Category: Deck Services

Keep your deck in tip-top condition by cleaning it regularly. Follow the directions on the cleaning product to mix it and prepare it for use.

Some cleaners require scrubbing, others are premixed formulas that you can spray onto the deck and wash away with the garden hose. Some products are available in value packs for added savings. If you need assistance, call the experts at Pro Deck Builders Charleston.   

Use OxyClean

Oxygen bleach solutions are safe to use and effective for removing mildew, mold, and algae. They are also a good choice for preparing wood decks for staining. Unlike chlorine bleach cleaners, which can damage wood, these eco-friendly products rely on hydrogen peroxide and sodium carbonate to release oxygen atoms that penetrate deep into the wood pores, eliminating stains and leaving the deck clean.

Before using any cleaning solution, sweep the deck to remove loose debris and dirt. Protect surrounding plants and shrubs with a plastic drop cloth. Hose down the deck surface to dilute any cleaner overspray and allow it to dry completely before you begin.

Then, mix the deck cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions and apply it liberally to any areas with a heavy concentration of mildew or mold. If you spot a particularly stubborn area of mildew, pour some of the cleaners into a spray bottle and saturate the area. This will make it easier to scrub away the dark stains with your brush or deck brush.

Let the cleaner sit for the amount of time specified by the manufacturer (usually 10 to 20 minutes). Rinse thoroughly with a hose, working to dilute any remaining cleaner in the wood fibers. If a deck is covered with moss or other organic growth, use a hard bristled push broom to gently scrape the surface, being careful not to damage the wood.

For best results, use an oxygen bleach deck cleaner that is formulated for your deck material. Also, keep in mind that although it’s easy to get your deck looking great with white vinegar, this method is not a long-term solution for keeping it looking great. If you want a long-term way to keep your deck looking great, consider hiring a professional to handle this chore for you. They’ll use the best environmentally friendly cleaners formulated for your deck and will leave it clean and refreshed.

Vinegar

Vinegar is a great all-purpose cleaner. It can be used to clean most surfaces and is especially effective on mildew, mold, and grime. It’s also a natural solution that doesn’t contain the toxic chemicals found in many commercial products. It’s safe for wood and composite decking, but it is best diluted before applying.

Start by sweeping the deck to get rid of any large debris, and then hosing it down. This will help to loosen up any caked-on dirt and will make it easier for you to scrub. Once the deck is clean, mix your homemade cleaner and apply it with a brush or broom. Be sure to do a test patch in an inconspicuous area first, as some vinegar may discolor your deck.

For a timber deck, mix 29 ml of ammonia-free liquid dish soap, 3.8 liters of water, 473 ml of rubbing alcohol, and 1.1 liters of oxygen bleach (not chlorine bleach). Scrub the deck with this mixture, rinse it well, and then hose it down. For a composite deck, you can use the same mixture but with one tablespoon of baking soda added.

This is a great way to remove any remaining mildew, mold, or grease stains from your deck, but it’s not ideal for composites, so you should always rinse thoroughly afterward. If you still can’t get rid of all the stains, you can try adding some laundry detergent to the solution.

As you’re cleaning your deck, remember to wear rubber gloves and goggles to protect yourself from any harsh chemicals or bacteria that might be present on the surface of the decking boards. You should also consider using a long-handled scrub brush to avoid having to bend or kneel on the ground.

Baking Soda

After a long, snowy winter and rainy spring, your outdoor deck needs a thorough cleaning to get it ready for guests and summer fun. Many homeowners use chemical-based deck cleaners, but these can be harmful to the environment and damaging to your wood or composite deck surface. If you prefer to clean your deck naturally, try one of these homemade cleaners.

Baking soda, also known as bicarbonate of soda, is an inexpensive and effective household cleaning product that works wonders on a variety of surfaces. It can help to remove mildew stains from your deck and is safe for use on most types of materials. It is best to apply this solution before the stains become too prominent.

Sprinkle the baking soda evenly across your deck, especially on any areas with mildew stains. Allow the solution to sit for about 20 minutes and then scrub the area using a soft brush or broom. Once the stains have been removed, you can rinse the deck with a hose or pressure washer on a low setting.

If you want to keep your deck looking good all year round, sweep it regularly throughout the year to prevent leaves, twigs, and other organic material from accumulating on the surface. It is also a good idea to wash your deck with one of the above recipes at least once each year to remove dirt, dust, and mildew stains.

