Summer is just around the corner and that means it’s time to get the deck ready for those relaxing nights at home in your own backyard oasis. So, we have some tips on how to get your deck fixed up for the new season.
Hanging out with your family or hosting friends on your old, dingy deck is not very appealing. Neither is having an eye sore in your backyard view. Lucky for you, refreshing it doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. Try your hand at the makeover ideas below!
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Decking
Restore your decking: Depending on the shape it’s in, sometimes all your deck needs is a little love. If it’s still fairly new, your deck might just need a deep cleaning and a new coat of sealant. There is a multitude of deck finishing and cleaning solutions on the market to choose from to achieve this. This is a good place to start if you are wondering how to get your deck fixed up for your guests.
Here is a quick 5 step process for restoring your deck:
- Prepare the deck: Clear the deck of any furniture, plants, or other obstacles. Sweep the deck surface thoroughly to remove dirt, debris, and loose stain.
- Clean the deck: Wash the deck to remove any remaining dirt, mildew, or stains. Use a scrub brush or pressure washer for effective cleaning. Rinse the deck thoroughly with water and allow it to dry completely.
- Sand the deck : If the wood surface is rough or has any splinters, use a sander to smooth it out. Sanding also helps open up the wood pores for better stain absorption. Start with a coarse grit sandpaper and finish with a finer grit for a smooth finish.
- Apply the stain: Choose a high-quality exterior wood stain suitable for your deck. Stir the stain thoroughly to ensure even color consistency. Using a paintbrush, roller, or sprayer, apply the stain evenly in the direction of the wood grain.
- Allow drying and recoat: Let the first coat of stain dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically 24-48 hours depending on the weather conditions. If desired, apply a second coat of stain for deeper color and added protection.
Lighting
Add lighting: Ambient lighting can completely transform your outside space into a relaxing, cozy oasis. Consider adding solar lights that don’t require a plugin or battery replacement. The lights turn on automatically when the sun sets, making your deck come alive. You can also consider paper lanterns, rope lights, mason jar lamps, or small twinkle lights, depending on the style and mood you’d like to set.
Check out these lighting ideas from Home Depot for more inspiration.
Privacy Screen
Build a privacy screen: Privacy screens come in all styles, shapes, and sizes. Consider purchasing and installing bamboo fencing or lattice panels for a quick and easy solution. Or, if you are feeling a little more adventurous, you can build a wooden frame and grow climbing plants or vines or stretch outdoor fabric in between. Whichever route you end up choosing, make sure you get the most out of your efforts by evaluating all lines sight before building.
Here is an example of how improving your deck can increase your privacy and appeal.
Increasing Value
Boost your property’s value with a deck upgrade! Whether you’re gearing up to sell or settling in for the long haul, a beautifully maintained deck not only enhances your enjoyment of the backyard but also elevates your home’s appeal in listings, attracting more potential buyers. Don’t overlook the importance of a sturdy deck as a buyer; from minor splinters to structural issues, a neglected deck can pose safety risks. We hope these tips will have provided some inspiration on how to get your deck fixed up for the summer.
If you are looking for more tips on how to improving your home’s value this season we’ve got you covered. Check out our other post: Top tips for increasing your home’s value before listing
Let our experienced agents assist you on your home journey, ensuring a smooth and successful experience from start to finish!