To keep your deck looking its best, it needs proper maintenance. First of all, snow and ice should be removed from your balcony. Snow is heavy and can cause cracks in the deck. Moreover, it would help if you also moved your outdoor furniture to avoid discoloration and damage. Another critical step is to maintain the gutters.
While at it, sand down the deck with 80-grit paper. In addition, replace popped or protruding nails. You may also need to use longer deck screws. Be careful not to pound the nails because this may damage the wood. Instead, you can use a scrap of wood as a fulcrum to pull out protruding nails.
Regular sweeping of the deck is also essential. This prevents dirt from getting stuck in the gaps. In addition, sweeping will help remove any rock salt that may have gathered on the deck during the winter. Once this has been removed, you can scrub it using a soft brush.
You can also apply a sealant to your deck to protect it from water and the weather. This will prevent mildew from growing on your patio. It will also prevent stains from staining your home. Before applying sealant, you can use a water drop test to check whether the wood is porous enough to accept a shame. If the wood is porous, you can apply a color or paint to it. If you have a stained deck, it is essential to apply painter’s tape so you won’t stain your house. If the stain is opaque, use a paint scraper or a stiff scrub brush to remove it.
You should also check your deck’s fasteners regularly. If they are rusted, it is best to replace them. Also, it would help if you cleaned your deck regularly to prevent the growth of mold, mildew, and rot. A thorough cleaning will keep your deck looking its best for years.
If you use gray wood, you should apply a sealant every two to three years. Applying sealant is much like applying paint, so you should apply it properly to avoid peeling or chipping. Remember to keep the surface clean and dry, too, and keep the sun away from the surface. A sealant can also prevent lap marks from appearing.
If your deck has stains or other problems, use a non-chlorine bleach-based deck cleaner. This will leave the surface of your deck clean but will not harm the greenery or plants in your yard. A good quality non-chlorine sealant will also protect your deck from ultraviolet light.
Before staining it, you should also remove any sealant that you may have applied to your deck. You can do this by using a deck stripper. It is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using it.