After you have purchased and installed a deck for your property, you will need to keep up with any maintenance requirements. Not only will it protect your investment, but it will also make sure that everyone who uses it is safe from harm. It’s normal for decks to experience wear and tear, especially if they’re close to the ocean. And if your deck hasn’t been properly maintained, it could get damaged or even collapse. So, make sure you get it looked at by a professional if you believe it needs maintenance.

Because they’re constantly exposed to the elements, you will need to perform regular deck maintenance throughout the year. It will go a long way toward extending its lifespan, which will protect your investment. It will always be easier and less expensive to take proper care of your deck than to replace it. With the right maintenance, it can last for many years.

Important Deck Maintenance Tips

Here are some tips on how you can keep your deck maintained:

• Keep it Clean — You should sweep any debris (such as leaves and branches) on a regular basis. Trimming back nearby tree branches will also keep debris under control. Look out for anything that traps moisture (such as outdoor furniture, grills, and potted plants). The water that gets trapped under these items can lead to mold, mildew, or even rot. Rotating them on a regular basis will allow these spots to dry out.
• Scrub or Power Wash — Depending on how much dirt and mildew has built up, you should plan to scrub and rinse your deck at least once a year. You can use a power washer and a cleaning solution to remove any heavy buildup, but make sure you read and follow all directions before you do anything. Some chemicals can damage your deck stain, which is why it’s best to leave this task to a deck maintenance professional.
• Seal or Stain — If you don’t stain and seal your deck, rain and other exterior elements can damage it over time. If it’s brand new, there are a lot of advantages to staining and finishing your deck now. Installing a new deck can be a costly investment, but a stain or seal that has been expertly applied will keep it protected for many years.
• Perform Regular Inspections — This will keep your deck from getting seriously damaged, which can cause someone to get injured. Check and tighten any screws and fasteners at least once a year, and you should do the same to all steps and railings. If you find any loose or damaged areas (such as boards and steps), you should have them replaced as soon as possible.

You also want to keep water from pooling under your deck by making sure it’s being directed away from the foundation.

The Benefits of Deck Waterproofing

There’s a lot more to deck maintenance than regular cleaning and inspections. It’s just as important to apply some type of waterproofing. Some of the benefits of deck waterproofing include:

• Protection from Water Damage — This may be the most obvious benefit, but it’s one the biggest. All the other advantages stem from this benefit alone, because it does more than protect the deck itself. It can also prevent your home from getting water damage, which can cause costly (even dangerous) rot and mold.
• Prevention of Wear and Tear — foot traffic, furniture, and other heavy loads can cause your deck to experience “wear and tear.” But if you apply a durable waterproof coating, it will prevent this kind of damage.
• Improved Safety — Waterproofing your deck can make it safer in a number of ways. Not only will it keep your deck from any slippery surfaces caused by standing water, but it will also create a high-traction surface (which can be helpful). It will even preserve the deck’s structural integrity by preventing rot and decay, which can be the result of water damage.
• Prevention of Expensive Repairs — Even though it comes with a small upfront cost, deck waterproofing can save you thousands in expensive repairs and replacements. If you take steps to protect your deck from water damage (along with normal wear and tear), you can increase its lifespan by many years. Untreated decks and balconies are more likely to need expensive and time-consuming repairs after just a few years.

If you want to find one of the best places for deck waterproofing in Los Angeles, be sure to get in touch with the Fiber Coat Deck Company.