Deck Maintenance Tips for the End of Summer

During the course of a fun-filled Canadian summer, a deck can experience a lot of wear and tear. This is good because it means you and your loved ones are using it and getting outside. It does mean, however, that you need to think about deck repair services in Winnipeg before it gets too cold. Once the deck is covered in snow it will be impossible to repair until next Spring, By that point, a lot of damage may have set in that will be difficult to remedy later. Think about these four aspects of keeping your deck in tip-top shape. 

1. Check for Cracks and Chips

There is a lot of heat fluctuation during the summer, and this causes the wood of your deck to expand and contract. If the wood is old or doesn’t have enough space to shift comfortably, it will crack or chip. These injuries, of course, also occur when something is dropped directly onto the deck. Even something as innocent as a cooler or patio chair being set down too abruptly can crack or chip the wood. 

If this happens, check the structural integrity of the wood. If it is not in a load-bearing area, or unlikely to cause someone to fall or hurt themselves, use putty or caulk to fill the crack and repaint the area. If there is a structural issue, consider calling a professional for an inspection and estimate of the repairs needed. You may need to replace a few boards to make sure your deck works properly next year. 

2. Fill Scratches and Gashes

Furniture, coolers, grills, and sports equipment can all wreak havoc on the surface of a deck. Most scratches are only on the surface and can be remedied with a fresh coat of polyurethane or stain. But if the scratch is deep, water will get into the wood, causing rot and mildew. This softens the wood and creates a risk of structural collapse or personal injury. 

3. Repair Heat Damage

Excess heat during the summer dries out the wood of your deck, which can create a brittleness or easy breakage. The signs of heat damage are discolouration, fading, or warping of the planks. There is no easy fix for this, other than replacing the boards individually or calling a professional for deck installation in Winnipeg. We can recommend a partial replacement, a timeline of repairs, or a full remodel. 

4. Clean It Up

Use a garden hose and mild soap to remove any stains from summer fun. If necessary, use a long-handled scrub brush to take care of sticky spots, spills, bird droppings, and built-up coatings of pollen or pet dander. Pressure washers are popular, but they can be too powerful for some softwoods, and they can remove the top layer of sealant without you realizing it. When this sealant is gone, the wood may look clean, but it is much more susceptible to weather and critters over time. You can also use a thin, narrow broom to clean between the slats of the deck, removing cobwebs, egg nests, leaves, and any other hidden debris you want to take care of. 

Your Source for Expert Deck Repair Services in Winnipeg

Trust Handyman Connection for all the TLC your deck may need. Seasonal deck services, refinishing, joist reinforcement, and railing installation are just a few of our professional services. Visit our website for a free project estimate and consultation. All of our work is guaranteed in writing, and we have been consistently ranked as a Top Ten Handyman Company by industry publications. We routinely earn five-star reviews from our satisfied customers.