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May 2008 - Mike Carson
Soon summer will be here again, and what better way to enjoy it than to have friends and family over for a barbecue on a new deck? Building and maintaining a deck may seem like a large undertaking, but if done properly, it can increase the appeal of your property and allow you to enjoy your home in new ways.
The first thing to consider when building a deck is how it will fit in with your needs and your home. Do you want a large deck for entertaining, or just a small space to sit in the evening?
The great thing about deck building is that there’s a wealth of design options available. The Internet, the library and local building supply stores all have resources available to help narrow down your choices. Once you have a vision of the design, put the plan to paper first before you buy any tools or materials. Having a clear plan to follow will help eliminate many mistakes and save time and money.
The next step is to take care of any administrative details. Check if your municipality requires you to get a building permit before you construct the deck. If so, it’s as simple as filing a form and paying a fee, and can prevent future headaches.
Armed with a plan and permit, you’re ready to go. Depending on the size of the deck you’ve designed, it may take anywhere from a couple of days to several weeks to build. It’s better to wait until after the ground has thawed and is dry before starting a new deck. This ensures that the deck will be built on a solid surface and it will make digging holes easier.
When it comes to selecting materials, there are many different varieties of wood and other products available. Local building supply stores will be able to help you find the right type for your needs. In any case, you should ensure that the wood used for the main posts and supports has superior resistance against rot.
After you’ve built your new deck, it’s important to ensure it’s protected and maintained properly. This will add years to the life of your deck, and a well-maintained deck will add value to your property. The first step in protection is to seal and stain. Most deck stains on the market today have a weather sealer mixed in that will protect the wood from natural elements. A good stain will help preserve the wood by repelling water, inhibiting mildew and screening out UV rays that can change the colour of your deck. To provide the deck with maximum protection, it should be restained every two years.
Another way to keep your deck in good shape is to make sure that it’s properly cleaned at least twice a year, particularly after the winter. You should sweep your deck often, and scrub it down several times a year. This will keep dirt and decaying matter, such as leaves, from damaging the wood. Make sure you clean the cracks between the deck boards as well, because if leaves and other vegetation are trapped there, they’ll cause the boards to rot. When cleaning the deck, you have several options. If you have a small deck, a scrub brush and detergent will do the job. For larger areas, you might consider renting a pressure washer.
While cleaning, take the time to inspect the deck for damage. Any rotting or damaged boards should be replaced immediately, and the new boards should be stained and sealed.
A well-maintained deck can enhance the value of your home and provide enjoyment for your friends and family. By following these hints, you’ll ensure that your deck is in top shape for years to come.
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