| This is the time of year when our thoughts turn to | | | | sprayer will lift out the crud, then using a wood stain |
| outdoor activities. Fun and enjoyment out in the sun | | | | if you choose to enhance the shade, or simply a clear |
| and warm air is on everyone's mind and we can | | | | sealer. To test to see if your wood needs attention |
| hardly wait. A great spot to get the most of the | | | | this way, pour a small cup of water on a few flat |
| short summer season is outdoors on a private deck. | | | | surfaces, and if it is absorbed into the wood in less |
| Here you can visit with guests, use it as your dining | | | | than 10 minutes then you need to reapply protection. |
| room or just sit a read or relax. If you want to build | | | | The safety element factors in when the wood is not |
| a deck to get prepared for entertaining now is | | | | protected, as it will splinter, warp and you could end |
| certainly the time to get started to take advantage | | | | up with loose railings or stairs, any fixtures on the |
| of the nice climate. If you have a deck, you need to | | | | deck like planter and benches need to be secure, if |
| make sure it's in tip top shape to prepare for the | | | | not this can lead to accidents. All joints, bolts, screws |
| season. | | | | and surfaces need to have a thorough 'once over' |
| Building a deck starts with a good set of blueprints or | | | | and if anything need to be replaced, then go back to |
| plans. From here you have direction on what supplies | | | | your deck plans and make sure you find the size and |
| you will need and step by step instructions. What | | | | how to put it back into place. |
| your plans won't tell you is how to care for your | | | | When you build a deck, you need to maintain it with |
| deck in years to come. There is maintenance. Your | | | | proper care, this is as important as the construction |
| work does not end with the construction process. | | | | process. Anything you place on the deck can affect |
| Care in making sure the wood is protected and the | | | | it. Does your grill drip grease at all? If so put down a |
| structure stays safe is very important. If you apply | | | | protected mat to stop the grease from penetrating |
| protection, this seals the pores in the wood to | | | | the wood. Over time the structural integrity can |
| prevent against warping, rotting and dirt being | | | | break down and cause your beautiful deck to be |
| imbedded in the wood. Mold and mildew will break | | | | nothing but an expensive repair or eyesore. Take |
| down the deck you have worked so hard to build. | | | | pride in what you have constructed so you can |
| Cleaning the wood off with a cleaner or high pressure | | | | enjoy the short season on something safe and solid. |