Several online guides call for either baking soda or bicarbonate of soda in their cleaning recipes. Both are the same thing, but recipes originating in America will often call for baking soda, while those from the UK will often refer to bicarbonate of soda as being a more accurate term.

Borax

Unlike chlorine bleach, borax doesn’t generate harmful gases. It’s also nontoxic and safe to use around plants. It’s a great choice for wood decks since it has degreasing and mildew-fighting properties, says Simple Green. However, because it’s bleach-based, you should wear eyewear, gloves, and a mask to avoid getting it in your eyes, nose, mouth, or throat. It’s also a good idea to sweep and spray your deck with a garden hose before applying this cleaner, and it may be best to cover nearby plants with tarps.

Borax boosts cleaning power by removing hard water stains. Hard water contains mineral deposits, including calcium and magnesium, that prevent soap or detergent from dissolving. Borax binds with these toxins to remove them, and it also helps soften water. To use borax as a deck cleaner, dilute a half-cup in 12 ounces of warm water. Stir until no clumps remain, then pour the solution into a clean spray bottle for use.

Add a cup of powdered borax to the oxygen bleach for extra cleaning strength. This solution is especially helpful if your deck has noticeable mildew stains. It can be sprayed on the stain and allowed to sit for about 15 minutes, then scrubbed and rinsed with your garden hose.

To use TSP as a deck cleaner, mix 1 cup of trisodium phosphate with 1 cup of oxygen bleach and 2 gallons of warm water. After scrubbing the deck, soak it for about 15 minutes before rinsing. The mixture is powerful enough to clean concrete, but it’s safe for a treated deck. It’s best to use this cleaner when you don’t need to wash your deck with a power washer, as intense water pressure can damage the surface and cause it to flake or peel.

Laundry Detergent

It’s not uncommon to use laundry detergent in combination with vinegar or other cleaners for cleaning decks. Laundry detergent is an effective degreaser that works well on mildew and dirt build-up but won’t harm or stain wood. It can also restore some of the color to weathered, graying wood. It may not work as well as bleach on deep-seated mold or algae growth, but it does help prevent mildew spores from taking hold. You can find powdered oxygen laundry cleaner at your local store or online, look for one that is free of fragrance and has simple ingredients.

Aside from removing any furniture or debris, the first step in cleaning a deck is to clear the area of dirt and grime. You can do this by sweeping the deck thoroughly and then using a brush with a stiff handle to get into corners and between railings. For a deeper clean, you can use a power washer. Before doing so, make sure that the nozzle on the power washer is set to “low pressure,” which will avoid damaging the surface of the deck or the wood.

If you decide to use a power washer, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for operating it. Be sure to keep the nozzle no closer than six inches from the deck’s surface, and spray in wide sweeping motions. After washing, rinse the deck with a garden hose. It’s important to allow the deck to dry completely before you put anything back on it, especially if you are planning to apply a protective coating. Consumer Reports recommends that you choose a solid or semi-transparent wood stain to protect the deck from moisture and UV light damage.

Decks require regular maintenance to avoid rot, mold, splintering, and insect damage. In addition, they may need to be stained or painted every 2-4 years to keep them looking good.

A custom deck builder will create a design that blends naturally into your home. J&R Construction will also make sure that your new deck meets all local building codes and is safe for people to stand on.

Better Quality Decks

Decks are a great addition to any home. They provide a space for outdoor recreation and can increase your property value. A quality deck is also a comfortable and inviting place to relax, cook, or stargaze after sunset. If you’re considering purchasing a new deck, it is important to consider the types of materials available. There are many different options, and each has its advantages and disadvantages.

The most popular type of deck lumber is pressure-treated pine, which has been treated with chemicals to make it resistant to moisture damage, fungal decay, and insect infestation. It is inexpensive and easy to work with, although it must be resealed regularly. However, this material is prone to twisting and warping. It can also release dangerous vapors if it is burned or cut, so it’s essential to wear a mask when working with it.

Another option is cedar or redwood, which are naturally resistant to moisture and fungal growth. These woods are harder and more expensive than pine, but they can last up to 25 years when properly maintained. They are easier to work with than pressure-treated pine, but they may need to be resealed more often.

Finally, there is composite decking, which combines wood particles with plastics to create a long-lasting material. This material is a good choice for homeowners with limited time and budget. It’s environmentally friendly and durable, but it can be expensive if you need a large deck. It is also prone to warping and cracking. If you’re on a tight budget, you can still buy a high-quality skateboard by buying a blank deck from a local skate shop or online. This way, you can support your local scene and meet other skaters in the area.

