You And Your Deck: The Basics Of Deck Maintenance
For many homeowners, deck maintenance is a difficult endeavor
, which they keep putting off year after year. But actually, maintaining a deck is relatively easy; it's just a matter of knowing how to get the structure clean and add finishes to preserve it from decay.
How to maintain a deck: the first step
Before performing any deck maintenance, you should inspect the wood for rotting. Rotten beams or posts will probably have to be replaced by a deck contractor, but if the wood is in decent condition, a staining and sealing will sustain it for another several years.
Likewise, a "mossy" or discolored deck can be improved with a few simple deck maintenance tools, such as a scraper, wire brush, and high-powered hose. A thorough cleaning with these tools will bring back the original wood, so you can perform further deck maintenance.
So, if your deck is structurally sound, but suffers from discoloration, mold, or other wearing, you'll first want to get it clean, and then apply protection.
Cleaning and Maintaining Your Deck
With new advances in high-pressure portable power-washers, lots of do-it-yourselfers are embracing water-based solutions for getting down to the hard wood on a deck maintenance project.
Power washing for deck maintenance is relatively quick and easy: rent or buy a unit and navigate its simple controls, then spray your deck clean. You'll be surprised at what the spray takes off.
However, for more stubborn stains or discoloration, a wire brush, scraper, or sander may be required.
Staining and Sealing Your Deck
When you've got your deck maintenance project down to clean, smooth surfaces, you'll need the basic elements of staining and sealing: liquid protection products and application tools.
The traditional approach to maintaining a deck is to use brushes to apply sealers; however, new "paint-pads" offer convenient new ways to get your deck covered.
It helps to have a plan for applying your products; work from one end of the deck to another to avoid getting "boxed in", particularly with deck projects that are above ground level and enclosed by walls. You'll also want to apply the stains and sealers in even amounts as much as possible to keep the deck from looking spotty.
For good wood protection and deck maintenance, many deck owners go with products like Minwax, Thompson's Waterseal, or other brand-name products. Look for staining and sealing products that offer a great dried tone that complements your deck furniture.
by: Mike Mussog
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