your calendar so that you don’t forget. This is particularly important if you live in an area where the weather changes dramatically throughout the year. Keeping up with this maintenance will ensure that your deck lasts as long as possible and looks its best when you’re hosting friends or family.
