Before you start deck styling, there are a few things that must be done.

Each year, after every winter, we begin to feel like we’d rather be outside than in. The sun is shinning, the flowers are blooming, and there are wafts of barbecue lingering in the air. Immediately you feel the urge to uncover the grill, break out the patio furniture, and start deck styling by bringing out the raised garden boxes.

But before you do, there are some very important tasks you need to undertake to ensure the life of your deck. Whether you have a traditional wood or composite deck doesn’t matter. Either can last for twenty- five years or more with proper maintenance. Providing decades of outdoor meals and family time.

Preparations For Deck Styling:

We all like to style our decks with outdoor rugs, string lights and candles, cushions and benches, etc. Because these are the objects that make us feel that we’ve extended our homes into the outdoors. We’ve blended nature with all the comforts of home. But Fall and Winter created a mess of leaves and dirt on your deck that can surprisingly cause damage over time. Here’s what you need to do:

1.) Clear the entire deck

This means everything. Leave no grill, plant, or chair behind. You want to see what you’re working with. Then you want to sweep away any leaves, debris, and of course dirt blown in on one of those windy days.

2.) Deep Clean

You’ll want to pressure clean, or at least hose off your deck to get off anything too stubborn to be removed with a broom. Then, get a bucket of soapy water and use a hard bristled deck brush to scrub the entirety of the deck. Hose the surface again and let air dry.

3.) Inspect

You need to check for rot, termites, rails sticking up, or any other damage to the deck boards. This is especially important if your deck is low to the ground or has direct contact with the ground. The moisture from the grass and dirt below the deck can easily cause moisture to buildup within the wood, causing rot. Also check for whether or not your deck needs to be resealed. It is a good rule of thumb to reseal every two years.

4.) Repairs

If you notice any damage, even things like a broken handrail, get them fixed now while it is still fresh on your mind. This is also a good time to get done anything that bothered you last year. If you want more lights, then string them. Or install lights onto the steps or railing. If you want to paint, or re-stain with a new and darker color, then do it.

Then, you can start styling.

Tips for styling your deck.

 Styling a deck is relatively simple. Most people don’t go above and beyond. Requiring nothing more than some patio furniture and a grill, maybe some lights. But there are other easy things you can put out, that add an extra layer of comfort.

1.) lights

Lights will add warmth and serenity to your outdoor space while also serving a function. You’ll be able to stay outside to enjoy the outdoors longer with the proper lighting. There are dozens of styles of lanterns you could choose from. Everything from lighthouse style, barn style, wicker and hand-woven, moroccan, french, etc. You could also go with rope lights or string lights attached to the deck rail or strung overhead. Whatever you choose, it is truly worth it.

2.) Plants

They don’t have to just be in your garden. Add a little color to your deck with a few planters.

3.) Decor

Think outdoor rug, throw pillows, and blankets. These are just a few extra comforts that make your deck feel more like an outdoor room you can lounge in for all day.

If you’d like help planning your deck out, give Rocky Mountain Forest Products a call at 303-502-9402.