A brand new deck is something many Minnesota homeowners will absolutely enjoy, but only if it is cared for properly. It will be a considerable investment when you consider the initial costs, but the benefits you will reap make it well worth the cost. However, it’s important to remember that regular maintenance and upkeep of your deck is crucial if you don’t want it to become a drab, deteriorating structure. If you build your deck properly this maintenance should be a fairly easy task
Maintenance-Free Deck: Is There Such a Thing?
Unfortunately, you won’t find any options for a maintenance-free deck. Because decks are outdoors, they’re consistently susceptible to damage from the outdoor elements, hence the need for regular upkeep. The type of material you use for your deck will play a role in how much maintenance it will require to keep it strong and beautiful for years to come. Many people automatically imagine the rain and moisture that a deck endures, but what about the sun? The UV rays can cause a lot of harm to a deck; especially one that isn’t shaded at all. However, it is possible to keep your deck looking like new so it can last as many as 15 years, if not more.
Building Material
Choosing the building material for your deck is very important. So far, most homeowners tend to choose pressure-treated wood, the industry standard. The main reasons include its affordability, reliability and appeal.
If you want something unique, you might prefer the exotic, higher-priced materials. These are definitely appealing; however they tend to require a lot more maintenance. For example, Brazilian lumber doesn’t stain easily because it is hard. For this reason, it would require a fresh stain application more often.
Composite decking materials are another option. They are much easier to maintain than wood and require less time spent on repairs. This material is created with a blend of plastic and wood flour with the intention of creating a practical, lower-maintenance option. The initial costs are definitely higher but remain a preferred, sensible alternative to pressure-treated wood.
Always Clean Before You Seal
When seeking a professional deck contractor to build the deck for you, there is one important question to first ask them first, “What steps are included in your process?” When they explain their process learn what they will do first, if at any time you hear them say ‘sealing’ before ‘cleaning’ the material, you want to avoid hiring them.
Frequent Deck Stories
A homeowner recently told us her story on what went terribly wrong with her deck after a mere couple of years. She hired a professional deck contractor, but was unaware that the deck should have been cleaned before it was sealed, and very soon she was left with a moldy, rotting deck that was beyond any repair. She was under this impression from what her negligent contractor told her. Because it wasn’t cleaned off first, the tiny (more like microscopic) mold spores that were naturally in the wood, became trapped underneath the sealant. This allowed them to continue multiplying and causing damage beyond repair. We share this story with you in hopes that you can see just how easy it is to prevent such unfortunate mishaps from occurring.
It’s What You Don’t See
While it’s obvious that the wood will need to be cleaned for the purpose of eliminating the obvious grime and dirt it’s accumulated, the important focus should be eliminating what you don’t see; microbes and mold spores. That said, it should also be done a certain way to receive optimal performance. Clean it when very limited sunlight is hitting the wood; this is to keep it somewhat damp. Combine a mixture of three parts water to one part bleach for an affordable but very effective solution to clean the wood with. Otherwise, you can purchase a quality product if you aren’t keen on making your own. Should you choose to buy a product pay attention to the label, but also do some research to see how other homeowner’s have fared with that particular product. Lastly, use lots of water if using chemicals to clean your deck; otherwise they will wreak havoc on the stain in the future.
Your Deck’s Longevity Relies on the Sealing/Staining
Your climate will play a role in determining how long your deck will need to dry when you’ve finished cleaning it thoroughly. It might take as little as two days or as many as seven. Once it is dry, you can choose the sealant or stain you wish to use. You’ll find a wide variety of options to choose from which can become overwhelming if you go into it blindly. Should you use transparent finishes? Would an opaque stain be ideal for your deck? These are questions you’ll find yourself asking.
Oil-Based Solutions
While the majority of these products will help protect your wood from the rain, moisture and other outdoor elements, we continue to use, and recommend, oil-based solutions. This is because they are better able to penetrate the wood pores and offers a defensive barrier for UV rays. With water-based solutions you won’t have the option to simply reapply it a year (or so) later on top of the existing coat; it will have to be stripped of the old sealant/stained layer. With oil-based solutions you won’t have to worry about this added step for maintaining a beautiful deck.
How Often Should I Reseal My Deck?
This is not a question that is easily answered. There are multiple factors that have to be considered like the climate, location (region), amount of sunlight and the type of materials. The best way to ensure your deck is up-to-par is by consulting with your deck contractor. If you’re using a local contractor like Iron River Construction, they’ll know what might be the best solution for your area because they’re familiar with it; they’ve learned what works and what doesn’t. With a properly built deck and regular attention to maintenance, it will be easy to make your deck last for many years.
Your Professional Minneapolis Deck Builders!
At Iron River Construction we are the deck installation experts. No matter the shape, size, or material, we will get it done right. Click here to schedule your free consultation and quote!
