Maintaining a Deck in the Florida Summer

NEW YORK — According to Investopedia, improving curb appeal with renovations can help keep home values up. Landscaping, which includes a deck, is an example, as it can bring a decent return on investment (ROI).

Even if you don't plan to sell your Florida home soon, you still want to maintain or boost its value since doing so can help you increase its equity and improve your living conditions. It also future-proofs your property for a potential resale.

Deck maintenance should, therefore, be a crucial part of your overall home maintenance plan. Not only will it help with your decking's ROI, but it can also keep your outdoor oasis safe and enjoyable for everyone.

How to keep your deck looking great and in top condition this summer season

Make routine deck inspection a habit

According to some deck builders in Cincinnati, decking manufacturers may offer lengthy product warranties ranging from 25 to 50 years. Damage that arises from neglect, misuse, or failure to maintain the deck can invalidate these warranties.

A damaged deck or one that's in disrepair can also lower your home's value and curb appeal and may even pose safety hazards, such as health concerns and injuries from:

Routine deck inspections for any potential problems are a must for optimal deck maintenance. Conduct a careful, thorough check for the following to confirm your deck is safe and sound:

Schedule regular deck cleaning

The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) lists over two dozen types of pests that call Florida home. From the Caribbean fruit fly to fire ants, mosquitoes, and yellow jackets, these are just a few.

The above pest insects are more than nuisances; they can also be harmful:

They can also invade your indoor and outdoor living spaces, including your deck, if they find sources of nutrition in and around it, such as food debris and water.

You can prevent that from happening by regularly sweeping your deck. Sweep away bits of food, dirt, debris, and leaves and dispose of them properly. Wipe spills right away to prevent moisture buildup, mold growth, and potential staining.

You should also consider deep cleaning your deck at least once in the summer (and again in the fall). You can use a specific cleaning solution recommended by your deck builder, or if you prefer natural cleaners, opt for vinegar or baking soda.

Finish things up by rinsing the deck with a garden hose or a pressure washer.

Invest in UV protection

Florida's unique climate and environmental conditions, including heat, humidity, ultraviolet (UV) radiation and salty air, can cause significant damage to decks over time. Unprotected or unfinished decks are particularly at risk of accelerated degradation and deterioration.

Combat those issues by applying a sealant with UV protective features to your deck. The UV sealant serves as a shield that blocks or reflects the sun's ultraviolet radiation.

Consider adding shade to your deck. An umbrella, shade sail, or retractable awning can help minimize heat and UV exposure.

Protect your deck from moisture

In Florida, where summers are humid, constant and prolonged moisture exposure is an enemy of your deck. The air's salt content can also speed up the corrosion process of your decking's metal components.

To shield your deck against these environmental factors, use a UV sealant with waterproofing properties. Aside from providing UV protection, such products also create a barrier against moisture, helping minimize the risk of rotting and mold.

If you have plants on your deck, elevate them to prevent direct contact between the deck and water. Raise pots or planters to improve airflow and avoid moisture buildup. Using plant pot saucers can also keep excess water contained and away from the deck.

Another tactic is to avoid using rubber mats on your deck. They tend to trap heat and moisture, which can adversely affect wood.

Never delay deck repairs

If your deck inspection reveals problems like isolated board damage, peeling paint, or a small patch of mold growth, address them immediately. Replace the damaged boards, repaint or reseal areas with peeled paint, and wash off mold with a deck cleaner or bleach. The sooner you do, the less likely the issue will worsen and escalate into bigger, costlier repairs.

If your deck has extensive damage, such as multiple sagging or rotting boards or compromised structure (e.g., unstable joints or beams), consider reaching out to a deck builder. They can assess your deck's safety and integrity and give you guidance on whether repairs are still feasible or if a complete replacement is already necessary.

Routine inspections, regular cleaning, UV and moisture protection, and prompt repairs are all crucial deck maintenance steps to take this summer. They can help keep your deck looking good while remaining safe and structurally sound. Completing necessary deck repairs without delay should also be a top priority.

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