Wrinkles, drips, chipping, pilling? Check out the signs of decay in your wood deck. Wood decks can accumulate these problems as they age due to their structure and porous nature. Fortunately, there are a variety of options available that can be implemented immediately or which can be delayed until the last minute. Read on for some tips on how you could keep your wood deck healthy and top-notch for years to come.
9 Tips For Wood Deck Maintenance
1. Clean and Polish the Deck: One of the most important things to keep your deck looking its best is to clean it regularly. This includes removing any dirt, leaves, or debris accumulated over time. If the wood is stained or has any other damage, it will need to be treated first before cleaning occurs. After cleaning, apply a sealant such as a deck stain or protective sealant to help protect the wood from further damage and fading.
2. Add Weatherproofing: Another critical step in keeping your deck in good condition is adding weatherproofing materials such as tarps or roofing membranes. This will help prevent water and moisture from damaging the deck and keep it warm in cold weather.
3. Maintain Railings and Balusters: Wooden railings and balusters can become brittle over time if not properly maintained. If necessary, check for cracks and repairs, then apply a sealant or protective coating to keep the wood looking its best.
4. Clean and Polish the Stiles: Wooden stiles can also suffer from damage over time if not cleaned and treated correctly. Check for any rot or decay, then clean and apply a sealant to protect the wood from moisture and UV exposure.
5. Check for signs of trouble: One of the most important things to do when maintaining a wood deck is to check for signs of trouble. This includes looking for wrinkles, drips, chipping and pilling. If you notice any of these issues, it is essential to take action right away to prevent them from worsening and ruining your deck.
6 Regularly clean and seal the deck: Another critical step in keeping a wood deck healthy is the cleaning and closing it. This will help prevent moisture and rot from taking hold and damaging the deck over time. Use a quality sealant that will protect the wood while avoiding water damage.
7. Install a railing system: If you have children or pets, it is essential to install a railing system around your deck so that they don’t fall off or get hurt in any accidents. Railing systems can also help keep dogs from climbing up onto the deck and getting into trouble.
8. Repair any cracks or damage: If you notice any cracks or damage on your deck, it is essential to take action to prevent it from worsening and ruining the deck. This may include repairing the crack or damage using a sealant and wood filler or replacing the entire deck.
9. Use a wood cleaner – If you decide to mix up some of the logs with the wood, don’t worry! You can use a wood cleaner to get rid of any stains or dirt. Just be sure to test it on a small area first.