Having an outdoor area attached to your house can only mean two things: you have a beautiful and entertaining escape that your family and your guests will love…and you have to take care of it to keep it looking sharp. Anyone who has a deck knows how much work they are to keep in tip top shape. As strong as your deck’s wood surface is, it can also be fragile. You have to take care of it with regular maintenance and cleanings. This is even more true when dealing with the effects of water on a concrete pool deck. You have to ensure that everything is waterproofed properly as well, to avoid a potentially costly leak. Deck waterproofing is only one of the many things you have to do when maintaining your deck. Here is our list of the top things to do to keep your deck in shape, for the summer and all year long.
Inspect the Deck
Regularly walk around your deck and look for cracks or extra dry areas. Also make sure to look for overly wet areas, which could show signs of a water leak. If you neglect this there may be a small issue that turns into a large one because you didn’t catch it in time. The key is to understand what you’re looking for and what that issue can cause.
Annual Cleanings
Once a year you must give your deck a deep cleaning. Don’t go overboard with the power washer but make sure to get every spot. You’ll want to use the best products possible so as to not damage the wood. And only use the power washer on a low setting to make sure you aren’t pulling any of the finish off of the wood.
Seal After Sanding
When deep cleaning your deck you’ll have to sand it lightly to keep the wood looking fresh and also functional. It is necessary to sand your deck before you seal it with a clear sealer which lasts longer. It can take up to 48 hours for your deck to dry fully, so make sure to check the forecast for clear days before you begin your project.
Replace Damaged Boards
If while you’re doing your routine inspection you notice a board to be damaged beyond repair, you must replace it as soon as possible. A loose or damaged board could cause a water leak which would cause the entire deck to need a deck waterproofing. Simply replace the damaged board with a new piece and clean the deck so that everything matches.
Hire the Pros
After you’ve done all these at-home tasks, make sure you call in the pros for an annual deck inspection. They’ll be able to see things you won’t, relative to the deck’s overall longevity, strength and safety. They’ll also give you the guidance to know the best waterproofing methods for your own situation.
When you’re in need of a deck waterproofing, an inspection or anything in between — make sure to call the experts at WICR. Our professionals have decades of experience and are ready to deliver our unparalleled expertise whenever you need. So you can get back to what truly matters, having outdoor fun with your family, for the long run.
