How Do I Get My Deck Ready for Summer?

A deck provides a wonderful place to relax, grill out, and enjoy being outdoors. As an extension of your indoor living space, it’s a major investment in your property. To keep it protected from year-long exposure to the elements, and to reduce eventual repair costs, there are several ways to prepare your deck for summer while prolonging its useful life.

Wayne Owczarzak, the owner of Mr. Handyman Wheaton-Hinsdale, a family-owned professional handyman company, offers some basic maintenance steps to help his clients keep their decks in tip-top shape. “In early summer, you should inspect your deck and look for loose boards, splintered or rotted wood, and protruding nails that need repair,” said Owczarzak. “Check that the deck isn’t leaning, and replace any components that have cracked or become loose.”

Supports should be secure and properly installed, and the base of any staircase should be on a level surface. Pressure wash the deck and let it dry for a few days. If needed, a stain or sealer can be applied to protect the wood from the elements.

“Some of our customers prefer to switch to composite decking, rather than having to stain or seal it every couple years,” said Owczarzak. “Composite is a little more expensive, but it’s very low maintenance - and some decking options can look as good as the hardwood flooring in your home.”

You can update your deck by leaving the current support system in place, and resurfacing it with composite decking; you’ll avoid splinters, and hidden fasteners eliminate nail pops. Replacing railings with metal or specially designed balusters is another way to update the look of your deck. Solar lighting is another great option, adding visibility and increasing safety for your family and friends.

For more information, call Mr. Handyman. They’d be happy to help you repair, update, and prolong the life of your deck.

Mr. Handyman of Wheaton-Hinsdale

245 W. Roosevelt Road #69

West Chicago, IL

Phone: 630-657-0378

www.mrhandyman.com