Decks expand your living space, maximize your property, and add value to your home. They give you a place to entertain and functional outdoor living space. However, building a deck can sometimes be pretty expensive, so you’ll want to make sure you can use it for a long time. To ensure you extend the life of your deck for as long as possible, you’ll need to maintain it properly.
And there are things you should do just to make sure your deck remains to be a haven, and not a hazard. Let’s take a look at some of them.
Replacing broken off nails
If the head of the nail has broken off, this can cause injuries and hospital visits. Take a tour to make sure that there are no jagged edges present.
Replacing damaged deck boards
This is important if boards are split or warped beyond repair. Replacing damaged wood deck boards will prevent injury and tripping hazards. It’s also a means to make sure that your deck continues to look great.
Replacing or repairing weathered handrails
Handrails that are severely weathered can cause splinters and injury. For some older types of preserved wood, they contain arsenic, which is a known carcinogen. It is important to protect yourself and your family from this hazard. If sanding is necessary, it might be wise to use an industrial hand sander with a high-grit paper, and then gradually work down to a smoother paper for a finer finish. This will prevent additional splinters while preserving the piece already in place.
Sealing your wood deck
The next step is sealing your wood deck. Allow your deck to completely dry before preparing for sealant. Once dry, do one last sweep, making sure there is nothing that is hiding in corners or behind joints. Take one last assessment of the wood to make sure there are no more repairs that need to be made. At this point you should be ready to seal the deck in order to preserve it for the year.
Replacing or repairing weathered handrails
Handrails that are severely weathered can cause splinters and injury. For some older types of preserved wood, they contain arsenic, which is a known carcinogen. It is important to protect yourself and your family from this hazard. If sanding is necessary, it might be wise to use an industrial hand sander with a high-grit paper, and then gradually work down to a smoother paper for a finer finish. This will prevent additional splinters while preserving the piece already in place.
Choosing your wood deck sealant
It is best to choose a sealant that will work for your particular climate. If you have high sun, or a lot of moisture, make sure you pick a deck sealer will protect your wood deck from these extreme elements. Many of these sealants come in an assortment of colors. Follow the instructions for the sealant for best results, and consult with your local retailer on which products work best for your specific type of wood deck.