Spring is in the air! For most homeowners, that means it’s time to refresh your outdoor deck area. But, before you start dusting off cobwebs and giving your outdoor space a thorough cleaning, be sure to inspect your deck and underdeck for any signs of seasonal damage.
Depending on your deck materials, you should check for
- Rotting
- Mildew
- Loose Nails or Railings
If your wooden deck shows signs of rotting (e.g. discoloration, soft spots, or splintering wood), contact a professional deck builder to assess and repair the damage, particularly if rotting appears on the deck’s connecting point to your home, as this may be a safety hazard.
Mildew, on the other hand, is easier to treat. Avoid using harsh chemicals like household bleach to remove it, as bleach may damage your deck’s paint and siding. Instead, try using a wood cleaner that is specifically designed to treat outdoor deck areas.
Once you’ve inspected your outdoor deck, and addressed any problem areas, you can complete your spring cleaning in five easy steps:
- Clear and Sweep
- Pressure Wash
- Clean Surface
- Reseal or Stain
- Redecorate
Make sure your deck is empty before cleaning and also give it a good sweep to remove larger residue, such as branches, leaves, or dirt.
When pressure washing your deck, always be mindful of the amount of pressure you’re applying to the wood, as high pressure may weaken the fibers of the material.
As mentioned earlier, your deck cleaner should be designed for outdoor wood areas. Oxygenated Deck Cleaners are popular, eco-friendly alternatives that easily remove mildew and grime better than household bleach. To find the best cleaning product for your deck, ask a professional deck builder for recommendations.
After successfully cleaning your deck’s surface and underdeck, apply a waterproof deck sealer for protection. Depending on the location of your deck and how much sunlight it receives, you may need to reseal your deck more often.
Now, the fun part! Once your deck is washed and its sealant has dried, you can begin redecorating your outdoor deck space with stylish furniture and accessories in time for Memorial Day weekend!
Have questions about deck restoration or repairs? Contact our deck builders at Ugly Deck. We offer full deck restoration services to ensure your deck looks its best and is safe for the entire family. We also offer maintenance free deck products to keep your deck safe from rusting, rotting, and seasonal wear.
For outdoor deck ideas, visit our Before & After photo gallery to see our collection of deck repair and transformation projects.