Decks are made from different materials. However, timber is one of the most popular. A timber deck is a construction material used to build patios and decks, and it can be manufactured with different types of wood species. As a result, the properties and appearance of the finished structure vary depending on the wood. It also means that the maintenance routine will now be the same. So, how can you maintain your timber deck??
Importantance Of Maintaining Your Decks
Adequate deck maintenance is vital to keeping your deck in good condition. For example, letting dirt and leaves stay too long on your deck can cause discolouration. Also, if you don’t check and track insect attacks early, it will lead to a full-blown infestation.
Timber decks are susceptible to rot, split, cracks, warp, insect infestation, and more. The best deck maintenance practices will ensure the safety and protect the appeal of the deck for a long period. Leon Duncan of NO1 Decks Brisbane has shared some of the tips on how to maintain your timber deck and make it last for years.?
1. Clean regularly?
The easiest way to maintain your deck is to clean it regularly. Sweep dirt and debris off your deck with a broom to improve its appearance. During the winter season, use a shovel to remove ice from the deck. The reason is that, when the snow melts, it will create moisture, which is bad for timber. Apart from this, the moisture won’t dry itself since the season is cold.?
2. Inspect for signs of mildew and rot?
Carry out routine inspections to know if you need to fix anything on your deck. For example, is there a rot? Do you need to replace the boards? Is the wood fading in certain spots? Take a step back and ask questions like these so you can detect potential problems before they are out of control.?
3. Repair damages immediately you notice them?
The essence of inspection is to find risk areas. When you do, don’t put off repairs. Replace any part as soon as you notice damage to ensure that the surface stays smooth and clean. Remember, if you don’t repair it immediately, the rot or damage can extend to other parts of the deck.?
4. Choose the right finish?
Although the type of finish mostly depends on preference, use the type that won’t be hard to maintain. The finish should last and let you avoid the stress of always worrying about when it will wear out. So, consider the pros and cons of each finish type before choosing it.?
5. Avoid trapping dirt and water?
It is okay to put planters on your deck to grow flowers and plants. However, we recommend you put something between the planters and the deck so that dirt does not build up beneath the planters, as it can cause discolouration and physical damage to the wood. You can place a welcome mat or a slab of cement under the planter to prevent water and dirt buildup.?
6. Clean and seal once every few years?
Let professionals clean and seal your deck once every few years to cater for places you could not clean yourself. Professional sealing will protect your deck from moisture, increase its lifespan, and prevent damage.?
7. Prevent trees and buses from contacting the deck?
Leave a small space between grasses and the decking to prevent weeds from growing into your porch. If you have trees growing next to the deck, trim them often to reduce the amount of mildew and grime you will have to deal with.?
8. Use only approved products?
Don’t use random cleaning products for your decking. Instead, use products that are designed and approved for deck cleaning. For example, don’t use toxic chemicals that can compromise the wood and the health of everyone around.?
9. Remove furniture from time to time?
Routinely move your furniture off the patio so you can clean the dirt underneath it. Also, reposition it every few months to allow even sun penetration and ensure that every part looks uniform. However, be careful during this process so you don’t scratch the deck with your furniture.?
10. Use a pressure washer?
Call professionals to pressure wash your deck and remove stains and dirt. If you want to do it yourself, do it carefully and with approved products.?
What to avoid in wooden deck care??
- Don’t apply paint to your deck. The reason is that paints will peel and crack in a short period and affect the deck’s appearance. Instead, use oil-based stains and approved products.?
- Don’t clean your timber deck immediately after installation. Instead, wait until after a few months before cleaning and sealing it.?
- Don’t use cheap screws and nails.??
Conclusion?
Deck maintenance is the only way to make sure your timber deck last for several decades. Keep an eye out for faults and fix them immediately they happen.?