The winter season means that your home will be exposed once again to very low temperatures and, in some regions, plenty of moisture. One of the parts of your home that needs some preparation to survive the wet and cold season is the deck, primarily if it’s made of wood.
As a recognized remodeling company, we know a thing or two about ensuring your deck’s safety and continued service and beauty. Here are some ideas for keeping it safe throughout the season.
Cleaning
Before the temperatures begin to drop, you should clean your deck. This is not just about sweeping dust and leaves off it, though that is the beginning. Make sure to remove as much dirt and debris as possible with a broom that doesn’t cause any abrasion to the wood.
Next, spray your deck with a garden hose to remove deep-seated dirt between the floorboards. A garden hose is fine, especially if you’re being careful, but if your deck is especially dirty a power washer is a better option. Keep your setting on low or medium power, and don’t spray too close to the wood to avoid damaging it. If you want to bleach the wood, don’t overdo it so your deck doesn’t turn yellow over time. After applying a manufacturer-recommended wood treatment, let it soak for 15 minutes before removing the product with water. Allow the wood to dry for 24 hours.
Stripping
This doesn’t apply to all decks. You should strip only if there are parts with deteriorated paint or stain. The point of stripping is to make sure the color of the wood is consistent, and the wood is ready to absorb the sealant, which is the next step.
Sealing
To properly protect your wood deck from the punishments brought on by winter, it needs a water-repellent sealant. After the first two steps, apply a good-quality, manufacturer-recommended sealant. The best way to do this evenly is to use a paint sprayer. Cover the deck with the sealant, and let it dry before using it or placing any furniture. It’s advisable to spray on a day that’s not windy.
There is a way to avoid all the work that comes with a wood deck, and that is to choose a composite deck from your favorite home improvement company instead. Composite can mimic the look of wood without all the upkeep that real wood demands.
At Up and Above Contractors, we can help you choose the perfect deck for your home. Call us today at (973) 300-0636, of fill out our contact form. We can help you in Sparta, Hackettstown and Wantage, NJ.