Your Autumn Deck Maintenance Checklist

It’s always hard to come to terms with the parting of the Summer sun, yet this weekend marks the beginning of Fall whether we like it or not. As people everywhere are wrapping up household projects before the unpredictable and inevitable cold weather hits, many homeowners quickly recognize the harsh reality that there simply never seems to be enough time to get it all done. However, a bit of preseason care can go a long way in protecting the livelihood of a deck.

Now is the time to consider a summer full of barbeques, fresh garden tomatoes and entertaining a success and take some preventative measures to ensure a healthy deck for years to come.

Clear It Off

The very first step is to clear all potted plants and furniture off of the deck. For households with a resident “grill master,” this task can be somewhat disheartening when the barbeque is moved from its rightful place. Typically, grease build-up occurs gathers beneath the grill. The degree of which varies depending on the frequency of use throughout the summer. While over time this can cause discoloration and permanent marks, much of the mess/damage can be lessened by placing a rubber mat below the area where grease collects.

It’s important to note that when moving items be sure to avoid sliding them, as this can cause scratching and splintering of the deck.

Inspect

Before cleaning it’s crucial to inspect the deck for any potential hazards. Summers are typically the time for a lot of projects, meaning that there could be nails and other dangerous items on the deck to beware of.

Along with general safety, it’s important to get an idea of what cleaning challenges await. Although this particular summer hasn’t brought much rain, there may still be moisture and dirt trapped underneath potted plants and other items. Carefully inspect the deck for dirt, mildew, and pollen buildup that may have accumulated on the deck surface over the season.

Clean it the Right Way

Sweep all the loose dirt and leaves from the deck. Then comes the more detailed cleaning. Use small amount of deck cleaning product and hot water to mop each area followed by a light rinse with a hose. It’s vital to clean between the planks and boards of any surfaces as needed. This allows airflow and draining to prevent standing water and limit moisture on the deck throughout the upcoming wet seasons.

Maintenance

Ultimately, diligent sweeping throughout Fall is going to benefit the deck year round. Arguably, one of the worst tasks during springtime deck prep, is removing wet crushed leaves and dirt from areas they have gathered during the fall. A quick sweep to clear the leaves now and then can dramatically reduce the amount of time spring preparation takes, reduce the amount of moisture collected and protect the livelihood of the deck.

Because the time for moderate weather running short, consider taking advantage of the comprehensive deck maintenance solutions offered by Matthews Painting. Whatever stage of seasonal preparation, contact Matthews Painting for further helpful tips and services.