An unsafe deck is hazardous to bare feet or hands. Splinters, rotted wood or soft spots indicate the need for repairs or replacement of your deck.
If your damage-proof deck Adelaide is made from traditional wood, the damage will eventually occur. One way to reduce this risk is by sealing your deck annually with sealant.
Waterproof
Waterproofing your deck is an integral component of maintaining its condition. Over time, wear and tear cause wood to lose its protective layers; even with appropriate water-resistant stains or lacquers applied regularly, most decks require waterproofing every one to three years for optimal performance – an albeit easy process!
Before embarking on your waterproofing process, your damage-proof deck Adelaide must be thoroughly cleaned. Vacuum or sweep the surface, remove furniture, potted plants and tables; ensure there are no loose leaves or other debris which could obstruct waterproofing efforts; also be mindful of any popped nails or screws and any rough patches which might lead to splinters – these should all be addressed as part of this initial step.
Once your deck is clear of debris, apply a high-quality mould and mildew-resistant, water-based sealant with UV protection to provide mould and mildew resistance and UV protection. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application, applying additional coats if necessary before leaving it to dry completely before reusing your deck.
Fire-Resistant
Fire-resistant decks help mitigate the risks of house fires caused by wildfire embers, which are known to spread quickly and cause major property damage. A home improvement professional may recommend spraying flame retardant on or adding metal sheathing to prevent these embers from spreading further; alternatively, all combustible materials should be cleared away from underneath or above your deck structure to ensure maximum fireproofing effectiveness.
Location is also of vital importance when choosing where to construct a deck. Decks atop slopes are more likely to be damaged by brush fires as fire burns more rapidly uphill, and radiative heat can pre-heat combustible fuels more readily, igniting them and leading to more frequent fire outbreaks and damage. Therefore, locating it somewhere flat, away from vegetation and debris, would be wiser for optimal deck construction.
Durable
Material choice plays a significant role in how long and what kind of maintenance your deck requires, with some types of wood lasting longer and thus increasing maintenance costs over time.
No matter the kind of wood your deck is made from, waterproofing is essential if you want it to last and look its best for as long as possible. Water damage will lead to splintering, cracking and the growth of mould and fungi; to avoid this from happening correctly, drain your deck surface and install gutters to redirect water away from its structure. You can also prevent corrosion of deck connectors using products like PolyWall Rot Shield Joist Tape, which acts as a moisture and debris barrier between non-corrosive galvanised metal hangers and treated wood joists, rim joists and ledger boards to help prevent structurally damaging rot from happening over time.
Affordable
Damage-proof deck Adelaide provides the ideal outdoor space for entertaining, relaxing and dining – not to mention sunbathing or planting flowers and bushes! To best use your deck space, you must devise a comprehensive plan and select materials according to your needs and budget.
Pressure-treated wood is the least costly choice for flooring, offering excellent rot resistance, stainability and lightweight design. If you prefer more of a natural aesthetic, cedar may be ideal as it naturally resists decay, insects and decay while eventually turning greyish-toned over time. For long-term durability and resilience, consider rainforest or rare hardwoods such as Ipe. It doesn’t require regular staining and will remain beautiful.
Composite decking, composed of recycled wood by-products and plastics, requires low maintenance but still looks natural if maintained annually with cleaning. Hiring professional help when building and installing your deck will prevent issues like hitting utility lines, which could cost considerable fines.
Once your deck is complete, it’s essential to add furniture to create an enjoyable outdoor seating area. A sectional sofa, soft chairs with cushions and an outdoor rug are imperative pieces that add colour and style. Plus, you could train some pretty climbing plants to hang from its railing for added greenery!