If you fail to take good care of your decking, it will deteriorate quicker than normal and rapidly lose its visual appeal. Installing timber decking at home costs money, so why let it go to waste when you have paid a lot to construct the feature? These tips will help you to keep your timber decking looking great for many years.
Forget the Paint
Many of us think that painting our decking is a great way to add to the feature. The truth is, timber decking does not respond well to paint. Staining the timber is far more effective than painting it. When you paint decking, it soon starts to flake, peel, and generally lose its visual appeal.
Staining is vital when it comes to deck maintenance. If you ask any expert in timber decking in Brisbane about staining, they will all tell you the same thing. The timber absorbs the stain, it looks great, and it protects the deck better than paint.
Cleaning Approach
The best place to start when cleaning your deck is with a brush. Choose a product with soft bristles and sweep away all the debris and dust that has accumulated on the decking. Dust and grit can be abrasive, so carefully remove them and then use a damp mop. Add a good quality cleaning agent and mop the timber. It is best to use a mild cleaning agent, so it does not damage the material. Remember to use a damp mop as moisture can harm the timber.
Nails & Screws
Nearly all timber decking is held together with nails and screws. When you are assessing the condition of your deck, have a good look at the nails and screws. Nails and screws can get rusty and start to protrude. If you see nails sticking out of the timber, grab the hammer and get to work.
Preventative Maintenance
Ensuring your decking stays in tip-top condition is all about preventative maintenance. The moment you notice a problem, get it fixed and do not let it worsen. Maintenance is all about routine, when a problem is identified it needs to be fixed.
If you wish to keep your decking in excellent condition, you must create a maintenance schedule and stick to it. Decking can last for many years if you take good care of it. If it does not get the attention it deserves, rot will set it and your decking will become unsafe to use.