After installing new, shiny decking, you want to look after it and ensure that it looks beautiful for many years to come, right? Well, you’ll need to follow some maintenance tips to do that. Without further ado, let’s learn more about decking maintenance.
Common Causes of Decking Damage
Decking can be damaged due to various factors, from extreme weather conditions such as high temperatures and strong winds to heavy foot traffic. In addition to that, dirt and dust can accumulate on your decking over time. All of these things can be damaging to your deck and make it look unsightly.
What’s more, those with children and pets will know how easily they can scratch and stain a deck if proper precautions are not taken. This is why you should take extra care to protect your deck from damage.
Caring for Your Deck
To keep your deck looking good and to prevent wear, tear, and stains, you should take the following steps:
1. Cleaning: The easiest way to keep your deck looking great is to clean it regularly. You should sweep away any dirt, dust, and debris at least once a week. Even if you only have a couple of spare minutes, grab a broom and give your deck a quick once-over.
2. Staining: To protect the wood, you should also stain it or seal it every few years as this will help to protect it from the elements and keep its color looking great. In terms of finding a staining product, opt for one that’s specifically designed for outdoor use.
What if your decking is not made from wood? If your decking is made of composite material, you don’t need to worry about staining it. That said, you should still clean it regularly to get rid of any dirt, dust, and debris.
3. Protective Coverings: Next, you can also protect your deck by covering it up when it’s not in use. This is particularly important if you have kids or pets running around as it will help to prevent any scratches and stains. During winter, you should keep the deck covered with a tarp or some other type of protective cover.
4. Repairs: Lastly, be sure to take action quickly if you notice any repairs that need to be done. This could be anything from replacing a broken plank to fixing a missing screw. By taking action quickly, you can help to prevent more serious damage from occurring.
DIY Care vs Professional Help
In some cases, you may be able to take care of your deck yourself. However, if the damage is serious or you’re not confident enough to do it yourself, then you may need to call in the professionals. Thankfully, experts have all the knowledge and skills necessary to take care of your decking, so it pays to call in the pros if you want a job well done.
When visiting your property, professionals will be able to inspect your deck and advise you on the best course of action. Also, they will identify any potential issues that need to be addressed, such as rotting wood or rust.
By following the tips above and taking care of your deck, you can prevent wear, tear, and stains and ensure that your deck looks beautiful for years to come. Whether you have the amazing Outdure deck frames or any other type, you’ll soon notice a difference in the quality of your decking. Good luck!
