Get your decks ready for spring

With winter coming to an end, now is the perfect time to get your decks ready for the warmer months ahead. We have compiled a simple list for you to work through to help get your decks Spring ready.

What to look for when assessing deck damage

With the weather fluctuating so much throughout winter, decks can have a tendency to want to crack or expand existing cracks. These cracks can cause nails to become loose and work their way out.

When checking your deck hold back on hammering any loose nails back in. Instead, it is better to screw them back down as it will create a better contact.

Another problem that can occur after the colder months is wood rot. There are many different appearances to wood rot but the more common signs are:

• Discolouration: This can either be a darker shade or coloured rings that appear across multiple boards.
• Boards caving in: If your deck becomes weak that you are able to break them by walking this could be wood rot (also can be termites).
• Splintering of the wood: Due to the wood becoming weaker due to the wood rotting, can cause splinters to stick out from the boards.

If you suspect that you have wood rot growing in your deck you should contact your local decking expert for advice on what to do next.

Deck preparation

This is the best time to remove any build-up of dead leaves or dirt that has built up throughout the colder months. Ensure that when removing leaves and dirt that you get in between the deck boards as any debris left can trap moisture and inhibit airflow.

Once you have removed all leaves, dirt and other build ups from winter you can continue with the rest of the preparation.

Stained Decks

For already stained decks using chemicals or a pressure washer will help to bring your deck back to life. In some cases, if the stain wasn’t applied correctly prior to winter you will notice patches from where the stain has drowned. You can’t stain over a patchy stain so in order to fix it you will have to sand it all back and start again.

Unstained Decks

For new or unstained decks the best thing you can do is sand it back then apply a stain. The reason for stains is to improve the stability of the timber throughout the changes in weather. Having a good stain can help to prolong the life of your deck. Due to the protection, it provides against the elements.

Helpful hint: If you are using an orbital sander (recommended) you can use a wire brush to unclog the sandpaper thus making it last longer and saves you money.

If you need help with your deck repairs or getting it ready for spring give Fallon Solutions a call on 1300 762 260 and one of our friendly carpenters will be able to help you with your preparation.