Chicagoland Deck Builders Explain how to Maintain your Deck
Chicagoland experiences all four seasons, winter, spring, summer, and fall, each bringing challenges for your outdoor space. Archadeck of Chicagoland has been Chicagoland's preferred deck builders since 2004. Whether your deck is wood or composite it endures heavy snow in the winter, rain through the spring, and record humidity in the summer. You can keep our deck structurally sound and looking good year-round with proper care and maintenance.
Maintaining your deck through Winter
Chicago winters can be brutal. Heavy snowfall and sometimes below-freezing temperatures can hurt your deck without the proper care. We recommend clearing snow from your deck regularly with a plastic shovel to avoid potential damage like scratches. Salting your deck with rock salt isn’t recommended as the chemicals can erode wood and composite decking. If you can, cover your deck furniture or store it indoors to prevent moisture buildup and damage from the freezing temperatures. Our skilled deck builders at Archadeck of Chicagoland use high-quality materials to ensure your deck lasts through every season.
Maintaining your deck through Spring
Spring cleaning doesn’t stop inside the house, it’s important to clean up your outdoor space for Spring as well. Start by cleaning off any dirt, debris, or grime from over the winter. Sweep off leaves and twigs that can trap moisture and cause potential rotting. Use a deck cleaner to remove any mildew, dirt, and mold. We typically recommend a soft bristle brush or a pressure washer on a low setting. It’s a good time to inspect your deck for signs of wear and tear caused by the harsh Chicago winters. If you have a wood deck, check any areas that need resending, sealing, staining, or painting.
Maintaining your deck through Summer
Chicago summers not only bring heat but also high humidity. The hot summer sun can dry out wood leading to potential cracks and splinters. It’s important to check your wood for any warping or shifting.
Cleaning off your deck regularly helps to prevent any stains. Watch out for mold and mildew as the humidity could lead to potential issues. Summer requires minimal maintenance as it’s the prime time to enjoy your outdoor space.
Maintaining your deck through Fall
Maintaining your deck through the fall gets you prepared for the upcoming winter. Similarly to winter, you want to clear leaves and debris to avoid any trapped moisture or mold. It’s a good time to inspect the nails or screws on your deck to ensure they haven’t loosened or rusted. If you’re considering making any changes to your outdoor space fall is a great time to contact Archadeck as we typically have slower lead times and seasonal discounts.
Maintaining your deck through Chicago’s ever-changing seasons requires time and effort, but it’s worth it to protect your outdoor space and investment. At Archadeck of Chicagoland, our expert deck builders specialize in custom outdoor living spaces tailored to your lifestyle. We offer custom designs and expert craftsmanship to ensure your deck withstands the test of time.