The Best DIY Tips for Deck Maintenance
When you have a deck built for your home or business, it’s a good idea to consider the options for maintenance going forward.
Regular maintenance is crucial for any deck, regardless of the material used. And remember, maintaining your outdoor area is a year-round task. Still, spring is usually the best time to give it some extra attention. So if you've neglected your outdoor space during the colder months, now is the perfect time to start cleaning and preparing it for the upcoming season.
At Klinks, we recommend regular maintenance to keep your deck in top condition all year round. Cleaning, staining, and sealing are essential to ensure your deck lasts for years to come.
Here are some Tips and Advice to Help you Maintain your Investment.
When it comes to timber types, hardwood decking like Kwila has a natural bleeding-out process, which releases a natural dye called tannin, giving the appearance of stained timber. We suggest using a clear light oil instead of a stain to prevent the Kwila from discolouring in the future. First, spray the wood with deck bleach wash to clean it. Any brand will work, such as '30 Seconds' or 'Wet-and-Forget.' It's essential to oil Kwila twice within seven days, repeating the process annually for the next five years. Oils saturate the decking, helping it last a lifetime. We recommend using Cabots CD 50X oil for this process. Finally, remember that Kwila tends to split when nailed, so pre-drill nail holes.
Keep in mind, too, that when using Kwila, it is vital to keep it away from surfaces like concrete, as it can stain such surfaces due to the tannin bleeding out. You can reduce the effects of bleed-out by leaving it out in several downpours. If staining has occurred, you can remove it in the early stages by scrubbing it with milk.
Pine is another type of wood used at Klinks. Most of our pine decks usually don't get stained since our customers prefer them to look natural. Or they stain them themselves.
To clean pine decking, you can use a cheap cleaner like '30 Seconds' or for a Greener option try Simple Green® Deck & Fence Cleaner
Cleaning Your Deck
Regular cleaning is the first step in maintaining your deck and fence. Dirt, grime, and mildew can cause wood to deteriorate and become discoloured. Regular cleaning can prevent this type of damage.
Here are some steps to follow when cleaning your deck or fence
To clean, start with an empty area and remove any furniture, plants, or other objects that may interfere.
Clean up loose debris using a broom or leaf blower.
Then, depending on the type of material, apply a cleaning solution appropriate for your specific type of wood, and apply it to the surface using a sprayer or roller.
Give it a good scrub with a stiff-bristled brush to ensure the solution gets into the dirty or stained areas.
Then rinse with a hose or water blaster to remove the solution, ensuring you rinse it thoroughly to remove any traces of the cleaning solution.
Staining Your Deck
Once your deck is clean and dry, it's time to apply a stain. Although stains eventually fade and need reapplying, they require less preparation and don't peel or crack like paint. The stain will seep into the wood, improving its appearance and helping to protect it from the elements.
Remember, it's best to get advice from your local paint store on choosing the right stain for your type of wood.
Lay out cardboard, newspaper, or a drop cloth under the edge of your deck to catch spills and drips.
Use a brush or roller to get an even coat on the wood's surface, working in small sections and avoiding overlapping.
Sealing Your Deck
In addition to enhancing the aesthetics of your outdoor space, protecting your deck also extends its lifespan. And while stains are effective in protecting against wear and tear, sealers can offer an additional layer of protection against moisture that can cause severe damage to your deck over time.
Moisture is a significant factor that can cause wood to warp, crack, or rot, which can be detrimental to the integrity of your deck. However, even if your deck is made of this type of wood, it's still vulnerable to moisture damage. Applying a sealer can help prevent this. Sealers penetrate deep into the wood grain, forming a protective barrier against moisture. This barrier helps prevent water from seeping into the wood, which can cause it to swell, crack or rot.
Steps for Sealing Your Deck
Choose the Right Type of Sealer
When choosing a suitable sealer for your deck, it is essential to seek advice from your local paint store. They can provide valuable information on the different types of sealers available and recommend the best one for your deck's particular needs. Factors such as the age and condition of your deck, the climate in your area, and the type of wood used for your deck can all play a role in determining the best sealer for your deck.
2. Application of Your Sealer
Once you have chosen the appropriate sealer for your deck, it is vital to apply it correctly to ensure maximum protection. To start, apply the sealer in a thin coat using either a brush or a roller. It is crucial to avoid over-applying or overlapping the sealer as this can lead to uneven application and create an unsightly finish.
To apply the sealer, start from the furthest corner of the deck or fence and work towards the exit. This method will ensure that you avoid accidentally walking over any freshly sealed areas, which can cause damage and ruin the finish. Be sure to apply the sealer evenly, covering all exposed wood surfaces, including any nooks and crannies.
3. Let it Dry Before Using the Deck or Fence
After applying the sealer, it is essential to let the sealer dry completely before using the deck or fence.
The drying time will depend on the type of sealer used and the weather conditions, so it is best to check the manufacturer's instructions for recommended drying times. In addition, it is advisable to avoid foot traffic or placing furniture or potted plants on the deck until the sealer is fully dry.
These steps will help ensure the sealer has sufficient time to cure and provide the best possible protection against moisture and other elements.
4. Schedule Resealing as an Annual Task
It is worth noting that applying a sealer to your deck is not a one-time task. It would be best to reapply the sealer every few years to ensure continued protection against moisture and other elements. To ensure your deck's longevity, selecting the appropriate sealer and properly maintaining it is crucial.
By following these steps, you can create an outdoor living area that is both attractive and practical and will last for many years.
To Wrap things Up
Remember, regular maintenance of your deck is crucial to keeping it in good condition and ensuring that it lasts for years to come.
In Tauranga many people enjoy outdoor entertaining, and a stylish looking well-maintained deck is just the place to do this. Check out our article for ideas on how you can improve your deck for entertaining as well.
By following the cleaning, staining, and sealing steps outlined above, you can help protect your deck from wear and tear, moisture damage, and other elements that can cause it to deteriorate.
Regular cleaning of your deck is essential in maintaining its appearance and preventing the buildup of dirt, grime, and other debris that can lead to discolouration and damage. And staining your deck as well can provide an additional layer of protection against UV rays and other environmental factors that can cause the wood to fade and deteriorate over time.
However, even with regular cleaning and staining, moisture can penetrate the wood and cause damage over time. That’s where sealers come in, providing a barrier against moisture that can cause the wood's warping, cracking, and rotting.
Remember to seek advice from your local paint store to choose the appropriate products for your deck's specific needs and to apply them correctly for maximum effectiveness.
Lastly
At the end of the day, maintaining your deck is an ongoing process that requires attention and effort, but the benefits of doing so are well worth it. With proper maintenance, your deck can remain a beautiful and functional part of your home, providing a space for relaxing and entertaining for years to come.
Alternatively if you’re interested in an alternative to wood, read this article on composite decking.