Getting Your Deck Ready For Summer

Does your deck look as dreary as the winter landscape? Does it lack the comforting glow of well-cared-for wood and good memories? If so, your deck may not be as ready for summer as you are.

For decks that lack a special luster, or ones that maybe have had a little too much love, a good cleaning and re-staining should go a long way in bringing your deck back to life. However, before starting on a deck refresh, first look for the following common problem areas:

Fix Loose Boards or Railings

Walk around on your deck and also observe it from the ground level. Are there spongy boards that sag when you stand on them? Do you hear creaks when you step on certain areas? If so, you may want to look at the deck’s structure. It may be a loose board you can replace, or it could be an indicator of a more comprehensive problem, such as insect infestation. Consider consulting a professional to determine the cause of loose boards and saggy areas if you are unsure.

Deck railings and posts should be checked as well. A weakened railing may not be obvious until a guest leans on it and it moves. Take the time to check for loose posts and railings carefully, and that includes those along the stairs. Although they do not need to meet the same weight requirements as the deck boards, the railings and posts should support someone who grabs them to prevent a fall. Many times, loose boards and railings can easily be fixed or replaced at low cost and without the need for a full rehab.

Repair and Fill Cracks

Small cracks are to be expected as wood expands and contracts with the seasons. If those small cracks become larger, it may be time to replace the entire board, especially if the crack is around a nail or fastener.

Changes in the size or frequency of cracks can indicate a weakening of the board. It may be an early indicator of a more significant structural problem. If you aren’t sure what the changes may indicate, you should contact a professional.

Removing Mold or Mildew Buildup

Mildew can turn a deck green, which can make it look old and neglected; however, mold is a different story. It can be green, black, purple, orange, or white. Since it’s a living organism, it needs food, which decks conveniently provide. If not removed, mold will continue to feed until the wood rots and structural damage occurs.

Mold spores can also cause respiratory concerns when released into the air. The mossy-looking mold can become slippery and become a hazard when walking up and down stairs or across a deck platform. Cleaning the wood with specialty cleaners will usually take care of the problem.

Here are a few great natural homemade mold cleaning recipes to try as well:

White Vinegar and Tea Tree Oil

• You will want to fill a spray bottle with undiluted white vinegar straight from the container (available at most grocery stores) and then add five to ten drops of tea tree oil
• Shake well to combine
• Spray the affected moldy areas and let sit for at least ten minutes to one hour
• Wipe away the area with a clean cloth or towel

Baking Soda Mixture Recipe

• Combine one cup baking soda with one cup warm water in a bowl
• Using your hands (you can put gloves on first if you’d like), scoop the pasty mixture out and spread a thick coating over the moldy area
• Let stand for 30 to 60 minutes
• Wipe off the paste and then spray it down with a spray bottle filled with water and two tablespoons of liquid soap
• Wipe up until dry with a cloth or towel 

Re-Stain The Deck

Once you have addressed any lingering structural or mold issues, you’re ready to clean and re-stain your deck using the following steps as a guide.

1. If your deck has little to no existing stain, clean it with a deck cleaner. Be sure to protect the area around the deck from cleaning chemicals by placing plastic over plants, pavers, and walls.
2. If your deck has some remaining stain or sealant, remove it first before applying a new stain. Be sure to test the surfaces to ensure that all existing stain and sealant are removed prior to application.
3. Re-stain your old deck with a pigmented stain to provide extra protection from UV rays. Pigmented stain also gives old decks a more uniform finish.

Before re-staining your deck make sure the surface is completely dry and free of debris. The stain will not adhere to wet surfaces and be sure to follow the product guide for application instructions including cure times.

Looking for a brush? RoofingDirect.com carries a wide selection of quality brushes to help you get your job done.

Now, Relax…

With your deck back to its original (or new) finish, you can relax and start your summer off right. In the fall, remembering to perform winterization maintenance will save you time next year and help ensure your deck has a long and useful life. Enjoy!