For many homeowners, having a deck is one of life’s greatest everyday pleasures. There’s nothing like enjoying a warm evening outside with friends and family! For people who live in the Carolinas, like most of our clients, deck season is long. This makes it all the more important to make sure your deck is safe and secure on an annual basis.
As you read this guide, you’ll find some basic information about proper deck upkeep that will help you feel comfortable about having your loved ones over to enjoy your outdoor space year after year. The safer your deck is, the less you’ll have to worry about an accident occurring on your watch. That sort of peace of mind is priceless!
What you might not realize is that deck stain and deck maintenance are inextricably connected to one another, so as you learn about deck safety, you will also find out how to keep your stain looking great.
What should I be looking for?
Before you restain a deck, there are a few telltale signs that your deck needs to be repaired by a professional. If you notice nails sticking up at least ½ an inch, rotting deck boards, loose deck boards, or areas that have cracked and splintered, you should have an expert come to inspect your deck. You will almost certainly have to replace some boards and, if your deck is quite old, maybe replace it entirely.
What indicates it’s time to stain my deck?
There is not a single answer to this question. Some homeowners prefer a weathered look and, therefore, stain their deck boards only when they become extremely faded or blotchy. Others like their deck stain to look dark and glossy every year, so they have a habit of staining their decks on an annual basis. On average, however, not taking factors like weather and type of wood into consideration, decks need to be stained about every other year.
How can I make my deck stain last?
The best thing you can do to make sure your deck stain lasts as long as possible is to use a high-quality stain made by a reputable manufacturer. If you don’t know much about deck stain brands, get recommendations from a professional. A reputable contractor will be able to help you make the best decision for your project.
If, for example, you want a low-odor option that has minimal cleanup, a water-based stain might be right for you. Or, if you’d prefer something that will soak more deeply into your deck boards and last longer, an oil-based stain could be the right option. There’s a lot to think about, but your contractor will help you every step of the way.
If you’re ready to start your deck repair and staining project, give the Hatch Homes team a call today. We love working on outdoor spaces and look forward to providing you your dream deck that you and your loved ones can enjoy both this season and well into the future.