Deck Safety + Maintenance

June! Summer is here and so begins the summer chores. I walked around the backyard yesterday and couldn't help but notice the eyesore my back deck has become. Needing to clean, repair, and refinish the deck, I looked to the North American Deck and Rail Association (NADRA) for tips.

• Look for loose or corroded fasteners. This can be especially important — nails and screws can come loose or break as a deck settles, and it’s easy to trip and fall over a loose board.
• Give close inspection to railings, banisters and stairs. Push on your railings and banisters — there should be no movement. Take the time to make sure no balusters (railing pickets) are loose or missing.
• Do some quick cleaning. Use a broom or hose to remove any leaves or other debris from your deck. If you have a wood deck and you discover mold, take the time to properly remove it and then apply a waterproof sealant, carefully considering what harsh chemicals may do to your nearby landscaping. Composite and PVC decking may require a quick pressure-wash or scrub with a mild detergent.

While it’s quick and easy to fix a loose screw, you might want to seek a professional opinion if you’re noticing significant rot or are uncertain about how well your deck is attached to your house. You can check out other deck care and maintenance tips and deck safety at NADRA’s website. (www.nadra.org)