Issue link: https://nest.uberflip.com/i/678762
Summer is nearly here and now is the time to make sure your outdoor spaces are as ready as your are. Whether your deck is wooden, vinyl or a composite material, it will require some routine maintenance to keep it in tip top shape. Taking care of the simple tasks annually will prevent more serious repairs in the future. So, before you fire up the grill and invite the neighbors over, follow these simple steps to make sure your deck is safe and ready for summer. Give it a Once Over Look over your deck - top to bottom. Look for loose or weathered boards, supports and railings. Tighten any screws and level any protruding nails. Sand down any splintering boards and fill in cracks if possible. DECK PREP Made Easy 1 2 Clean It Start by sweeping the deck thoroughly. Use a putty knife to get excess debris out from between boards and follow up with a garden hose and stiff bristled brush to remove the rest. While a pressure washer may be ok on some surfaces, note that they can be too intense and even cause more damage. A mix of warm soapy water should be all that is necessary, although there are products made specifically for wood and composite decks. It is best to wash your deck on a cloudy day, or at a time when the sun is not directly overhead to give yourself time to clean and rinse without baking the cleaner into the deck surface. If you have a composite or vinyl deck, your job is done. Sealing is not required or recommended for either, though you can stain some composite decking if it has faded. Check the manufacturer's literature beforehand.