When you have a well maintained deck, it will improve aesthetics and function of your outdoor space. This will be a space for relaxation, entertaining, and enjoying the view outdoors. But when the deck is exposed to the elements over time, it can be subjected to wear and tear so you have to ensure proper maintenance.
You can ask Prestige decking contractors on how best to clean and maintain their decking. You need to have regular cleaning so that build-up of dirt, mould, and mildew can be prevented. You will need to sweep the deck frequency so that leaves, dirt, and debris can be removed. A pressure washer on a low setting or agarden hose can be used to wash the deck. You can use a deck cleaner for a deep clean. This can also be achieved with a mixture of mild soap and water. You can use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the deck and this will remove stubborn stains. You should not be using harsh chemicals to clean the deck as this will damage the decking material. You have to inspect the decking from time to time so that you can identify potential problems early. This will allow you to address the issues before they escalate.
When inspecting the deck,
You should be looking for signs of rot, loose boards, cracks, and splinters. Make sure you check the area where the deck meets the house. All the screws, nails, and bolts should be tightened. If the fasteners are loose, the boards can shift. This will weaken the deck structure and create a trip hazard as well. Any damaged or rotting boards should be replaced right away. This will prevent the damage from spreading. You can use the same time of decking material so that there is consistency in the design. You will need to seal and stain the deck if this is a wooden deck so that it can be protected from moisture, UV rays, and other environmental factors. You have to choose the right deck sealant or stain. You will find that oil based products can penetrate wood better. But it is easier to clean up water-based products.
You have to prevent water from damaging the deck
And this has to be achieved with proper drainage. This will prevent water from pooling on the surface. You can adjust the deck slope so that water runoff can be encouraged. You will need to have flashing in the area where the deck is attached to the house. This way, water will not seep into the structure. You can protect your home from water damage when you do this. You have to use water-resistant materials such as pressure-treated wood and composite decking so that they can withstand moisture better. To protect against sunlight exposure, you can have umbrellas, awnings, or pergolas installed so that the deck is shaded. It will also create a more comfortable outdoor space. You will be able to use it during the day and enjoy a cool breeze.
