One of the things that most Minneapolis residents look forward to as the winter passes and the spring commences is not only the warm weather, but the subsequent arrival of what many call “deck season.” Barbecues, family gatherings, and just enjoying the warm weather are much better from the comfort of a comfortable, but most importantly, safe deck.
Most homeowners are aware that there is some maintenance involved with owning a deck. What many don’t always consider is that the deck features should be cared for nearly annually, especially as the structure gets older. The following are the best ways to not only preserve aesthetics, but also make sure your deck is structurally sound for years to come:
Post-Winter Deck Inspection
The best way to ensure peace of mind as you use your deck in the upcoming warm months is by having Snap Construction conduct a spring inspection. There are numerous things that can go wrong with a deck not only over time, but over a long winter. Some are obvious, and some have a real hidden danger lurking. An inspection can tell if the railings are secure, make sure none of the boards are rotted, ensure the posts are still up to the task of supporting the deck, and just checking that all lag bolts and other fasteners are still performing their job.
Fix Damaged Features
When it comes to a deck, if you’re in doubt, pull it out. This means any deck boards that may look damaged, rotted, warped, etc. can and should easily be replaced. This goes for spindles on railings, steps, and all the other features of a wood deck that can suffer from water damage over the winter. Better safe than sorry never rang more truer than when it comes to the security of your Minneapolis deck.
Clean and Stain
After you make sure deck boards and other items have made it through the long winter, it’s time to start prepping your area for some heavy usage in the upcoming warmer months. You’ll want to thoroughly clean the deck by first brushing off all the debris and then remove the embedded dirt, mold, etc. with a soft bristle brush. You can pressure wash a deck, but make sure to use the lowest power setting.
The next step in preserving your deck for the spring is to install a protective sealant. Transparent stains are sometimes recommended to be installed as frequently as every year while pigmented colors can be done about every 3-5. Sealing a deck will help protect it against mold and other moisture related issues.
Snap Construction Deck Inspection
This tips will help protect your Minneapolis deck after the winter. Make sure it’s still structurally sound, clean off all the grime and debris, protect the area for the upcoming spring. Finally, enjoy the area and sunshine!