Prepare Your Deck for Summer in Just Five Steps

From relaxation in the morning to entertainment at night, a deck is the ideal retreat for many activities in the summer months. To make sure you spend more time outdoors this upcoming season, we break down how to prepare your deck for summer.

Inspect

One of the most important things you can do is assess the current condition of your deck and make sure it’s structurally sound. Note any missing boards, check for loose railings, and look for large cracks and rotted wood, which typically indicate serious problems. Once you thoroughly evaluate your deck, have a professional fix any issues. This way, you can be certain you’ll have a perfectly stable deck in time for your summer gatherings.

Power Wash

Does your deck look older than it actually is? Consider power washing it, which will effectively remove stains and sun damage and bring back the original color of the wood. Plus, power washing is the perfect preparation for refinishing your deck, as it extends the life of your deck’s paint.

Power washing has its benefits, but if you use improper technique, you can damage your deck. If you don’t feel comfortable power washing yourself, have a professional do it for you. This way, you can relax knowing they’re doing the job correctly.

Clean

If you don’t want to use a power washer, a stiff broom or scrub brush should be enough to clean your deck. Along with your preferred cleaning tool, use a specially-formulated cleaner and water to remove dirt and debris. If you skip this step, you may run into the problem of peeling paint, so don’t forego a good deep clean.

Stain

Staining your deck is a fantastic way to both beautify and protect your investment. Once you clean your deck, give it some fresh color to make it look new again. A stain not only boasts a beautiful hue, but also offers protection against moisture and—more importantly—rot.

Decorate

After your deck dries, you can reveal your favorite outdoor furniture. These furnishings probably hibernated during the cooler months, so pull out these items knowing you’ll soon put them to good use. If necessary, clean them off.

Here comes the fun part of the process: it’s finally time to add decorative pieces to make your deck look amazing. Don’t be afraid to get creative! For instance, fill planters with a variety of flowers and herbs. You can also hang outdoor string lights or place solar lights around the perimeter of your deck. A rug is a useful finishing touch, as it adds unexpected flair to your outdoor space and protects your deck.