How to Keep Your Deck Looking Fresh: The Detail Guys

It is important to maintain your deck's beauty by performing regular deck repairs in Maryland. A deck repair job done well will fix any damage to the wood and protect it from future harm.

We will be discussing the most common deck repairs you need to make to keep your deck looking amazing. Keep reading for more information!

Removing Old paint from Boards

You will need to get rid of any old paint before you can do a deck repair in Maryland. You can use a sharp object such as a putty knife, but don't scratch the wood.

Once the old paint is removed, sand each board using medium-grit paper and then wash them with water before you apply new paint.

Checking for Cracks

Next, examine the corners and edges of the boards where they join with other pieces on your deck to determine if cracks exist. You can fill in any gaps between the boards with caulk and then paint them over to seal them.

To fill in any cracks or gouges, you can use a putty blade to paint the deck again. This will make sure that there is no moisture underneath, where it can cause damage and rot.

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Most Common Damage Areas

Three main areas are most likely to sustain damage over the course of time: the posts, rim joist and the ledger boards. These areas require extra attention as they are usually hidden behind railings or below decks, making them more vulnerable than other areas of your home.

Rim Joist

The rimjoist, which is usually a wood beam at your deck's edge that connects to your house's base, is usually a post. These are vertical supports for handrails and steps.

Ledger Boards

Ledger boards are attached horizontally at ground level below decks to provide extra support. However, they also allow for some access in case of an emergency such as rainwater leaking from cracks between joists (horizontal board on top).

Joist Hangers

The joist hangers are fixed vertically to each end of the ledger boards supports. This holds them in place while they're normal use, but allows for movement during high winds or other events like heavy snowfall.

How do you prevent damage from your deck?

It is essential to maintain your deck in good condition. However, you can take steps now and in the future to reduce potential problems. These include:

All structural elements, such as posts and beams should be made of pressure-treated wood. They are more likely to be exposed than the rest, so they are more prone to becoming wetter.

It is also worth checking for water pooling areas such as under the eaves and gutters. Leaves can fall on roofs, causing damage to drains. Water will eventually seep into deck boards if it doesn't get out.

A composite deck should be cleaned regularly with a wood cleaner, mild detergent, or according to the manufacturer's instructions. Pollen, dust and dirt can accumulate over time and cause discoloration. Also, bacteria growth can occur which could lead to your deck becoming decayed.

Check your deck for any damage to railings or stairs every few months. Get it fixed ASAP. Small problems can quickly turn into major ones if they aren't addressed.

Conclusion:

You can keep your deck in top shape for years by following these easy tips.