An outdoor deck is one of the best ways to extend your home’s living space, so it only makes sense to make sure that it stays well-maintained and sturdy. Deck and roofing contractor Pechacek’s General Contracting, Roofing & Siding LLC shares tips on how to care for your outdoor deck.
Keep Your Deck Clean
Outdoor decks can be made from different materials, and therefore will require different levels of care and maintenance. But even low-maintenance materials like composite will need to be cleaned once in a while, so it’s important to have a regular outdoor deck cleaning cleaning routine. In addition to keeping the deck looking good, it also helps minimize the chances of developing unsightly stains that may end up difficult to remove. Keeping the deck surface clean is also ideal if you need to reapply wood stain, otherwise, it will trap the blemish underneath.
Keep the Deck Dry
Certain deck materials, like wood, are best left with minimal contact with moisture, especially if you have not recently applied a protective coating like paint or stain on it. Have a mop handy in case of spills. Inspect the foundation posts regularly for signs of moisture damage (and dry rot) by gently but firmly tapping them with a screwdriver. If you find soft spots, or if small pieces fall off, call your deck contractor for repairs.
Your deck contractor may also recommend a scheduled maintenance routine depending on the material; make sure you follow it. A gutter and roof repair routine in place helps prevent rainwater from seeping into the wood.
Not All Cleaning Products Are the Same
There are many types of cleaning products that work on or specifically designed for decks. Take the time to read the label and make sure that it should be used for your deck. Composite decks are more forgiving with cleaning products, while wood isn’t as much. The same goes for devices such as pressure washers. What cleans one type of deck material may damage another, so make sure you consult with your contractor whether you can use one on your deck.
Pechacek’s General Contracting, Roofing & Siding LLC is your leading provider of roofing, deck and gutter installation services. Give us a call at (715) 502-2006 or fill out our contact form. We serve customers in Hudson and River Falls, WI.