Spring Cleaning Tips for Your Deck or Patio

Now that the warmer weather is here, it’s time to start thinking about spring cleaning your deck or patio. Not sure where to start? Don’t worry – we have you covered with these simple steps. Read on for tips on how to get your outdoor space looking its best!

Sweep Away Debris

The first step in any good spring cleaning should be sweeping away all the debris that has accumulated over winter. This includes leaves, sticks, and other dirt and grime that may have worked its way into cracks and crevices. Get out a broom or leaf blower to make sure everything is gone before you move on to the next step. Also, check for broken wood, or nails sticking up, and replace if need be. As they say about painting, it’s all in the prep work!

Wash With Soapy Water

After the debris is gone, it’s time to give your deck or patio a good wash with warm soapy water. A soft scrub brush will help you get into all those hard-to-reach spots as well as remove any stubborn stains or mold that may have developed over the colder months. When you’re done scrubbing, be sure to rinse off the area with clean water so there isn’t any soap residue left behind.

Let Dry Completely

This may seem like an obvious step, but it’s important enough to emphasize – let the area dry completely before applying any stain or sealant! You don’t want moisture getting trapped beneath a freshly applied layer of stain or sealant so give it at least 24 hours for full dryness before moving onto this next step.

Stain Or Paint Deck When Appropriate

Now that your deck is completely dry, it’s time to apply a layer of stain or paint depending on your preference. If your deck has never been stained, sealed, or painted before, then you can prime and paint your deck, or add stain. If you’re planning to paint your deck, make sure you purchase “deck paint”, as it is more durable for a deck than just regular exterior paint which holds up on vertical siding only.

It’s important to know what has been applied to your deck already. If your deck was painted before, was it oil based, or water based? You need to apply the same as what has already been applied on the deck. If you know it was oil based and you want to use a water based paint this time, then you must prime the deck first. And vice versa for water based to oil based.

Both options are a matter of preference. Staining needs to be re-stained once a year or two if you live in New England. Where paint, if done properly will, last much longer in between needing to paint it again. Although stain gives that outdoors look that many people like, painting can hide a lot when it comes to a patched up deck, or staining spots etc.

Make sure there won’t be any rain for at least two days before staining – this will ensure proper drying time and prevent potential damage from rainwater mixing with wet stain/sealant or paint.

Cleaning & Refreshing Patio Furniture

While you’re are waiting for your deck to dry it’s time to get your outdoor furniture sparkling clean! Whether it’s made of wood, plastic, or metal, there are lots of ways to bring out the best in your pieces. After giving them a good scrub with soapy water, add a refreshing finish with a pressure washer or painting if desired. If you have older metal based chairs and tables you can use a wire brush to get off any rusty pealing chips and prep it to paint with Rust-Oleum spray paint if desired, you can change the color completely and even purchase newer cushions to replace sun faded fabric.

Don’t forget to deep-clean those umbrellas and BBQ grills too – they need the same TLC as other outdoor furniture! And you can even paint those a fresh new color as well.  With everything shining and smelling like new again, you can finally enjoy spending time on your freshly finished deck in style.

Time To Re-Decorate Your Deck

With summer just around the corner, it’s time to create a space perfect for warm days and long nights out on your deck. You already put in all of the hard work refinishing and sprucing up your outdoor entertaining area, now make it cozy and inviting with some simple details! String lights bring a touch of ambience while a bright rug anchors the scene; add some potted plants to give it that natural feel and then don’t forget the most important part—the candle lights! With your newly decorated deck, you’ll be ready to enjoy all sorts of gatherings with family and friends.

Conclusion 

Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be a daunting task if you follow these simple steps! Sweeping away debris, washing with warm soapy water, and scrubbing away stains and mold are all key components of giving your deck or patio a deep clean this season – just remember most importantly not to forget letting it dry completely before staining! Following these tips can help ensure your outdoor space looks great all summer long!