Wooden decks make a beautiful addition to any landscape design. They provide a space to entertain friends and family or simply relax with a good book and cup of coffee. Ensure your wooden deck lasts as long as it should with these maintenance tips.

Top 5 Tips for Preserving a Wooden Deck

1. Clean It Regularly

Clean the wooden deck about every two weeks to keep it free of dirt, grime, mold and mildew, and leaf and twig debris. Allowing the deck to get dirty not only compromises the landscape design, but it also affects the quality of the wood. Leaf piles, for example, create moisture that leads to premature rot, while mold and mildew eat away at wood because it is an organic material. Pour a recommended cleanser into a garden sprayer to keep the deck looking good. Do not let snow linger on the deck either, as it will keep the wood saturated and therefore susceptible to mold and rot.

2. Inspect It Twice a Year

Inspect the deck in the spring and fall for ousted nails, rot, moisture in the joints, and insect damage such as carpenter bee holes. Schedule repairs as necessary and ensure all water is draining properly to prevent rot that compromises the deck’s structural integrity.

3. Apply Stain or Paint

Apply a waterproof stain or paint about every five years to shield your investment from the elements. High-quality deck paints and stains protect the deck from harsh UV rays, rain, and insects such as termites and carpenter bees. Follow the manufacturer instructions for best results.

4. Use a Pressure Washer for Serious Stains

Blast away serious grime or mold stains with a pressure washer. Wear the appropriate protective gear such as gloves and goggles and avoid using the tool too close to the wood because the force of the water can cause damage. Again, refer to the manufacturer instructions so you use the power washer correctly.

5. Replace Rotted Boards

Take a picture of your chosen paint or stain so you know which product to buy if you need to replace one or more of the deck boards. Knowing what paint or stain you used helps avoid mismatched boards to maintain a uniform appearance.

Stunning landscape designs form the foundation of JK Landscape Construction. Proudly serving Clearwater, MN, and the surrounding areas for over 10 years, this landscaping company offers a wide variety of customized services to turn your property into a unique oasis. Call (320) 558-4445 today to get started or learn more about landscape design products and services online. Follow the Twitter feed for a steady stream of tips and ideas.