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If you own a home, a deck can reinvigorate your backyard and provide an inviting living space. That’s why Gateway Exteriors builds customs decks for homeowners throughout the Greater Wentzville, MO, area. If you’re lucky enough to already have one at home, it’s crucial to safeguard your investment. Use the following tips to keep your deck in pristine condition.

How to Preserve Your Backyard Deck

1. Use a Deck Cleaner

One of the best ways to perform effective upkeep is to choose a cleaning solution that will enhance your deck. Even older, gray-tinged wood can benefit from a quality cleaning solution. When looking for a product, remember that bleach solutions lighten wood and non-bleach varieties remove dirt and grime without altering the planks. If your deck is surrounded by shrubs or trees, non-bleach formulae will be gentler on them as well.

2. Prepare the Deck for Cleaning

Once you’ve found a reliable solution, sweep your deck to remove leaves, surface dirt, and other debris. After wetting the wood, mix the cleaning solution with water. If your deck is especially soiled, add less water to the mixture. If you’ve recently cleaned the wood, you can dilute the solution further.

3. Wash & Rinse

Next, slip on a pair of gloves and apply the mixture of soap and cleaner with a roller or brush while the deck is wet. Let the solution sit for anywhere from 15 to 20 minutes so it can soak in and lift any set-in dirt and stains. Then, rinse the area with a strong hose.

4. Add Preservative or Stain

deckAfter the deck has had two days to dry completely, you can coat it with a stain or clear wood preservative that protects it from the sun’s rays. While the clear preservative won’t change the color of the wood, the stain will. Before you begin the application, cover the surrounding plants and fixtures with a tarp. After applying the sealant or stain according to the label’s directions, allow it to sit for 20 minutes before smoothing out remaining puddles or shiny areas with a clean brush.

By integrating these tips into your home maintenance routine, you can enjoy your backyard deck for years to come. If you don’t have one, contact Gateway Exteriors today at (636) 327-8609 to start discussing your vision. In addition to custom deck building, they also work with windows, doors, and siding. For more information about their remodeling services, visit the website.

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