Real-Life Tips on Keeping Decks in Good Shape and Long-Lasting

A well-kept deck will add pleasure and beauty to your outdoor living areas and, at the same time, boost the value of your home. The humid and rainy climate of Tallahassee does not give many options for outdoor structures, such as wooden decks. Maintenance from expert deck builders in Tallahassee, FL at Eberhardt Construction & Design, therefore keeps the rotting and damage at bay. Whether you have just installed a new deck, or you are looking to rejuvenate an older model, below are handy cleaning tips, sealing routines, and periodic maintenance recommendations from our home remodeling contractors that will ensure your deck looks great over the years.

1. Routine Cleaning

The first and foremost secret to the longevity of your deck is to keep it clean. Leaves, dirt, and moisture buildup can lead to mold, mildew, or even wood rotting if left unchecked. Here is how to keep your deck spotless:

Sweep Regularly

Develop a habit of sweeping your deck at least once a week to remove dirt, leaves, and other debris.

Mild Soap and Water

clean your deck regularly, every couple of months, with mild soap and water. Brush gently using a soft-bristled brush, then hose off or low-pressure wash the surface.

Clean up stains immediately

if the problem is food or beverage stains or grease, clean it right away before it finds its way into the wood or composite material.

2. Sealing and Staining

Sealing and staining can help protect against moisture intrusion in a wooden outdoor deck in Tallahassee’s highly humid climate. It can prevent rotting or warping altogether with wood sealing and staining. Find below what you need to know about sealing and staining.

Choose the appropriate sealant

You should choose a good quality waterproof sealant. These are available in varieties based on the material from which your deck is constructed. Some of them even have UV blockers to prevent fading.

Apply every 1–3 years

Any deck typically needs resealing every 1 to 3 years, again dependent on exposure to the elements. Once you complete cleaning your deck, apply the sealant once it has dried.

Consider Staining

If you want to increase the natural beauty of the wood or change its color, stain it before applying sealers. There are stains in different finishes: transparent and solid. They add another layer of protection.

3. Regular Inspections and Repairs

The best way to take advantage of prevention is using regular inspections while it is still catchable, before those expensive repairs. Check your deck for these:

Rot and Decay

Look for rotting or decaying on the deck boards, railings, and posts, especially after heavy rainfalls. If you have destroyed boards, change them immediately

Loose or Rusty Hardware

tighten loose screws, nails, or bolts; swap rusty hardware to ensure that the deck’s structural integrity will be intact

Splinters and Cracks

sand splintered or cracked wood to prevent further damage or injury.

The Final Word

Whether it is a new deck to install, or just a little bit of deck maintenance to keep up your current one, Eberhardt Construction & Design is your trusted remodeling contractor in Tallahassee. Our team of deck builders will provide you with personalized service and will give you high-quality solutions for your deck to shine for years. Contact us today at 850-566-6320 to start planning your home remodeling project in Tallahassee.