After a summer of enjoying your outdoor space and deck, it’s time to start to think about winterizing it to keep the wood protected and ready for next year. Checking off a few simple tasks while it’s still warm out will prolong the life of your deck, giving you many more years of enjoyment to look forward to.

Winterize Your Wood Deck in 5 Steps

1. Remove Debris

Leaves, twigs, and natural debris can trap water and moisture, causing wood rot and uneven wear and tear. Therefore, it’s important to sweep your deck regularly—including when it snows. A clear deck is more than just aesthetically pleasing; it can save you from some costly repair work down the line.

2. Clean Thoroughly

After a long summer of use, your deck could use a good scrub to restore it to its former glory. This will also help get rid of any mold or mildew that may have accumulated. If you would rather use a power cleaner to take care of the job quickly, make sure to call for professional help. If misused, the pressurized water can damage your wood.

3. Refinish the Wood

Staining your deck does more than make it look bright and new—it also helps seal your wood against water damage. Visually, you can tell if your deck needs refinishing if the color has started to fade. If you’re not sure, you can test the stain by dripping some water onto the wood; if the drops pool on top, you’ll know the seal is still strong. However, if the water seeps into the wood, it’s time to refinish.

4. Make Needed Repairs

The end of the summer is an excellent time to catch up on any repairs that have escaped your attention. Fixing them now means they won’t become worse under inclement weather conditions. In other words, an afternoon of work now can save you from a much bigger job later.

5. Pack Away Furniture

Garden furniture can pin leaves and debris underneath, trapping moisture and expediting erosion of the wood below. If you can, remove the furniture from your deck and store it somewhere dry such as a garage, shed, or outbuilding. If that’s not possible, you can at least pack away your planters.

If you live in Stayton, OR, you can count on Stayton Builders Mart for your building supplies. Whether you’re running a full construction site, picking up some items for a home DIY project, or simply stocking up on supplies, they have what you need. If you’re looking for professional insight, their experienced team can help ensure you have the right products and quantities for your task. Call (503) 769-7118 for a quote, or visit their website for more information. For more building and repair tips from the experts, follow them on Facebook.