Chandler Homes for Sale-Tips for Decks

Tips for Decks 

Chandler Homes for Sale may be greatly improved by adding or refinishing a deck. Decks add extra living space and can also improve the eye-appeal of the exterior. Whether or not you are adding to a deck or improving an existing deck, you be well served to consider the following tips.

Inspect Your Deck

You should inspect your deck thoroughly every year. Look for boards that may be deteriorating. As you check deck boards, be sure to include the deck joists. This is important since moisture can sit on top of the joist and begin the process of rotting the wood. Look for nails that are backing out because this may be a sign that dry-rot is setting in. You may find that using screws rather than nails will help correct this problem. Once you’ve taken care of these items, you are ready to  begin the next step.

Clean the Deck

The first order of business is to sweep the deck to remove all the larger dirt and debris sitting on the surface. Many Chandler Homes for Sale exhibit discoloration and probably should be power washed. You should be aware of the effect some household cleaners can have on wood. There are cleaning products intended for deck and siding cleaning. Using the right cleaning products will save you from creating other headaches as you clean.

Stain and Seal the Deck

To bring out the natural beauty of real wood, stain can be applied in many shades. If you choose engineered decking there will be no need to stain but costs may be much greater. Use a staining product that is absorbed deep into the wood. These products resist peeling and cracking while minimizing future damage. Use a stain that is waterproof to further protect the wood. It may also be advisable in Arizona to find a product with UV protection to slow the fading by the sun.

Many people enjoy the look of decking that has been sealed with products creating shiny surface finishes. While many of these products look great at first, they can be prone to quickly chipping and cracking. This will create the need to sand them off when it is time to refinish the deck. Sanding to this level is a difficult and dirty project. If you check with your local paint experts, they can help you find the best product. The right product will last far longer and save you unnecessary work in the future. Allow 48-72 hours of drying time before using the deck or replacing the furniture.

If you need more help in preparing your home for sale, Penney is available and ready to assist you. Contact her here!