Fall is the perfect time to clean up your yard and make sure your siding, deck, and grass are ready for the long, cold winter months. Have you installed a new platform recently? It may look beautiful now, but if not properly maintained it can start to fade over time. Here are some ways to maintain your cover.
Fall is the perfect time to wash and seal. If you missed this step in the spring, it’s best to do it now before waiting until the new year. You should do this while the temperature is still warm enough to avoid frost problems.
If you have bushes or vegetation growing around your deck, make sure they are trimmed properly. This will ensure that excessive root growth does not occur and cause damage to your deck. If you’re also experiencing foliage drooping over your deck, you could even trim back a few branches to help reduce debris collecting on the edges. The standard rule of thumb is to trim trees and shrubs back a minimum of twelve inches from the deck so there are no mold or rot problems.
Inspect your cover for any signs of damage. It’s always a good idea to repair any damage before the winter months to prevent further problems or long-term damage. This could lead to an expensive repair in the spring.
Take a look at the edges for signs of discoloration, wet spots, or rot. Make sure to pay special attention to stairs. The wood should never be soft. If you spot any space that is rotting, you should remove it and treat it accordingly. If you see large areas of rotten spots, it may be time to call a professional to look for them.
Don’t forget to check below deck too. If your frame is attached to your house, pay special attention to the ledger to make sure there is no damage. Make sure it’s attached with screws, not nails.
The next step would be to check the beams and all the joints and hardware. If something rusts or rots, it needs to be replaced. If you see chipped nails or extensive damage such as side screws, it would be best to contact a professional deck repair company rather than attempt to resolve this issue yourself.
The frame should never be easy to move. It must be rigid and reinforced. If it is rotten or wobbly then it needs to be taken care of before winter comes. The full weight of the snow will contribute to further damage.
The last steps for fall maintenance checks would be to check for rotten or wobbly boards. They should be reinforced with more screws or replaced depending on the extent of the damage.
To maintain and preserve your deck for years to come, be sure to follow these tips. It is better to be proactive than to try to correct a bigger and more expensive mistake in the future.