With all the interest in low-maintenance decking materials, the beloved wooden deck we all know and love sometimes falls by the wayside. Archadeck of Central SC knows just how many Columbia area homeowners still want wood when it comes to building a deck. We are not downplaying the benefits or popularity of using low-maintenance composites by any means. We specialize in designing and building decks of various materials, including synthetics, in all shapes and sizes. However, when it comes to wooden decks, it is important to know that not all wooden deck builders and wood decking boards are created equal!
The widespread popularity of pressure-treated lumber isn’t surprising; it’s affordable, readily available coast-to-coast, strong, and easy to cut and fasten with screws. Most PT decking is milled from southern yellow pine. A pressure-treated deck will require routine maintenance to prolong the life and look of the deck. PT wood is graded according to standards that make certain grades more optimal for deck construction. Keep in mind that the quality of the wood available to the do-it-yourselfer from “big-box” stores may be quite different from the wood quality available through specialty lumber suppliers. Professional deck builders, like Archadeck of Central SC, only obtain wood from selective, high-quality suppliers. This means that the wood we use is free of knots, warps, and other inconsistencies evident in lower grade pressure-treated pine. In addition, the PT pine we use has also been treated with an Eco-life treatment that ensures better weathering of the wood itself.
Pressure-treated wood is still the leader among outdoor structure materials in the US.
The maintenance required for your wooden deck is determined by many factors. An important one is your structure’s exposure to the sun. If your deck is facing South or west, you will have to clean, stain or seal your project more often to prevent sun damage. Decks facing north or east may not get enough sun and may experience moisture problems, requiring maintenance to keep them looking and functioning their best. Moisture will penetrate the wood on an unprotected deck causing it to expand and contract with weather changes. UV rays from direct sunlight will cause aging and deterioration of unprotected wood fibers present in the wood. Over time, mold and mildew can accumulate on your deck, too. Proper deck cleaning and sealing can prevent most of these problems.
Before and after Renew Crew deck cleaning.
As a homeowner, outsourcing maintenance to make sure your wooden deck or outdoor space is adequately maintained is a viable option. Renew Crew of Central SC is an associate business of Archadeck specializing in outdoor structure maintenance and restoration. Renew Crew uses a 3-step system providing a comprehensive cleaning and protection service that is environmentally friendly and won’t cause any damage to plants, animals, or your outdoor surfaces. By combining low-pressure power washing and cleaners to give your deck a heavy-duty clean, and following up with a fresh coat of proprietary sealant, their process protects your deck from water damage and every-day wear and tear. Renew Crew uses a wood-penetrating sealant with a proprietary, UV-blocking polymer mix that penetrates and protects the wood. This delivers a highly effective seal against the elements and shields your deck from the sun’s rotectuveharmful UV rays, which cause wood to turn gray over time. This protective treatment can sometimes help you avoid the expense of resurfacing or building a new deck.
Deck revived by Renew Crew of Central SC.
Remember, when you make the decision to use wood as your deck or outdoor space material, it is never a question of “if” it will be affected by the elements; it is a question of “how soon.” If you are willing to care for your deck, then it will remain beautiful and serve you well. If a wood deck is well maintained and doesn’t have excessive sun exposure it can last upwards of 20-25 years.
The Archadeck of Central SC team – Mike Reu, Marshall Reu and Tucker Reu.
Traditional wood decks offer a beautiful natural appearance that complements the outdoors. Archadeck of Central SC can help explore all your decking options while keeping budget and personal tastes in mind. Please contact us today to help create your ultimate outdoor experience with a new deck! You can reach us by phone at (803) 784-1566 or via email at centralsc@archadeck.net
