Summer is right around the corner and that means it’s finally time to get outdoors and soak up some sunshine. You want your deck to be in tip-top shape so that you can get maximum enjoyment out of it. Here is our guide to prepping your deck for the summer months.
Clear off and inspect items on your deck – You likely haven’t spent a lot of time outside during the winter months, so now is that time to take advantage of warmer weather. Check out all of the items you keep on your deck during the winter months. The elements can be harsh on outdoor items causing them to wear out more quickly. Toss any items that may be too sun-faded or broken. Clear the rest of the items off your deck in preparation for cleaning time.
Clean items that go on your deck – If you have outdoor items that are soiled but still salvageable, give them new life by cleaning them. Cushions that fit into the washing machine can be washed and dried. You can power wash outdoor rugs. Wash the outside of planters. Scrub the deck furniture.
Scrub the deck down – The way you should clean your deck depends on the decking material. Begin by sweeping dirt and debris off the deck.
Earlier generations of Trex decks should not be power washed. Trex Transcend, Trex Enhance, and Trex Select can all be power washed with a fan tip on your power washer, using only up to 3100 psi. Keep the fan tip no closer than 8 inches to the deck when cleaning. Some wood decks can also be cleaned using a power washer using no more than 500 to 600 psi. If you’re not comfortable using a power washer, as you can damage your deck if you use too much pressure or the wrong technique, you can hire a professional to come out and power wash for you.
If you’re not comfortable with a power washer, a safe option to clean your deck is to get a broom with clean bristles or a long-handled scrub brush. Use a commercial deck cleaner or a mixture of 1 cup white vinegar in 1 gallon of water and scrub the deck. Rinse it with a garden hose and let it dry.
Replace all the furniture and add pops of color – Once your deck is clean and dry, arrange your outdoor rugs, deck furniture, and plants as you like. To give your deck an inexpensive makeover, add pops of color with some new pillows or pots of flowers.
Now all that’s left to do is go grocery shopping, call a few friends and plan your first barbeque of the season! Happy decking!