Five Tips to Ensure Your Deck is Ready for Summer

The warming weather and drier days are a sure sign that we are well into spring, and summer will shortly follow. You may have used your deck all winter, or let it sit neglected. Whatever the case, now is the time to get your deck ready for summer by following these 5 tips.

Inspect Your Deck

The first thing to do is to inspect your deck for any signs of wear or damage. Make sure to not only check the deck boards, but also the railings and support beams underneath. You want to make sure there are no signs of rot or cracked or broken pieces. Make sure each railing piece is secure, and it won’t fall if leaned on.

Fix Any Damage

If you found signs or rot or broken wood, now is the time to get it fixed. While some problems can be fixed by the homeowner, bigger problems may require the help of a professional.

Clean Your Deck

Once you have taken care to thoroughly inspect your deck, it is now time to clean it. Start by sweeping and removing any large debris, such as fallen leaves. Many deck owners are tempted to reach for a pressure washer next, but this is often a mistake, as incorrect pressure washing can chip and damage the wood. This is often best left to the pros. You may choose to use a wood cleaning product and gently scrub the wood, rinsing with a garden hose instead.

Paint or Stain

After your deck is cleaned, you may want to apply a new coat of stain or paint. Adding stain can help to seal your deck, or refresh the old seal, keeping the wood from rotting and helping it to look it’s best. Choose a clear seal if you want the wood to keep its natural appearance, or choose a coloured stain if you want to add something new. If the wood has previously been stained, it is often best to use a matching stain.

Put Out Your Chairs and BBQ

Your deck is safe. It is clean, and it is freshly stained. Now it’s time to roll out the BBQ, set up your furniture, and sit and enjoy the warm spring days.

Don’t forget, if these tips seem like more work than you are willing to do, Deck Experts can do it for you. Give them a call!