Decks are a very popular, simple and cost effective way to extend living space to your home. Your decks should make it enjoyable to spend time outside day or night. They also add to the home and extend the entertainment and outdoor dining.

Like everything else around your home decks are subject to the damaging effects of moisture and prolongs exposure to the elements. A deck that is not cared for properly it turns a dull gray color. The degradation is caused by dirt, moss, algae, and other plants. This soon begins to break down the surface of the planks. Splinters form, creating a rougher surface that is even more inviting to dirt and plants. Before long, you have a dingy deck that's treacherous when wet and riddled with splinters.

Basic Deck Maintenance

1. Look at the Deck

Take a good look at your every year or two. Look for any loose boards that need repair or any nails sticking up.

2. Get the deck ready

Clear the deck of everything and cover or remove plants. Sweep the deck surface pretty well. Before beginning the cleaning process, make sure no children or animals are in the area.

3. Deck Cleaning

You must thoroughly clean the entire surface of the deck. You have to get the debris clogging the spaces between the boards. They can be blasted out with a powerful nozzle on a garden hose or a pressure washer. The water will also dilute any chemicals that will come come into contact with plants and/or grass.

Products that have a non-chlorine bleach base are used to neutralize discoloration and stains. Bleach-based products kill mildew, while acid-based materials handle the stains. But, be aware that bleach can

Be sure to read the cleaning solution directions and warnings thoroughly. The solutions can usually be brushed onto the deck using a broom or it can be sprayed on with a power washer under low pressure. In general, the more powerful the chemical, the less scrubbing will be necessary. Scrubbing can be done by hand using a basic scrub brush or a push broom. After waiting the directed length of time for the chemicals to do their work, thoroughly rinse the deck.

4. Sealing your Deck

After the area is dry, it is time to seal the deck. First, cove everything that you want to protect from the sealant. The level of protection depends in part on the application of the sealant. Sealant can be brushed on, rolled on with a paint roller, or sprayed on. Spraying is the fastest, but this is also the get everywhere. And, some sealants have color in them and will stain surfaces that are over sprayed. There are many adverse effects to getting sealing on plant and other surfaces. Sealants come in either water- or oil-based formulas. Professionals use the oil- based sealants.

You can get sealants than contain stain to tint the color of the deck. Sealants with stain can deliver a non uniform color application across the wood, so try it first in a not too seen spot to guarantee results will match your expectations.

Denton Lesslie is the president of http://www.greathomeimprovements.com and a consultant for Department of Energy's Building America Division for the last 6 years. There are many articles about your decking.

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