With the enjoyable Labor Day festivities right around the corner, perhaps it’s time to evaluate your deck or porch and make repairs as necessary. Do you know what to look for? If not, Distinctive Deck Designs, your outdoor entertainment landscaping expert, has compiled the following handy checklist to assist you.
Spray it Down
Before you look for any faults or areas to improve on, you need to remove dirt and other debris from the surface, which will maximize overall visibility. We recommend power washing for both wooden and composite material decks, but be sure to adjust the pressure for each material to ensure you will not cause damage.
Look for Potential Injuries
Getting onto your hands and knees, look for any splinters, nails or screws that can potentially cause injuries to your children’s feet or your pet’s paws. Furthermore, be thorough and check that every plank is secure. While you are investigating each nail or screw, you can also spot areas with soft or rotting wood. If you find any, you will need to replace these planks altogether, since it could compromise the entire structure. Don’t know how to remove and install new planks? Consult a professional deck contractor to do the job for you!
Inspect and Clean Accessories
Chairs, planters, fire pits, grills and fireplaces regularly become nesting places for debris and unwanted insects. Spray these areas with water and use bug repellant. While cleaning around fire-related areas, be sure not to drench certain components that may negatively affect their ability to function.
Unleash the Gardener in You!
Time for the ninja tools including the garden shears, weed eater and other lawn care accessories. Prune any plants, bushes or trees that infringe on your porch or deck areas, which will protect your home from damage during strong winds. Keep your grass looking well-manicured for a striking impression.
Think Like Your Guests
As your world-famous Labor Day BBQ event nears, examine the venue through the eyes of a guest. Do your lounge chair cushions look faded? Is there ample sitting room? Are there swarms of gnats or any other pesky pests nearby? Is there sufficient outdoor lighting for the evening hours? If you answered yes to any of those questions, take immediate action, whether it’s replacing the outdoor furniture cushions, adding extra seating, investing in bug repellent or investigating additional outdoor lighting options.
Make this year’s event the best by ensuring that your backyard entertainment space is in spectacular shape for your guests! If anything is out of your expertise, consult your local professional.
Distinctive Deck Designs from Clifton, Virginia provides numerous outdoor landscaping solutions, including gazebos, sunrooms and our award-winning patio, deck and porch area designs. Check out our Houzz to see our work and inspiration boards. If you need a deck evaluation, we invite you to use our contact form!