Summer is just around the corner, and there are a ton of things you can do to enjoy the summer breeze at home. With relatively nowhere to go but home, you should be able to enjoy every inch of it, especially your deck or patio. That area is a prime summer hangout that needs to be in tiptop shape in time to catch the summer breeze. Here is a complete maintenance plan and checklist to go through this spring.
The Patio and Deck Maintenance Checklist before Summer
Spot Rotten Wood
Wood doesn’t last forever. It is a natural material, so it is prone to rotting. Before your entire patio collapses because of unstable rotten wood, start checking around for signs of wear and tear.
Rotten wood is not too difficult to spot because of its distinct nasty smell. It also looks like wet wood that won’t dry. Take note of these areas for the handyman to go through and replace.
Scout for Mold and Mildew
Mould buildup can happen, especially if you haven’t washed your deck regularly and let it be that way for some time. Mildew and mould can be hosed down and wiped off quickly, but if it lingers for too long, it might speed up wood rot. Make sure to assess appropriately if the surfaces with mould remain structurally sound.
Look for Broken Boards or Cracks
Cracks and broken boards are two things you don’t want to see on your deck, especially if it’s on the places that hold the structure. Replacements or some patchwork will do to keep it standing, but it could throw off the look of your patio. If that’s not a problem with you, then do so. But if you want your space to look amazing and presentable, you can always get a handyman with the right skills to execute good solutions.
Check the Stairs
The stairs leading to your deck or patio have to be sturdy and ideally “squeakless.” When it starts to make noises, it could indicate that some of the floorboards have gone loose and need some adjusting. It could also suggest that the wood is wearing out, which could mean that you need to replace the boards.
Make the Colour Pop
Nothing makes a patio or deck look better than good staining. If you enjoy the natural wood look, clear stains can look good and protect your deck from the environment. But if you want to switch things up, you can permanently stain it a lacquer shade darker or even paint over it with a colour of your choice.
Conclusion
Summer is the time to enjoy your home’s deck, not repair it. Spotting problems early in the spring in time for the season can give you time to check out new boards, wood stains or call the best handyman for the job.
Patio repairs are something that you should leave to the professionals. For great handyman services in Ottawa, hire Gillespie Handyman, a local business that serves the surrounding neighbourhoods of Barrhaven, Kanata, Nepean, and Orleans. We also offer a range of home improvement services at affordable rates. Request a quote today!