Wood Deck Maintenance Just Turned EasyLast Updated:[4/5/2007 12:04:48 PM]Once the winter snows have melted, will they reveal a deck in good shape or one that needs repairing? Like every other aspect of your home, your deck should be inspected and maintained at least once a year. Maintaining your deck is not only necessary to protect your deck, but to protect yourself and your family from being injured from splinters, loose boards, or protruding nails Most decks are made from pressure treated pine boards, which will last thirty years or more before they need to be replaced. However, splintering can occur after only a few months if the boards are not properly maintained. For this reason, it is important to do the following once a year to keep your deck in good shape. Deck maintenance should begin by thoroughly inspecting your deck. Start by removing any toys or furniture from the deck and sweeping away larger debris. Then check each inch of the deck for loose boards, splintering, and protruding nails. Reinforce or replace nails and boards as necessary. The next step is to clean your deck. There are three types of deck cleaners: chlorine bleach, oxygen bleach, and oxalic acid based. Chlorine bleach cleaners are not recommended because they can harm the wood and cause the wood fibers to fuzz. Oxygen bleach cleaners are mixed with water, which creates a hydrogen peroxide and soda ash cleaning base. It is effective for removing mildew stains, graying from sun exposure, dirt, and other deposits. Oxalic acid based cleaners do not remove mildew stains, but will remove most other ones. Make sure you read and follow the directions for the cleaning solution carefully. Before beginning, carefully protect surrounding plants and make sure any children will be kept away from the deck. You may need to hose the deck down before applying the cleaning solution with a broom, spray can, or power washer. If scrubbing is necessary, it can be done using a scrub brush or push broom. In general, chemicals that are more powerful require less scrubbing. Allow the solution to sit for time recommended before rinsing. If using a power washer, be careful not to use too much pressure, which can damage the wood. Once your deck has been thoroughly washed and allowed to dry for at least twenty-four hours, it is time to seal it. Make sure you pick a water repellent (not resistant) sealant that contains ultraviolet sunlight protection. If you have had or expect problems with mildew, the finish should also contain a mildewcide. However, do not use polyurethane or varnish finishes because they will degrade in direct sunlight. Before beginning, it is important to check a weather report. Sealants need to dry at least twenty-four hours before it rains. This can be difficult job in areas that are experiencing rain every couple of days, but important if you want your sealant to be effective. You may need to put down extra tarps to protect plants, air conditioners, and any other items from the sealant, especially if it is tinted. Spraying is the fastest method to apply sealants, but it is also the most difficult to control. For better results, use a roller and brush to apply the sealant. Apply the sealant generously and allow the wood to absorb it. While you are waiting for the sealant to dry, take the time to clean your deck furniture thoroughly. Also, you should not forget to go to the store to pick up some hamburgers or steaks for the grill. That way, you will be able to enjoy the deck almost immediately the next day. |
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