Wooden decks enhance the aesthetic appeal of homes, offering a place to enjoy the outdoors in comfort. But maintaining the beauty and integrity of your wood deck requires certain precautions. Here are three things to avoid putting on your wood deck to ensure its longevity.
Bleach: Don’t Use It to Clean a Wood Deck
Bleach might seem like a handy solution for cleaning your deck, but it can cause more harm than good. Bleach is a harsh chemical that can strip the natural color of the wood and weaken its structure over time. It disrupts the wood’s cellular structure, making it more susceptible to cracks, splinters, and warping.
Moreover, bleach is not environmentally friendly; it can harm your plants and grass around the deck. Instead of using bleach, opt for deck cleaners specifically made for wood. They clean effectively and maintain the wood’s integrity. Look for a deck cleaner expressly labeled as eco-friendly.
Paint: Opt for Stain and Deck Sealer Instead
Painting your wood deck may seem like a quick fix to improve its appearance or cover up imperfections. However, paint forms a solid, hard layer on the surface of the wood, preventing it from breathing. This can lead to peeling, chipping, and eventual rot, especially in regions with heavy rainfall or humidity.
Paint also makes it difficult to perform regular maintenance like sealing or staining. Instead of paint, consider using a high-quality deck stain. Stains penetrate the wood, providing protection from within and enhancing the natural wood grain rather than covering it up.
Planters Directly on the Surface
Planters add beauty and color to your deck. But placing them directly on the surface can cause significant damage. Water drainage from planters can lead to moisture retention in the wood, which can result in rot, mold, and mildew.
Instead, use plant stands, plant platforms on casters for easy movement, or pot feet to elevate your planters off the deck surface. This allows for better air circulation, reduces moisture retention, and prevents damage to your deck.
A wooden deck is a valuable addition to any home, but it requires careful maintenance. By avoiding putting these three things on your wood deck, you can protect it from potential damage and extend its life span.