Faster Process

Decks are a great addition to any home, providing a comfortable outdoor space for relaxation and entertainment. However, constructing one can be a lengthy process. Fortunately, some strategies can help speed up the process without compromising the quality of the build.

For starters, hiring a professional contractor will allow you to have your deck finished in a much shorter time than if you were to tackle the project yourself. This is because they will have the proper tools and knowledge to work faster than you would on your own. In addition, they will be familiar with any local building codes and regulations that you may need to follow when constructing your deck.

Another thing that can help you save time is using high-quality tools, as these will be more efficient than cheap ones. For example, investing in an impact driver will make it quicker and easier to drive screws into wood, as compared to a standard drill. In addition, a circular saw will be much faster than handsaws for cutting boards to the desired length and width.

Finally, you should always pre-drill holes for screws. This will prevent them from splitting and will make it easier to drive them in. This can save you a significant amount of time, especially when working with hardwoods like Ipe or Tigerwood, which tend to split easily.

Large decks can take several weeks or even months to complete, depending on the size and complexity of the design. In addition, the construction process can be delayed by weather conditions and waiting for permits. Therefore, it is important to set realistic expectations when estimating the timeline for your deck build.

Affordable Services

Deck builders can offer a wide range of affordable services. This includes deck repair, maintenance, and cleaning. They are also able to help you make the most of your existing space by adding new elements or features, such as railings. Their services are also affordable and easy to pay for. They can work with your budget and provide you with the outdoor living space that you have always wanted.

In addition to offering affordable services, deck builders can provide you with the best quality and most affordable natural and composite materials. They can also help you design and build a custom deck that will add value to your home. Their goal is to give you a beautiful, functional deck that you can enjoy for years to come.

Their team is dedicated to providing superior service and customer satisfaction. They strive to exceed your expectations on every project. They take the time to listen to their customers and understand what they want from their decks. They also understand that the details are what makes a great deck stand out from the rest and they work hard to make sure that their designs match the vision of their customers.

They were very responsive, worked quickly and efficiently, and were on time with the job. They also did a good job of cleaning up after the job was completed. We would use them again and recommend them to others.

Design Options Available

When working with deck builders, it’s important to ask about the design options available. Many companies have various color choices, railing styles, and more that can give your deck a unique look. In addition, some companies offer different deck materials to suit your needs. For example, some offer natural wood, composites, and even plastic lumber. Each material has its benefits, durability, and style options.

There is an online tool that allows you to design a custom deck. This tool is free, easy to use, and offers a wide range of features. In addition to being able to choose the dimensions and layout of your deck, you can also select from several railings and lighting options.

You can also view a 3D rendering of your deck. This enables clear communication between you and your contractor, eliminates misunderstandings, and promotes flexibility in the design process. This can reduce construction delays and ensure that your deck is constructed to your specifications.

Once you’ve completed your deck design, it’s a good idea to speak with a licensed, professional deck builder about the project. They can review your blueprints and provide advice regarding safety codes and permitting requirements for your area. It’s also a good idea to work with a deck builder who has years of experience in the industry, as this will help ensure a high-quality final product.

Getting a new deck is an exciting project that can improve your quality of life and add value to your home. A skilled deck builder can create a beautiful outdoor space that perfectly aligns with your vision and complements the architectural style of your home. By using a deck builder that offers 3D renderings, you can ensure a smooth construction process and a result that matches your expectations.

Warranty And Protection Options

When you work with a professional deck builder, they typically offer warranties and protection options that last for a specific period. This means that if your new deck experiences any problems after construction, they will usually come and fix them for free within a set timeframe. This is an excellent way to ensure that your new deck will stand the test of time.

When a local deck builder is working on your project, they can often get bulk deals on building materials. This will save you a significant amount of money on the total cost of your deck. They can also help you select the best building materials for your specific needs. This will help you avoid costly mistakes that can happen if you try to do it yourself.

Local deck builders are also well-versed in the local building codes and regulations, ensuring that your new deck will be constructed safely and correctly. They will adhere to all of the standards required to keep you and your family safe, including structural integrity and other guidelines to protect against safety hazards.

Professional deck builders have a creative eye for design and can give you plenty of different ideas for the look of your new deck. They will sit down with you and discuss the various options that would work with your home and yard, helping you find a concept that suits your aesthetic preferences.

When you are doing your deck construction, you may be forced to space out the process over a few weekends. However, this can be very stressful and leave you with a yard that is messy and unsafe. When you work with a local deck builder, they can complete the entire process in a much shorter time frame, allowing you to use your new deck sooner.