Decks are one of the best parts of a home because they give you a place of relaxation outdoors. They let you bask in the sunlight and enjoy the warm breeze without leaving your house. However, because they are situated outside and are exposed to harsh elements, they may show signs of wear and tear over time.

So, before that happens, it’s important to follow some tips that help maintain them regularly. In that way, you can prevent any deck issue from causing further damage or leading to a costly deck repair. Listed below are some deck maintenance you can do.

Clean Them Properly

One of the things you can do to maintain your decks is to ensure they are cleaned properly. Cleaning them helps remove elements like stains, loose dirt, debris, mold, and mildew before they worsen and create more deck problems. But the best way to do this is by using the right cleaning materials, those that are safe for your deck surfaces, like oxygen bleach and oxalic acid-based solutions.

Aside from that, you should avoid cleaning techniques that are too harsh for your decks, like pressure washing. Soft washing is a more suited option, especially for a wood deck.

Check if Repairs Are Necessary

Other than cleaning your decks, inspecting them for damage is the next best thing to do. You should look out for cracked, loose, and rotten boards, rusty screws and nails, and unsecured deck railings. Once you spot them, have them repaired immediately. Mending these issues right away is necessary because it prevents accidents or more structural damage from occurring.

Apply a Sealant and a Stain

Another thing you can do to maintain your deck is to reapply its sealant ideally biweekly. Sealants help prevent water penetration in your deck surface, which is particularly important if it’s made of wood.

Similarly, deck staining should also be applied every two to three years. This oil-based solution is important because it protects your deck against harsh UV rays that cause cracks and fade the wood color. It also shields it from moisture and prevents your deck from rotting.

Talk to Trusted Deck Specialists

Maintenance is an essential step in prolonging the life of your decks. Aside from the mentioned tips, it’s best to have your decks checked by a professional regularly. This is to ensure that every approach necessary, whether a deck repair or deck replacement, is done right away.

To acquire assistance from our deck cleaners or staff members in professional deck installation and repair, reach out to us at AW Home Improvement LLC. Contact our office in Cedar Rapids, IA to learn how you can get your free estimate today!