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Summer is approaching. As you start to have quality social time outside on the deck as the weather warms up, it might be the right time to maintain it and spruce it up. There are many maintenance activities you can complete to keep your timber deck looking great during Summer. Many people will oil, stain or paint their deck annually during the early months of Summer when the temperature is cool and not too hot. In addition to giving the deck a facelift with a new coat of oil or paint, you might also want to repair any damaged timbers, clean the deck, fill cracks and attend to other maintenance items described in this blog.
To help you keep your timber deck looking new in Summer, we have prepared this blog which contains all the essential maintenance tips that you need to follow. Most activities can be completed regularly throughout the year, whereas some should occur every half year or on an annual basis. This will help lengthen the lifespan of your timber decking and ensure that it becomes impervious to the effects of the natural environment. The following six tips will keep your timber deck looking healthy all year round. If you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
6 Tips Will Keep Your Timber Deck Healthy All Year Long
1. Regular cleaning
Your deck will benefit from regular cleaning. Fallen leaves, bird droppings, tree sap, pollen from plants and other natural environment matter should all be removed from the deck promptly. Sap, bird droppings and pollen can damage timber decking if left on the surface for a long period of time. If you see these items, remove them immediately with a damp cloth. In addition, make sure you brush away dirt, soil and debris on a weekly basis as this can lead to mould and mildew. You can also use a hose and wash the deck, but ensure that if you are using a high pressure cleaner the pressure setting is not too high.
2. Annual oiling, staining or painting
You should oil, stain or paint your deck on an annual basis. Make sure you check what type of timber deck you have, purchase the right type of oil, stain or paint and apply the coat correctly. You will have to prepare your deck for the process. Preparation will involve a thorough cleaning and scrub so that the oil, stain or paint will stick better and not bubble or peel after application. Make sure you check that the temperature is not too cold or hot and that there is a slight breeze with no rain expected for at least 48 hours.
3. Replace damaged timbers
Damaged timbers should be replaced because they can rot, be a tripping hazard and also detract from the overall look of your spectacular decking. Replacing timbers is not a difficult process. You can engage a professional or complete the activity on your own. Australian Treated Pine stocks all types of decking timbers, so you can purchase exactly what you need. You will then need to cut it to length, sand it down, prepare the timber, install the timber and then give it a couple of coats of oil, stain or paint.
4. Fill cracks
Filling cracks in timber decking helps to preserve its life. Wood putty or filler is the best option available as it can be pressed into the crack, sanded down for a smooth finish and then coated in oil, stain or paint. Ensure that you fill all cracks so that the deck looks new and healthy and will not rot due to moisture or water.
5. Fix timbers that have come loose
Over time, timbers may start to rise as the screws become loose. Make sure that you refix them correctly so that the timbers fit perfectly and do not pop up. If the wrong fastening device has been used, you could damage the joists, which may prevent the screw from fastening. If that’s the case, you will need to pre-drill a new hole and fasten it correctly. Following the wrong procedure could damage or split the wood. Also, take care with the amount of torque applied by your drill.
6. Decorate your deck
It is important to decorate your deck in Summer. When family or friends spend time on the deck, make sure you have a table, chairs, lounge, cushions, pot plants, BBQ and other essential items. An important tip is to place cardboard under your BBQ to ensure that any hot oils that leak from the BBQ do not damage your deck. After socialising on the deck, make sure you remove food waste and other materials that might have fallen on the deck and give it a thorough clean to help preserve the deck’s natural beauty.
At Australian Treated Pine, we sell quality timber decking in Melbourne. We are a decking supplier in Melbourne that sells cheap and reliable timber decking products including sustainable decking timber. To buy decking timber, including Merbau decking, call us on (03) 9305 2000 or visit us in-store.
Timber Decking Maintenance Tips for Summer FAQs
Question: Can I stain my deck in Summer?
Answer: You can stain your deck at any time of the year. It is important to apply the most appropriate stain for your timber and ensure that you engage in any pre-treatment processes. Check that the temperature for the day aligns with the stain manufacturer’s instructions, make sure you have the right tool to apply the stain, and ensure that there will be no rain for at least 48 hours.
Question: How do you maintain a timber deck in Summer?
Answer: It is best to spruce up your decking in Summer. As you socialise with friends and family outside on the deck, it is best to oil, stain or paint it (as required). You can engage a professional or complete the project on your own. Make sure you purchase the right applicants and tools, and follow established procedures.
Question: What is the best timber for decking in Summer?
Answer: You can install any type of timber decking in Summer depending on your preferences, the design of the property and your local environment. At Australian Treated Pine, we stock a wide variety of timbers for decking.
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