If you have a wood deck then this post is for you! Most people agree that a wood deck is a beautiful addition to any home, and they are right. Whether it is painted or stained to reveal the lovely natural grain of the wood, a deck adds an entirely new dimension to a home. Adventurous homeowners implement features such as a gazebo, a pergola, a screened area, or built-in seating into their deck. Some choose to build immaculate multi-level decks that really impress the neighborhood. Look at our gallery of past projects to see some of the decks we’ve built over time.
When you have a wood deck there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you want to be sure to thoroughly wash your deck each year, however, very careful with power washing it as it can damage the wood and the finish. This will keep dirt from being ground into the wood as people walk across it. It will also get the wood ready for when you are ready to seal it with a stain or a waterproof sealant. As you clean your wooden deck you will also remove any built up debris and leaves which can be a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and rot.
By adding a stain or a waterproof sealant to your wood decking you extend the life of the wood. This means you won’t have to replace ugly boards nearly as often. The typical stain lasts about 1 – 3 years if you take care of it and the hot Georgia sun isn’t beating down on it all the time. It is a good idea to reseal your deck with stain or waterproof sealant every few years to be sure the wood is protected against the elements.
A waterproof sealant is a fantastic idea to keep moisture from getting into your wood. Anyone who knows about wood knows when moisture and wood mix, it’s not a good thing. In fact it can be almost as bad as if termites and your wood go together. Bad combination to say the least!
Now-a-days you can find finishes for your deck that also contain UV inhibitors to help protect your wood deck from fading or drying out in the sun. If your deck dries out it can be more susceptible to water retention which will make it rot more quickly.
Inspect your deck regularly for signs of wear or damage. Look at the supporting beams underneath to make sure there are no problems with nails or screws. Try fastening them back down and if that does not work, pick up a few longer nails or screws at your local hardware store to secure the boards.
Having a wood deck is a wonderful idea that can enhance the look of your home and give your family a nice place to gather for entertainment or simply for relaxation, but you must remember like anything else in life you have to take care of it so it will last years. A properly cared for deck could last many years.