Your decking may need to be waterproofed every 5 to 10 years or so. If you haven’t paid attention to it in a while, you might notice that water, wind, UV rays, and other elements are starting to add some wear and tear.
Worry not, there are ways to remedy this, but first, you’re going to want to know what you’re looking for and what you need to do.
Let’s start with how often some expert tips you can use to enjoy longer-lasting decking that complements your home for many years to come.
Rain & Lightweight Decks
If you have a lightweight deck, it may not stand the test of time, and it’s likely that you might want to replace it in a few years. That’s because these types of decks are usually made of synthetic materials that are not as durable and long-lasting as those made out of wood.
For that reason, lightweight decks are much more likely to warp, crack, and rot away after several years of having water on them. On the other hand, if you have a solid deck, it will likely last for much longer.
That’s because a solid deck is made out of real wood, which is much more durable and long-lasting than synthetic materials.
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Solid Grounding and Drainage
If your deck is made out of wood, you’ll want to make sure it’s properly grounded so it doesn’t become a lightning rod. You can do this by attaching a wire to one post and running it through the ground to a ground rod that’s in the soil nearby.
This will help disperse the electricity from lightning strikes and keep you and your family safe. If your deck is built on a wooden frame, you may also find that it’s prone to flooding during a heavy rain storm.
You can fix this problem by adding some drainage holes under each post so the water has somewhere to go.
Solid Core Decks
If you have a solid core deck, it’s likely that it will last for many years. That’s because a solid core deck is made from the inside of the tree out, which means it’s incredibly strong and long-lasting.
To make sure it lasts for many years, you’ll want to waterproof it to prevent rot and mold from forming on the surface of the deck. You can do this by cleaning it off with soap and water and then adding a solid sealant that’s made to be applied to wood.
Staining the Bottom of Your Deck
If your deck is made out of wood, you can extend its life by staining the bottom of it. Doing so will prevent rot and mold from forming on the surface of the deck. You can do this by using a rag to apply the stain to the bottom of each board.
Wearing rubber gloves is also a good idea since it can be difficult to get the stain off your fingers later. With the bottom of your deck stained, there will also be no need to stain the top of it. Doing so will also prevent you from having to clean the tops of the boards every so often.
Solid Coating on the Edges
If your deck has wooden edges, you can extend its life by coating the ends in a thick solid coating. This will prevent rot and mold from forming on the ends of the deck, as well as keep the boards from splintering.
You can do this by applying thick latex paint to the edges with a paintbrush. This process will make them last for many years and will also make them look nice and clean.
Conclusion
If you’re planning to build a new deck, you’ll want to make sure it’s made out of wood so it lasts for many years. That way, there is no need to waterproof it because it’s already made out of wood that repels water.
If your current deck is lightweight, you’ll want to waterproof it with a sealant that’s made of wood. This helps prevent rot and mold from forming on the surface of the deck and keeps it looking new and clean for several years.
It’s important to keep your deck clean and free of leaves, dirt, and other debris to help extend its life. You can do this by using a broom or leaf blower to clear away leaves and other items that have blown onto your deck.
