How to Properly Care for the Deck of Your Lake Zoar Waterfront Home
Before showing your home to buyers looking for Lake Zoar real estate, you have to make sure that your property is in its best condition. One area of your home you should pay attention to is the deck. If this outdoor living space is already showing some wear and tear, make the necessary steps to make it presentable and well cared for. Here are some tips to help you get the most mileage of your deck.
1. Pressure Wash
If the deck of your home is large, you need to pressure clean it twice a year. This is usually done at the beginning of spring and in the early fall. You do not need to buy your own power washer because there are many rentals available. Pressure washing your deck will help make it look more appealing to buyers of Lake Zoar waterfront homes.
2. Check for loose or corroded fasteners
From time to time, look for loose or corroded fasteners. This is especially important because nails and screws can come loose or break as a deck settles. It would be disastrous if during a viewing, a buyer of Lake Zoar homes for sale trips and falls over a loose board. You should also give close inspection to railings, banisters, and stairs to avoid any untoward event. Push on your railings and banisters and make sure there are no movements.
3. Seal the deck
Sealing your deck will help protect it from wear and tear. To get the best results, use a quality deck sealer. Make sure to allow your deck to dry from cleaning before applying sealants. You can use a foam roller or a pad on a long handle. Use water-blocking sealant to extend the life of the wood. If you want additional protection, you may also stain your deck. The stain provides an extra block from ultraviolet light, which causes graying.
4. Replace damaged decking plant
If the deck of your home is uncovered, it is subject to damage from fallen tree limbs. These limbs can crack, chip, or completely puncture decking boards making them look unattractive and extremely unsafe. To deal with a damaged decking plant, remove it and cut a new plank to size. Then, install it using decking screws or nails. Wait for at least a month for the replacement to acclimate and dry out before adding stain and sealant.
5. Choose an appropriate cleanser
Your deck will last longer if you use the appropriate cleanser. For wood deck, use a standard deck cleaner. Make sure to follow the instructions to. Some may require the decking to be wet first. For composite deck, use a cleaner specifically formulated for composite material. A commercial degreaser and detergent may be used to remove oil stains and grease. For vinyl deck, you will only need to use warm water and a mild soap to remove mold, mildew, and dirt.
It is a good idea to protect and care for your deck to prevent damage and expensive repairs. These simple maintenance tips will help keep your deck safe and looking great. Visithttp://www.CandlewoodLakeCTRealEstate.com today for more home maintenance and selling tips and ideas.
