Weekend Upgrade: Refresh Your Deck

An attractive deck and patio area is a wonderful addition to any home, providing space for fun and relaxation while also adding value. Appropriate maintenance is key, however, or you’ll end up with a dingy, faded deck. If your deck looks like it needs some work, breathe new life into it with these simple tips from Handyman Connection.

Give it a good cleaning. Since most decks are exposed to the elements, an annual cleaning is generally recommended. With covered and/or screened-in decks, you may be able to get away with doing it less often. If you want your deck to look its best, however, a once-a-year cleaning is the way to go. You’ll be amazed by how much better your deck looks after a thorough cleaning!

Check for moisture damage. Your deck is exposed to a lot of moisture from rain, snow and other precipitation falling on the surface. Before doing any kind of painting or staining, first inspect the deck for signs of rot and decay, especially those parts that are in close proximity to the ground. If the rot goes down more than 1/32-inch, that particular board must be replaced to keep the rot from spreading and weakening the remainder of the deck. If you need help with this, don’t hesitate to take advantage of Handyman Connection’s deck repair service.

Rejuvenate your deck with fresh stain. Most decks require restaining every two to three years to protect against water absorption and extend the life of the deck, though some superior stains claim to last longer. Before staining, it’s essential to remove all of the old stain, or the new stain will just sit on the surface of the wood without absorbing into it. To do so, apply a liberal amount of deck stripper to the boards, leave it for about 10 seconds and then begin scraping. Remember that stripping and staining should be done on a day that’s cloudy and somewhat cool to reduce the evaporation rate of the products.

Hire a Professional Craftsman for Your Deck Project

Need some help with that deck, but not sure who to call? If you’re wondering, “How do I find a handyman in my area?” Handyman Connection has the answer. To be connected with one of our many experienced craftsmen, give us a call today at 1-800-88-HANDY.