In this blog post, we'll be covering deck maintenance that can keep your outdoor space looking fabulous for years to come. We've got you covered with tips on regular care and seasonal upkeep, so your deck stays in top shape, remaining beautiful, sturdy, and ready for you to enjoy.
Cleaning Your Deck
Sweeping your deck might be more important than you think. Fallen leaves and dirt that sit for too long can lead to mold, wood rot, and discoloration.
Cleaner can make a big difference, but you'll need to be careful on which ones you use, how often you use them, and how you apply them. Here are some tips for choosing a cleaner that won't hurt you or your deck.
#1 Tip: Never mix ammonia-based ingredients with bleach. Doing this creates a toxic gas known as chloramine, which irritates your respiratory system.
#2 Tip: DO NOT use Chlorine Bleach on your deck! It will strip your deck of its color, and overall, the results are horrendous.
#3 Tip: It is fine to use Oxygen Bleach on your deck. It is safe and helps to remove mold.
#4 Tip: For extremely stubborn stains, use Borate (also known as Borax).
To avoid using harsh chemicals that you can't trust on your deck, there are two simple ingredients you probably have in your kitchen cupboard that will clean your deck very efficiently: vinegar and baking soda!
Trex Select decking has a wonderful recipe for an efficient and harmless deck cleaner:
1 cup of vinegar
1 gallon warm water
4+ boxes of baking soda (depending on your deck size).
Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, follow these 4 easy steps:
Mix together the water and vinegar and apply a layer over the decking.
Sprinkle on a layer of baking soda.
Scrub over all the boards using a scrub brush. Add more vinegar solution if necessary.
Rinse with water.
Power washing your deck is another good method of cleaning, but you'll need to be careful when you do it. You'll want to have your pressure washer at a low to medium setting to avoid damaging the wood. Keep your nozzle at least a foot away from the deck. It is not recommended to power wash your deck often; it is typically recommended to do only once a year.
Simple and Fast Maintenance
While you may not have the time to set aside for a big project such as staining or finishing your deck, we're sharing a few little things you can do right now to maintain the quality of your deck.
#1 Replace loose or rusted nails.
#2 Move furniture or grills around every so often to avoid creating shade patterns on your deck.
#3 Trim plants and trees to be about one foot from your deck to avoid moisture and sap damage.
#4 Replace boards as needed. If you notice warping or rot in one board, don't put it off, replace it soon!
Some decks that have a lot of rusty nails, and loose boards, or large patches of mold may be too far gone! Zion Builders replaces old decks with new decks, and we can use Trex composite decking to ensure that you don't have to worry about maintenance anymore!
Stains, Sealers, Finishes
As a general rule, your deck should be stained every 2-3 years, and it should be sealed every 1-3 years. Staining and sealing your deck doesn't have to be challenging. If you break it up, it can be easily achievable. Home Depot has a great step-by-step process:
Alternative Options
This is certainly all sounding like a lot. While deck maintenance doesn't have to be hard, it can certainly be time-consuming. Still, having a deck is worth it. But what if you could have the wonderful joys and perks that come with owning a deck - without the maintenance? Well... the solution is composite decking!
Composed of a mix of recycled wood fibers and high-quality synthetic materials, composite decking offers the best of both worlds.
This innovative material is engineered to resist the pitfalls of traditional wood decking, such as rot, splintering, and insect damage, making it exceptionally low maintenance. Its resistance to fading, staining, and warping ensures a long-lasting and vibrant appearance, even under the harshest weather conditions!
Zion Builders work with Trex Select Decking as Platinum Level Builders! Trex is company that manufactures composite decks made from a blend of 95% recycled plastic film and reclaimed sawdust. Their decks do not warp, rot, splinter, fade, stain, or require any seasonal staining and sealing! When you build with us, you can have your own beautiful composite decking!
Conclusion
As we conclude this journey through the realms of deck maintenance, may your outdoor sanctuary remain a symbol of timeless elegance. Follow our guide to effortless maintenance, and let your deck continue to be a source of joy, relaxation, and cherished moments for years to come. Stay tuned for more tips, tricks, and insights on preserving the beauty of your outdoor haven. 🌿✨🛠️