The construction of a really great deck is an accomplishment that most homeowners find very desirable. Outdoor entertaining is one of the most valuable forms of social interaction, and a well-built, well-maintained deck can serve as the crown jewel of your home. Most homeowners put weeks of work, effort and expense into building a deck or patio, but fail to give much thought as to how it should be cared for once construction is complete. After investing so much into such a project, this can be a disastrous oversight.

Protecting your deck actually begins during the construction process. Your choice of building materials will make a drastic difference in the life expectancy of your deck. While it may be tempting to cut corners and buy cheaper wood, this can be a costly mistake. Pay careful attention when you choose your lumber. No matter what kind of wood (pine, oak, cedar, etc.) you decide to use, make absolutely sure that it is pre-treated. Untreated lumber is much more susceptible to damage from elements such as rain, snow, sun and insects. Before you begin building, you also want to make sure that your foundation is solid and will stand up well to the traffic on your future deck. You can expect settling to occur, but a well constructed foundation will help prevent cracking and warping as the deck settles into the ground over time.

Once the major construction is over, there are several steps you can take to further protect your investment. Even if you have used pre-treated lumber, the use of water sealant can drastically increase the durability of your deck. There are also paints and wood stains available on the market that can offer similar protection. These can be used not only to weatherproof your deck but also to personalize and improve its appearance.

There are additions to your deck that can serve double duty by providing both function and protection. If you are a dedicated outdoor entertainer, the addition of a roof to your backyard deck can be highly valuable. A roof can provide shade and comfort for yourself and your guests as well as protection from damaging elements like sun and rain.

Of course, deck maintenance is not a “fix-it-and-forget-it” process. While proper care can prolong the life of your deck substantially, it must be addressed in a timely manner. After your initial efforts, keep an annual check on the condition of your deck. Pay attention not only to the floors, but also to steps, railing, seating and roofing. Damage and wear can show up in unexpected places, so be thorough in your examination and take note of anything you might notice during daily use. Things such as stain, paint and sealant will need to be refreshed every few years (more frequently if you see extreme weather or heavy use). Of course, if your home is caught in any severe weather situations that might result in damage, be sure to include your deck in your home inspection.

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Category: Advice
Keywords: Home, Business, Repair, Renovation, Green, Energy