Maintaining your new or existing deck is the best way to make sure that it provides you with many happy memories. We have put together the following list of simple tips to help you maintain your deck.
Tools
Like Kryptonite is to Superman, so are metal tools to a deck. If you need to remove snow, dirt, or leaves, use a plastic or soft bristle brush. Metal tools can damage sealant or stain on your wooden deck.
Yearly Scrubbing
Rain, Snow, Dirt, and Animals all take their toll on your wooden deck. Even if you have used a sealant or stain, it is still important that you clean your deck regularly. Many products are available with specialized ingratiates and detergents to help you clean your wood deck. These products will also help enhance the natural wood grain.
Damaged Wood
Existing decks need a little more TLC for obvious reasons. Drive any protruding nails flush with the surface of the board or replace them with deck screws. Repair or replace boards that show signs of decay.
Splinters
Sand down any rough spots to keep you from getting splinters. Pay close attention to railings; your hands will thank you!
Stain or Sealer
There are many stains and sealers raging from clear to solid colour on the market. Solid colour stains hide the grain while transparent and semi-transparent stains let the natural wood grain show through. Your local hardware store should have samples so you can see the difference. Just remember that the stain will look different on pressure treated then it does on cedar wood.
These few helpful tips will ensure that your deck provides you with many years of happy memories.