With spring right around the corner and the slow temperature rise, it’s the perfect opportunity to give your deck the long-awaited maintenance routine it deserves. There are many things to check, from mold and mildew removal, loose screws and even the railings. We will go over all these and 7 other steps to make sure your deck is prepared to tackle another year!
Read on to see the things you need to look out for and we will reveal some industry secrets that keep our personal decks at home strong and spotless!
We will also go over the tools you need to get the job done and what each of them is used for. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the amount of steps required to do deck maintenance, feel free to contact us at (865) 801-4545 for this and any deck-related inquiries.
Why Deck Maintenance for Spring Matters
Your deck goes through a lot…we’re not kidding! It is an unsung hero, considering it’s going through all the different weather changes throughout the year. In this instance, we want to focus on all the things that happened during the winter months and that, if left unattended, can affect your deck’s longevity.
Let’s go over our 10-step maintenance routine we recommend for any deck owner looking to protect their investment:
1. Inspecting the deck
Inspecting the deck is the first step in our routine here at Riverview Decks. Start by inspecting the entire deck for any signs of damage, such as loose boards, nails, or screws. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.
2. A thorough cleaning
A thorough cleaning is absolutely essential and is the second step in our maintenance check. Use a mild detergent or specialized deck cleaner to wash the deck well. A pressure washer can be useful, but be careful with the pressure to avoid damaging the wood.
3. Removing mold and mildew
If you check and there isn’t any, consider yourself lucky. If you do find some, use a mold or mildew cleaner to eliminate these issues. Particularly check the damp or shaded areas. To avoid mold or mildew growth in the future, you might want to consider deck underpinning. This will ensure proper air ventilation and will protect the area under your deck from rain and snow, which contribute to mold and mildew growth.
4. Repair or replace damaged boards
Repairing or replacing damaged boards will maintain the structural integrity of the deck. Ensure that all fasteners are secure. If you need help with this task, give us a call at (865) 801-4545 and we’ll happily provide you with assistance.
5. Check and tighten the hardware
Inspect and tighten any loose bolts, nuts, or screws. Pay attention to the railings, stairs, and connections to ensure stability and safety.
6. Inspect the Railings
7. Apply a Protective Finish
Consider resealing or re-staining the deck to protect it from the elements. This helps prevent water damage, UV rays, and general wear and tear. Discover the best deck stains of 2024! Click here to learn more: 2024’s Top 15 Deck Stains.
8. Check for Rot
9. Clear Drains and Gutters
10. Inspect and Treat Wooden Structures
If your deck has a wooden structure, such as posts or beams, inspect them for any signs of damage or rot. Treat them with a wood preservative if necessary.
The Tools You Need To Get The Job Done
Safety Gear:
- Safety glasses
- Work gloves
- Dust mask (especially when sanding or using a pressure washer)
Cleaning Tools:
- Broom or brush for sweeping
- Garden hose
- Bucket
- Soft-bristle brush for scrubbing
- Deck cleaner or mild detergent
Power Tools:
- Pressure washer (with adjustable pressure settings to avoid damaging the wood)
- Power drill (for tightening screws and making pilot holes)
Hand Tools:
- Screwdriver (to tighten screws)
- Hammer (for any nails or loose fasteners)
- Adjustable wrench (for bolts)
- Pry bar (for removing damaged boards)
- Paint scraper or putty knife (for removing old finish or stain)
Replacement Materials:
- Replacement deck boards
- Nails, screws, or deck fasteners
- Wood filler (for small cracks or holes)
- Wood preservative or sealant
Finishing Tools:
- Paintbrush or paint roller (for applying sealant or stain)
- Paint tray
- Rags or old brushes (for wiping off excess finish)
Inspection Tools:
- Level (to check the horizontal and vertical surfaces)
- Tape measure
Protection for Nearby Areas: Plastic sheeting or drop cloths (to protect surrounding areas from cleaning solutions or stains)
Ladder: A stable ladder to access higher areas of the deck, especially when inspecting railings or elevated structures
Woodworking Tools (if needed): we don’t recommend usinthese yourself, ask for professional help.
- Circular saw or jigsaw (for cutting replacement boards)
- Chisel (for detailed woodwork or removing stubborn pieces)
Mold and Mildew Cleaner: Depending on the severity of mold or mildew, you may need a specific cleaner or treatment.
How Much Time & Money Will This Require
It’s hard to give an exact number, as each deck is different and they each require specific maintenance, but here is a breakdown of the time and money allocation for such a project:
| Task | Estimated Time | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Inspection and Cleaning | ||
| Basic inspection and sweeping | 1-2 hours | |
| Thorough cleaning with a deck cleaner | 2-4 hours | $10-$30 (cleaning supplies) |
| Repair and Replacement | ||
| Repairing loose boards, tightening hardware | 2-4 hours | $10-$20 (fasteners, tools) |
| Replacement of damaged boards | 4-8 hours (or more) | $5-$10 per linear foot (boards) + $10-$20 (fasteners) |
| Finishing (Sealing/Staining) | ||
| Applying a protective finish | 4-6 hours | $20-$50 per gallon (sealant/stain) + $10-$20 (application tools) |
| Additional Tasks | ||
| Mold and mildew removal | Varies | $10-$20 (specialty cleaner) |
| Structural repairs | Varies | Costs vary based on materials needed |
| Total Estimated Cost | $100-$500 (DIY, excluding professional services) |
It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint
Remember, tackling a project this size may require you to spend multiple days to complete, so don’t try to do everything in one day.
Every deck’s situation is different but, as a general rule of thumb, we recommend splitting your work into multiple days. A rushed project is usually not a successful one, so plan out your tasks across multiple days.
Don’t Forget About Your Furniture
It’s easy to forget that a component of your deck is also everything that sits on top of it.
This includes everything from furniture, decorations, or potted plants. You want to give them a thorough clean and maybe even stain your wooden furniture. This is crucial if you want your pieces to look brand new for years to come.
Deck Maintenance for Spring in Knoxville, TN - FAQ’s
It depends on the scale and specifics of each project, but generally speaking, you don’t. If you discover structural issues like framing instability or broken boards, you may require certain permits.
Let Us Handle All The Hard Work
Deck maintenance for spring in Knoxville is an exciting and important aspect that will ensure your deck’s longevity. An important aspect that people tend to overlook is trimming and taking care of the foliage around the deck. That makes a huge difference in terms of aspect and usually doesn’t take long.
At Riverview Decks, we’ve been building, repairing, and tackling any and all deck-related projects for over 21 years. With a highly skilled team of professionals, we are ready to bring your projects to completion. We offer free quotes, fair pricing, access to quality materials, and a 5-year workmanship warranty. Give us a call at (865) 801-4545 to start your project today!