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Home Maintenance>Decking / November 29, 2023
Decks are the perfect place for hosting a party, grilling lunch on the barbecue, or just relaxing after a long day at work. These outdoor areas can even boost your home’s value since they offer additional living space. Of course, to get the most out of your deck, you need to take care of it. That’s why finding professional deck maintenance in Plano is so important.
While their location is one of their best features, decks can still suffer under the elements. Even a solidly built structure made of high-quality material can degrade after months under the sun, wind, and rain. Regular maintenance allows you to spot problems before they become big and expensive.
For the best deck maintenance services, you should look for a professional carpenter. Wood is a unique building material, as it swells and shrinks with temperature and humidity. Over time, boards can warp, leading to large gaps and uneven surfaces. A handyman in Plano understands the intricacies of hardwood, including the variances between the different species, allowing for better repair services.
Experts advise scheduling deck maintenance at least once a year, though you should call between appointments if you notice any of the following:
Annual maintenance is also an excellent opportunity to upgrade your deck and tailor it to your evolving needs.
Rusted nails and other hardware aren’t just ugly — they can pose a hazard. Degraded bolts and nails are more prone to breaking, undermining your deck’s stability. Since most decks are at least a few inches off the ground, there can be serious consequences if a board buckles while someone walks over it.
You should also replace boards that have seen better days. Scratches and dents aren’t too big a deal — you can ask your handyman to sand out these cosmetic defects during your planned deck maintenance. However, cracks are a sign of a deeper issue and require replacement. The nice thing about hardwood decks is that your contractor doesn’t have to redo the entire floor. Instead, the handyman team can just replace the affected boards, saving time and money.
A good wash removes built-up grime, allowing you to appreciate the beautiful wood underneath. It’s also an excellent way to prepare the deck for painting or sealing.
Speaking of sealing, you should schedule resealing every one to three years. Wood readily absorbs moisture, which can lead to several issues:
Exposure to ultraviolet radiation is also an issue, as the rays can break down wood on a molecular level. Fortunately, a sealant creates a barrier between the wood and the elements, protecting your deck from rain and shine.
Skirting is essential if your deck is over 6 inches off the ground. The dark nooks under decks are perfect nesting places for wildlife, who may make themselves at home by nibbling on support beams. Getting rid of pests can be messy and expensive, so be proactive and install skirting as part of your regular deck maintenance.
Railings are also crucial for safety, as they prevent people from falling and injuring themselves. Rails are especially important if you have small children or pets who may not realize the danger.
Finding deck maintenance may be easier than you think. Handyman Connection employs a variety of home improvement professionals, including carpenters with experience repairing and replacing decks. Every professional undergoes a background check to ensure customer safety, and all team members have years of training under their belts. To request an estimate, call or reach out via the Handyman Connection website.