You get new decking installed and it looks amazing for a little while. Then you have friends and family over. You use chairs and other furniture. It’s raining. And decking can just lose its shine. The initial excitement of getting decking is dampened because it just doesn’t look as good as it did at the start. You don’t need to think about new decking already because there are some things you can do to bring it back to life. From Outdure USA to other solutions, you can keep your decking clean.
There’s no better way to start a guide about maintaining anything than mentioning prevention. Regularly sweeping away debris and dirt is the secret to keeping stains and mildew at bay. And remember, when your furniture is not in the mood for decking, give it some space to prevent scratches and indentations. It’s all about keeping that surface sparkling and your decking happy. Take a couple of small prevention steps and you’ll keep your decking looking amazing for longer.
We know it doesn’t sound like the most amazing of ideas when all you want to do on a Sunday is spend time with family, but cleaning helps. When it comes to deck cleaning, don’t settle for just any cleaner. Find one that’s decked out for your specific material. Regular cleaning not only keeps dirt and stains at bay but also prevents long-term damage from taking a permanent seat.
Another top tip is to keep an eye on your decking – we don’t mean from the window as another bird leaves a gift. Stand on your deck and look at it closely. Get on your hands and knees and have a proper look. Regularly inspecting your decking is like being a detective, catching potential issues before they turn into major problems. Keep an eye out for signs of rotting, warping, or rebellious loose boards. And watch out for those mischievous protruding nails or screws that could cause some unexpected pain. Be quick to repair or replace any damaged boards to maintain deck safety and keep the fun flowing.
Just like a good sunscreen protects your skin, periodic refinishing shields your decking from the elements. Give it some TLC by sanding it down and slathering it on a fresh coat of sealant or stain. Remember to choose a finish that suits your decking material and follow the manufacturer’s instructions, because we all know decks deserve some love too. The right finish will do a couple of things because it will make your decking look amazing and it will also make it last longer. You will thank your younger self in the future.
Lastly, let’s not neglect the unsung hero beneath your decking – the supporting structure. Give it some TLC by checking for signs of rotting or shifting. Swift repairs are key to keeping your decking safe and sound. After all, a solid structure guarantees a deck that stands the test of time. Decking is only as good as the support underneath so don’t forget this important component.
Follow these tips and feel pride rather than embarrassment when your friends come over!