If you have an existing deck, we have some tips to help you keep it looking new!
Maintaining Your Deck Step 1: Cleaning
It’s important to keep your deck clean if you want it to look its best. But, cleaning a deck can be a daunting task – especially if it’s big. Not to worry though, we’ve got some tips to help make the job easier.
First things first, you’ll need to gather your supplies. For this project, you’ll need a power washer, a stiff bristled brush, and some deck cleaner. Once you have everything gathered, it’s time to get started.
Start by power washing your deck. This will remove any dirt or debris that has built up over time. Be sure to hold the power washer at an angle so that you don’t damage the wood.
After you’ve power washed the deck, it’s time to scrub it with the brush and cleaner. Work in small sections so that you don’t miss any spots. Rinse the area well after scrubbing and move on to the next section until the entire deck is clean.
Once your done, sit back and enjoy your like-new deck!
Maintaining Your Deck Step 2: Sealing and Waterproofing
Sealing and waterproofing your deck is essential to keeping it looking like new. There are a few different ways you can do this, but the most important thing is to make sure you seal and waterproof your deck before the weather gets too cold or wet.
One way to seal and waterproof your deck is to use a product like Thompsons WaterSeal. This product can be applied with a brush or roller, and it will help protect your deck from the elements. Another option is to use a sealant specifically designed for decks. These products can be found at most home improvement stores, and they will help keep your deck looking its best.
Whatever method you choose, make sure you follow the instructions carefully and apply the sealant or waterproofing product evenly across your entire deck. Once you’re done, you can enjoy your deck for years to come!
Maintaining Your Deck Step 3: Repairs & Maintenance
Assuming that you’ve completed the two previous steps in this guide, your deck should now be ready for its first round of repairs and maintenance. Even if your deck is made of high-quality materials, it’s still susceptible to damage from the elements and everyday wear and tear. By taking care of these issues as they arise, you can keep your deck looking like new for years to come.
The most common issue that decks face is warping or cupping of the boards. This happens when the boards absorb moisture unevenly, causing them to expand or contract. You can tell if your boards are warping if they’re no longer flush with the joists or if they’ve started to cup. If you catch this issue early, you can usually fix it by sanding down the affected areas and re-staining or painting them.
Another common problem is splintering. This happens when the wood fibers start to break down, leaving behind rough edges that can easily snag skin or clothing. If your deck is starting to splinter, you’ll need to replace any damaged boards and then sand down the whole surface to smooth it out again. Once that’s done, you can stain or paint the deck as needed.
And finally, one last thing to watch out for is rot. This occurs when water gets into the wood and starts to break down the fibers from within. Rot can cause serious structural damage to your deck if left unchecked, so it’s important to address
Maintaining Your Deck Step 4: This is an easy one! Regularly Inspect Your Deck
Really, there’s no need to begrudge some extra attention for your deck – it can pay dividends in the form of a beautiful outdoor space. Taking just five essential steps will ensure that not only do you keep your deck looking like new, but also extend its life greatly. With proper care and maintenance, wooden decks can last up to 20 years or more; this means that with routine cleaning and sealing, you won’t have to worry about replacing your outdoor patio for many years to come!