Summer is the best time to sit on your deck, hanging out with family and friends and enjoying your favorite beverage. For those very reasons it is important that you keep your deck looking as nice as possible. As your deck is constantly exposed to the elements it is not always easy to maintain a stunning deck, but following the tips below will get you started in the right direction:
Avoid buildup of moisture. Standing water will lead to wood decay and stains. Make sure that water is able to drain freely from your deck. It’s important that the gaps between the boards are free from dirt and other debris so that the water can get through. Install drainage vents if you are still having problems with standing water.
Protect against water stains. There are usually drain holes on the bottom of most pots. Setting the pot or planter on the deck surface will leave a stain and might promote wood decay since the moisture between the deck and the pot can’t evaporate.
Avoid spilling candle wax. Candle wax buildup not only looks bad, it can also have some degenerative effects on the quality of your deck. When using candles, you should put them on a level area to avoid spills. Place a container under the candle. If you do have a spill on your deck, use a putty knife to remove the bulk of the wax. You can apply hot soapy water and blot it up.
Keep pests and birds away. Woodpeckers can be problematic for anything made of wood. Other birds will often drop little, not-so-nice surprises onto your deck. Try placing a plastic owl or rubber snake on your deck to frighten these winged nuisances away.
