Prepping your deck in the fall will protect it from harsh weather and have it ready for spring.
Cool afternoons and crisp evenings mean there is still plenty of time to enjoy the outdoors on your deck. It is also an ideal time to prepare your deck for winter. Thorough cleaning is essential this season since plenty of leaves and twigs will fall on your deck. Not only is the weather ideal for outdoor home maintenance, but prepping your deck in the fall will protect it from harsh weather and have it ready for spring. Keep reading for some more deck maintenance tips.
Clear Leaves and Debris
It is important to remove leaves, branches, and other debris immediately. Don’t wait until debris accumulates in your backyard before you clear it. The last thing you want is plant matter stuck on your deck boards. When this happens, the wood decays, decreasing its lifespan. If you skip this step when repairing your deck, your deck will be prone to mold and rot.
Inspect the Structure
Another essential thing you can do is check your deck for loose nails, peeling membranes, shaky railings, rotting or cracked boards, and more. Getting a professional deck inspection can rule out any issues and give you peace of mind if you are uncertain about what to look for. You will also get a clear answer on what maintenance you need to do. Don’t let your deck go beyond repair to the point of it becoming a hazard.
Seal or Clean Your Deck
You can reseal or wash your deck depending on your deck material. If you have a wood deck, you can maintain it by applying a layer of sealant. If your deck absorbs water, it needs another coat of waterproof sealant. The wood must be completely dry before staining or sealing. For composite and vinyl decks, you simply need to wash off dirt using a hose. Be sure to remove all of those summer stains and any dirt buildup.
These tips will give you more time to enjoy your deck during fall while also preparing for winter. If you need more help with deck maintenance or installation, call the professionals at Carroll Landscaping!
Interested in Improving Your Outdoor Living Space? Consider Landscape and Hardscaping Design Services from Carroll Landscaping
Carroll Landscaping has over 30 years of experience with landscape construction, porch construction, deck building, and hardscape installation. Our award-winning landscape designers are passionate about providing customers with top-notch service and landscape design. Our landscape designers have a creative design outlook and work as a team with our installation crews to make your vision a reality. We are committed to providing every customer with the highest quality workmanship, professional and knowledgeable service, and creativity in design in order to surpass our clients’ expectations in every aspect of the project.
We serve residents throughout the beautiful state of Maryland including Baltimore, Columbia, Ellicott City, Eldersburg, Clarksville, Sykesville, Manchester, Westminster, and Woodstock. For more information and to schedule a consultation with one of our expert designers, contact us online or give us a call at 410-922-2416.