Prep Your Deck for Summer

Quick Tips to Solve Six Common Deck Dilemmas

Deck Dilemma #1 - Loose nails exposed above the deck's surface

Solution: Loose nails create hazards, especially for children and pets. In fact, nearly 10 percent of Americans believe that their decks are unsafe because of exposed nails. For a smooth deck surface that is completely free of any type of nails or fasteners, consider a wood-alternative material like Trex Brasilia® with its proprietary Hideaway™ Hidden Fastening System for the ultimate in worry-free outdoor relaxation. If you currently own a wood deck, inspect the boards to find any protruding nail heads. Hammer them down, or replace them with galvanized screws that are approximately ½-inch longer than the original nails.

Deck Dilemma # 2 – Dull, dingy deck surface

Solution: As with all outdoor surfaces, dirt and debris can build up on your deck, making it drab and unsightly. The best way to combat this unwanted accumulation is through periodic cleaning – especially before the summer and winter months. Conventional deck cleaners are safe for use on wood decks, but it also may be necessary to purchase or rent a power washer – resulting in additional cost and time. However, it's easy to maintain the beauty of a Trex deck. A simple, semi-annual cleaning with soap, water and a stiff-bristled brush is all that's needed to keep dirt and debris at bay.

Deck Dilemma #3 – Scuffs and abrasions from furniture or foot traffic

Solution: It's no wonder that half of all Americans are not satisfied with the appearance of their decks, since it can be so easy to accumulate unsightly scuffs. The good news is that with a wood-alternative deck from Trex, scuffs and abrasions will naturally fade or disappear during the weathering process that takes place in the weeks immediately following installation. Consider new Trex Escapes®, which is constructed of revolutionary cellular PVC technology for unsurpassed durability. While it's important to wash, stain and seal wood decks in advance of warm weather to keep them looking pristine, it's much less time consuming to prep Trex Escapes for summer. Just add a little soap and water, and you're ready to kick back and relax.

Deck Dilemma #4 – Oil and grease stains

Solution: BBQ sauce is delicious, but not when it's coating your deck. Try scrubbing stains with a household de-greasing agent (ideally as soon as it occurs), and then rinse thoroughly with hot water. See our Cleaning Guide for more information.

Deck Dilemma #5 – Mold and mildew

Solution: Mold and mildew are the enemies of any exterior surface – especially shady decks exposed to pollen or other organic debris and moisture. Problem areas typically are where water stands for periods of time or where puddles form under potted plants. Sweeping away pools of water and periodically cleaning the deck surface creates a first line of defense against mold and mildew. These actions prevent the creation of an environment that nurtures the growth of fungus. Use conventional deck washes or cleaners that contain sodium hypochlorite (bleach) and detergent such as those listed in our Mold Bulletin.

Deck Dilemma #6 – Splintering boards

Solution: Summer fun should be ouch-free, but splintering boards could leave barefoot outdoor revelers with painful splinters of their own. If you love the authentic charm of wood, but don’t want to spend hours sanding and replacing damaged boards, choose a highly durable wood alternative material like Trex Contours®. It offers a bold grain look without any rotting and splintering – for ultimate barefoot comfort.