We all know that Summer means more BBQ’s, cookouts, entertaining, dinners on the deck, and more. So take a minute or a weekend to spruce up your old worn out deck to get it ready for these warm weather festivities.

Here are a few ways you can spruce up your deck…

Clean it up

Sweep off our even power wash your deck to clean off the leaves, debris, and dirt from the winter months. Don’t forget the stairs and around the outside of your deck too.

IMPORTANT TIP: Power washing your deck incorrectly can damage to wood. If you choose this method, use low pressure. With lower pressure you can also use a broom to help break up and push away debris.

Using Cleaners

Make sure you use the correct cleaning solution for your deck. Talk to a professional at your local home improvement store, let them know what type of wood you are working with and they can point you in the right direction for the best solution. The purpose of cleaning your deck is to brighten up its appearance and to make it last a long time. Don’t work against yourself by dulling the color or ruining your deck with the wrong solution.

Staining and Sealing

How often should you do this? According to a credible website, this will vary. Before thinking about staining or sealing make sure you prepare your deck by cleaning it properly.

• Semitransparent stains – typically every year

• Solid stains – recoat after 4-5 years (average)

• Sealers – typically last 1 cycle so renew each year