How to Keep Your Wooden Deck as Good As New
Traditional wooden decks are enjoyable and comfortable spaces. They are preferred by many over synthetic decks. Wooden decks are much cheaper and stay cool in the hottest summer days. They also last longer, nearly a decade, but they need the right care routine.
Make sure that your wooden deck in its best condition, especially by the coming of summer months. Follow the following steps to properly maintain your wooden deck.
Seal If Necessary
In case your wooden deck is new, you have to wait nearly a year before you seal it. The newly treated wood needs to finish curing. That means wood get rid of moisture and dry well. When a year pass, it is advised that you seal your deck every three years. It depends on the use and weather.
To make sure that your deck is sealed, you can conduct a simple water test. It will give you a good indication if you need to reseal it.
First, put a few drops of water on your deck. If the water beads, then the wood is well sealed. If the wooden boards absorb the water, then you need to reseal it. Perform this test on different spots of your deck as they are exposed to different factors like weather or traffic.
Resealing is very important to keep your wooden deck in good condition. You should check whether its new or you got it a couple of years ago. This also applies to decks made of pressure-treated wood. Putting a sealant will make a transparent Layer that will preserve your deck’s natural look. It will also prevent water seeping in and keep moisture out.
Clean up Well
Year after year, bacteria and mold gather in certain spots in your wooden deck. You need to treat that regularly, otherwise, they will grow and rot your wooden boards. Rotten wood increases safety threats and also the repairs needed.To avoid that, you need to wash your deck thoroughly at least once a year.
It’s advised to use your garden hose and scrub with a suitable deck cleaning material. Bear in mind that if you decided to use power washing, there’s a chance that the stain will be removed. In that case, you need to restrain the wooden boards. Wash your wooden deck well at the beginning of spring. It will give it a beautiful refreshing appearance.
Check Regularly
It is recommended that you perform routine checks of your whole deck regularly over the year. If you let pools of water, stacks of leaves, and piles of snow to remain on your deck, moisture will increase and rot the wood.
You should also search for the fractured or rotting wood boards and repair them immediately. These threats are risky and can cause injury.
Your wooden deck will be your relaxing space this summer. You don’t have to worry about your deck aging if you followed this simple maintenance routine.
In case you don’t have time nor energy to do all the work yourself, hire a pro and he will be ready to help you. Don’t hesitate. Summer is coming.