Summer is almost here! We can feel the buzz of excitement around vacation, swimming, and of course, hanging out and catching some sun on the deck. From barbecues to laid back afternoons, the deck is a great place to soak in the season. But while that excitement can make us lose track of the less-than-fun responsibilities we have, one that shouldn’t be overlooked is pre-season deck maintenance.
You wouldn’t want to miss out on those hazy lazy days under the sun because of a damaged or even broken deck, would you? With this quick guide to maintaining your favorite outdoor living space, you have nothing to worry about!
Clean and Inspect
Before you can perform any meaningful inspections and repairs, you need to conduct a thorough cleaning as part of your deck maintenance.
Thorough Cleaning
It’s always a good idea to begin the season of sun with a clean slate (pun intended), so break out the cleaning supplies! If all you need is a broom to get rid of the dirt and leaves, lucky you. If you need something a little more heavy-duty, utilize the hose.
Inspect for Damage
Once the deck is squeaky clean, it’ll be much easier to identify any spots that require a bit of repairs. Give the whole structure a thorough look to make sure there aren’t any missing or loose nails, busted boards, or loose railings.
Mold and Mildew Removal
Since heat and humidity can create an environment that mold and mildew thrive in, you may find certain spots that can’t be addressed with just a broom and hose. Take care of these spots with a bleach and water solution or a heavy duty deck cleaner to kill off any unwanted growths.
Repair and Maintain
Did you come across any areas of concern during your deck inspection? If you did, it’s not the end of the world, but you will need to address them before they become a bigger problem. Of course, if you run across any significant concerns, we’re happy to step in and alleviate them.
Fixing Damaged Boards
Rot is a deck board’s worst enemy. If any of them have succumbed to it, don’t procrastinate on repairing them. Remove any affected boards and replace them with new ones. If the damage is only minor, though, you can make repairs with wood filler and sanding. This eliminates the need for brand new pieces that may be expensive.
Nail and Screw Maintenance
Loose hardware can cause a serious safety hazard, so pay close attention to this tip. Ensure everything is snugl;y in its right place. If you noticed an excessive amount of rust, consider upgrading to corrosion-resistant screws, nails, and fasteners. These deck maintenance tips will help fight off the elements throughout the season.
Sealing and Staining
Stain isn’t just used to make a deck look pretty (though that’s an awesome perk). It’s also vital for the deck’s longevity. Resealing and staining can protect wooden structures from the sun, rain, and other elements. Make sure you use a deck treatment that offers great UV protection and water resistance to get the most out of the effort you put in!
Furniture and Accessories
You probably won’t get much from your deck maintenance efforts if there’s no furniture that allows you to enjoy it. Let’s help you spruce it up with these deck furniture ideas.
Cleaning Outdoor Furniture
Tending to the boards and hardware is essential, but don’t leave out the furniture that offers that extra level of charm and relaxation. Use mild detergent to give it regular cleanings and remove stains and dirt; nobody wants to sit in the chair that all the birds have taken a liking to. For metal or plastic pieces, scrubbing with a sponge or brush should get the job done. As for wooden furniture, sanding and refinishing is the way to go.
Comfort and Style
Of course, all that work isn’t worth it if your deck isn’t actually comfortable; this is a place of relaxation, after all. Invest in comfortable cushions and outdoor rugs to up the cozy factor and create an area that you and your guests can truly lounge in. If you want to spruce up the space’s personality, add pops of color with throw pillows and other decor. This is where you can really make your deck beautiful!
Safety Tips
Deck injuries are no joke. Additionally, they’re a surefire way to stop a cookout in its tracks, so let’s go over a few safety tips for your deck before we turn you loose.
Slip-Resistant Treatments
An anti-slip treatment is a great way to prevent injuries. It creates a textured surface that improves traction, even when the deck is wet! It’s a common treatment, so you should be able to find it at your local hardware store.
Railings and Stairs Check
A loose railing or staircase could spell disaster for unsuspecting occupants, so make sure they’re all secure and in top condition. Precarious railings present a major safety hazard, especially for children and elderly guests. Take the time to check all screws and fasteners so everything is snug and firm. If anything is damaged beyond repair, don’t take chances; replace it!
Lighting
We’re willing to bet you’ll spend plenty of time on your deck after the sun goes down. For these occasions, lighting is crucial. There’s no telling what mishaps could occur when none of your guests can see what they’re doing, so make sure your entire space is illuminated! As a bonus perk, lighting can really improve the ambiance of your outdoor living space, so get creative to add that personal touch.
Get Ready for Summer!
And those are the basics. With these deck maintenance tips, you’ll be ready to take on all the summer get-togethers and lounge sessions you want. By cleaning, inspecting, applying deck treatment, and improving safety, you’re ready to take on the summer fun. Taking advantage of some deck furniture ideas will give you that final boost towards a great summer hangout spot.
For any hefty repairs (or a new deck if you don’t already have one), Albaugh & Sons is ready to assist with the outdoor living space you’ve always wanted. Get in touch so your favorite summer spot can be brought right to your door.