One of the best ways to create more fun and memorable moments with your loved ones is to spruce up your outdoor living spaces. Think hosting casual summer barbecues on your new deck, or relaxing with friends on the patio with refreshing drinks. When beautiful weather comes around, you’ll want to take full advantage of the outdoors. [Read more…]
Essentials to Consider Before Adding a Deck
Make sure you have every detail covered when planning to add a deck to your home. By thinking carefully through the essentials, you can prevent delays and surprise added expenses. Here, The Deck Store, your premier Mandan, ND remodeling contractor, shares four essential points to consider before investing in a deck. [Read more…]
How to Maintain Deck Health Throughout Fall
Now that September is officially here, the first snow could be fair game in a matter of weeks. Even though you may have mixed feelings about the rapidly approaching dip in temperature, it is still time to say goodbye to outdoor summer living. Your deck is about to go into hibernation, but that doesn’t mean it should be left neglected. Here are some of the best ways to maintain deck health throughout fall and beyond.
Keep Clean
Cleanliness is key when it comes to your deck installation in Mandan, ND. A dirty deck not only looks unattractive, but also puts the supporting structure at risk of growing mold and bacteria. These problems tend to worsen in with the precipitation fall brings, so be sure to rinse your deck frequently with soap and water. If using a bleach product, test a hard-to-see area first before applying all over.
Address Problems Quickly
If you do find yourself in need of deck repair in New Salem, ND, this fall, it is always better to act fast. Your contractor is always happy to provide timely assistance, so don’t hesitate to pick up the phone. Fixing problems early could mean the difference between a healthy deck and dilapidated one next spring.
Watch Out for Rot
Of all the problems to watch for this fall, rot can be the most sinister. This is partially because it can be so hard to catch. What looks like harmless water damage may in fact be hiding structural damage. If you suspect you have rot, avoid contact with the area to protect your safety and give your deck company in Steele, ND, a call instead.
Cover With Tarp
Whenever possible, it can be beneficial to cover your tarp for long periods of inactivity. A tarp or similar will protect your deck from any incoming precipitation and prevent snowmelt from seeping into boards.
With these tactics, you can keep your deck healthy even after temperatures drop.
3 Questions to Ask Your Patio Company
When it comes to your new patio installation in Bismarck, ND, you want the results to be beautiful, long lasting, and unique to your aesthetic. That’s why it is important to vet you potential contractors and designers before you decide to take on the job. If you want to guarantee you’re working with a true professional, be sure to ask your installation company these three key questions.
- Do You Do Custom Work?
Unless you are looking for a cookie-cutter patio, cookie-cutter patio companies in Mandan, ND, need not apply. No two personal styles are exactly alike, just as no two outdoor spaces are exactly the same. Both of these factors make it important to find someone who offers custom work. This enables you to curate the patio of your dreams as well as one that speaks to your unique aesthetic. Your contractor should also be able to provide a wide array of materials and design options.
- How Long Have You Served the Bismarck Area?
This question is important because it lets you know the depth of experience your patio or deck company in New Salem, ND, offers. North Dakota is known for being home to some of the most gnarly winter weather in the country. If your patio isn’t built to properly withstand these brutal conditions, you may find yourself needing repairs or a new one altogether by the time spring finally rolls around. Additionally, the answer to this question can reassure you that your contractor has a long-standing and positive reputation.
- Do Your Patios Have Weight Restrictions?
If you plan on using your patio for entertainment options such as hot tubs or large grills, be sure to inquire about any weight restrictions for the materials you are using. A subpar company may, for example, only work with low-quality materials that crack under pressure. Avoid this frustrating and expensive scenario by double-checking weight limits first.
By asking these questions, you can feel confident in your patio installer.
Prepare Your Outdoor Space for a Drop in Temperature
August in North Dakota means one thing: A big change in temperature is coming fast. With the start of football season and the holidays rapidly approaching, now is the perfect time to assess the condition of your deck installation. Any damage sustained during the storm is best repaired now, as the first cold spell can quickly make problems worse. Here are a few ways to prepare your deck for fall.
Brush Away Large Debris
Any organic material left to fester on your deck this winter can put you on the fast track to deck repair next spring. This is because large debris like leaves and twigs can retain moisture and create the perfect environment for mold growth. Unless you want to pass this overgrowth onto the rest of your deck, take the time to brush it away now.
Clean and Rinse
After all rocks, leaves, and other detritus have been removed, give your deck a clean and rinse. Use a gentle cleaning solution and only use bleach if you know your deck can handle it. Leave the power washing to your deck company, as too strong a stream can cause damage. Be sure to pay extra attention to the grooves between planks, as dirt loves to accumulate there.
Replace Loose Nails
A loose nail may be no big deal in the summer, but just wait until colder weather strikes. A drop in temperature causes any existing cracks or nail holes to expand and become worse. When removing loose nails, be sure to replace them with a screw instead of a new nail. Not only will this provide better grip, but also better defense against winter conditions.
Cover for Winter
If you have a tarp or deck cover, get ready to use it. Although most patios and decks are built to withstand just about any weather condition, you can give yours extra protection by covering it for the winter.
With these precautions, you can set your deck up for fall and beyond.