Everyone enjoys a great-looking deck especially in the summertime when people gather outdoors. However, it is important and essential to ensure that your deck is properly cared for throughout the year.  
 
While regular cleaning is important when it comes to maintaining a residential home decking surface, it is also important to check routinely for malfunctioning components and even wood rot. 
 
It is also essential to note that decks that are built with pressure-treated lumber will be less likely to rot over the long-term. 
 
Pressure-Treated Lumber For Deck Repair  
 
This is especially true when it comes to wood that is rated for contact with the ground. Pressure-treated wood is designed to be very resistant to rot.  
 
Conversely, some decks are built using cedar or redwood or other types of similar wood. When this is the case there is a greater chance that rot may develop.  
 
It should be noted that even pressure-treated lumber rots if exposed to water and moisture for a long enough period of time. Homeowners should take the time to inspect wood decking carefully to identify any potential areas of rot. 
 
Replace Boards 
 
This can sometimes be a challenge because areas that rot are usually hard to see and are located under decking boards. It may even be necessary to crawl underneath a deck to perform a thorough inspection.  
 
When rot is detected it is then important to determine the amount of damage that has occurred. Shallow areas of rot that are less than a half inch deep can be managed without having to replace boards.  
 
Areas of more extensive rotting will typically require replacement boards. Boards can be removed using a flat pry bar and then replaced with rot resistant pressure-treated wood. 
 
Keeping A Deck Clean 
 
When replacing boards always use quality decking nails or screws. This will help to ensure that the repair is permanent.  
 
It is always good to replace any nails or screws that are popping up or coming loose. Homeowners should avoid trying to pound in old nails that have popped out.  
 
Finally, keeping a deck clean and dry is one of the best ways to preserve this important part of your home. Use a leaf blower and to remove leaves and debris as often as possible.  
 
This is especially true with regard to the areas between boards. 
 
Regular Deck Maintenance And Cleaning 
 
Keeping a deck free of debris, leaves and dirt will limit the amount of moisture that can ultimately cause rot related damage.  
 
This is due to the fact that leaves and dirt can hold water and moisture thereby damaging a deck. Keeping a deck free of rot damage can be as simple as doing regular maintenance and cleanings throughout the year.  
 
Enjoying a residential deck year-round is best achieved by following a few simple and effective maintenance and care strategies. 

dales-book
Dale's New Book:
Don't Get Scammed: Get Smart!
dales-book

SCAMMERS BEWARE: SEASONED CONSUMER INVESTIGATOR DALE CARDWELL GIVES READERS A GAME PLAN TO AVOID RIP-OFFS