Summer is winding down, and it’s time to prepare your deck for fall. Stain removal, damage repair, and a good scrubbing are vital. Take these steps to keep your deck looking its best.

Deck Inspection: Check Surroundings

Take a good look at the vegetation by your deck. Make sure tree branches and bushes are trimmed back and air is able to circulate over and around your deck. If it’s blocked, moisture will build up and lead to mold, mildew, and rot. Check the roof gutters above the deck. They won’t drain properly if they are clogged with leaves and debris. Look for signs of erosion around the footing of the deck.

Deck Surface Check

Remove or store any freestanding items, like planters and portable grills. Give the deck furniture a good cleaning and protect the pieces with a quality, fitted cover that’s waterproof. Remove any leaves and debris from the surface and wash the deck with a garden hose or pressure washer. Scrub away stains with soap and warm water. Use a stiff-bristled brush for stubborn stains.  

Deck Damage Visual Inspection

Look for signs of decay, mold, insect damage, or fastener corrosion under your deck. Inspect the posts for signs of warping. Check the stability of beams, stair railings, and joists. Look at the ledger to make sure it’s securely connected to your home. Closely inspect hardware and fasteners for tightness and corrosion. Nails can easily pop out on wooden decks. Hammer them down or replace them with deck screws.

Deck Storage Space

If there’s storage space underneath the deck, make sure it’s cleaned up. In some places, it’s illegal to store firewood and furniture under a deck. Be sure to follow the law in your local area. Add gravel under a ground-level or raised deck to prevent moisture and water buildup. 

Deck Maintenance

Check your deck weekly for debris and sweep it off. In milder climates, leaves that accumulate on the deck can collect moisture, leading to mold and mildew. If you live in a colder climate, keep the deck free of snow and ice. Regular shoveling and chipping can cause damage. When the weather warms up, reseal the deck to help lock in moisture. 

Composite Deck Cleaning

It’s best to clean a composite deck with warm, soapy water and a deck brush. A gentle pressure washing can also be done. However, pressure washing can potentially damage a composite deck if it’s not done properly. Contact the manufacturer for the best way to clean the type of deck you have and carefully follow the user instructions.

Leave the Power Washing to Us

If you are ready to spruce up your outdoor space, the professionals at Peak Power Wash can help. Let us deep clean your home exterior, deck, sidewalk, or driveway. We use a technique called “soft wash”, which uses a much lower amount of pressure and reduces potential harm to surfaces. Contact us at 443-686-WASH or visit our website to request a free estimate.