Interior Projects
    Fireplace Makeover
    Hardwood Flooring
    Staining Your Tile Grout
    Caulk & Caulking

  Bathroom Facelift
    Vanities & Sinks
    Vanity Tops
    Faucets
    Tub/Shower Doors
    Medicine Cabinets
    Floor Tile
    Electrical & Lighting
    Walls & Ceiling
    Accessories
 
  Basement Tips
    Lighting Techniques
    Sump Pumps
    Contain Water Intrusion

  Deck & Patio
    Cleaning & Stripping
    Power Washing
    Staining Your Deck
    Furnishing Your Patio

  Energy Related Tips
    Savings for the summer
    Savings for the winter
    Hot Water Savings
 
  Home Security
    General Security Tips
    Security Lighting
    Security Cameras
    Lock Bumping
 
  Storage Solutions
    Closet (Reach In)
    Closet (Walk In)
    Pantry
    Basement

  Out Of The Normal
    Hockey Centerpieces
    Winter Cat Shelter

CLEANING YOUR DECK OR PATIO - In some cases, a power washing and re-staining may not be sufficient. Decks that are not maintained start to have all sorts of problems. Wood begins to twist and check, where the wood cracks. Once wood checks, it's a path for water to enter and lay. In the winter this water freezes and splits the wood more. Wood will turn gray with age. While some people like the aged, gray, weathered look, others prefer a nice stained finish.

There are many chemicals that can be used to clean a deck, some with extremely long names. However, rather than researching chemicals, it's much easier and safer to purchase a premixed cleaner. Companies like Wolman, Zinsser, and Cabot all make deck cleaners and brighteners. These products will return the wood to an earlier appearance, making the wood whiter and brighter.

Household bleach should not be used to clean a wood deck. While the results will look good, household bleach can actually destroy the wood fibers and reduce the life of the deck. There is an outdoor version of Clorox made that is great for cleaning your composite type decking (ie: trex). It's more of a gel product so it sticks well to the balusters and other vertical pieces. Follow the directions when applying the product. Mainly, it would be used to kill mildew. Even though composite decking appears solid, it has microscopic pores that can harbor mold and mildew.

A patio, being made of concrete, allows for a wider use of cleaning procedures. Aside from harsh acids, it's going to be tough to ruin the concrete material. Because of this, concrete and brick patios clean up great. Apply an appropriate cleaner and power wash. The patio will come up like the day it was constructed. This applies to any brick surface like your fireplace of home fascia.

Lastly, it's important to know when cleaning or refinishing your deck is a waste of time. If the wood is badly splintering, the steps or railing are wobbly, and the general appearance of the deck makes you think twice about stepping on it, reconsider your plan of action. You may choose to remove and replace the problem areas.

Assuming that the frame and foundation of the deck is in good shape, you can always re-deck or install a new railing. When doing a railing or steps, a building permit is generally required. Consult your local building department. If you deck has structural issues, for the safety of yourself and your family, it is better to demolish it and build a new deck. Just use common sense and know when to not throw good money away.

Next Topic: Power Washing your Deck or Patio

Always follow the manufacturer's instructions. Never assume that if one ounce is good, two ounces would be better. Follow contact time and weather restrictions. Use protective goggles, clothing, and gloves when working with any cleaner or chemical.