Whether you do it yourself or call in the professionals, these preparation tips can help you ensure that your outdoor rooms are ready for action.
Moss Removal
While moss can add a touch of beauty to your outdoor space, it can also be difficult to remove once it takes hold. Outdoor areas can quickly become overrun with moss, particularly if they are in shady or damp areas. It’s important to deal with moss quickly, in the following ways:
- Use an eco-friendly moss removal product on all surfaces. Some of these products are “spray on and wait” which can take quite some time to work—while others are used with a scrubbing brush or pressure washer, to remove loose and unsightly organic growth. Be sure to protect your potted plants and surfaces if using a pressure cleaner.
- For stubborn patches of moss, mix up a solution of water mixed with vinegar, bleach or dish soap—and apply it with a pump sprayer. Allow the solution to sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it away with clean water.
- If you have pavers or stone surfaces, you can use a wire brush or putty knife to scrape away any remaining moss.
Pressure Washing
Pressure washing your deck can be a great way to freshen it up and extend its life. However, it’s important to be careful when pressure washing, as it’s easy to damage the timber. A skilled operator can use the pressure washer in combination with the correct cleaning solution to clean your deck without damaging it. However, if you’re not experienced with using a pressure washer, it’s easy to splinter the wood fibres or leave noticeable stop/start marks in the timber. If you’re not sure how to pressure wash your deck without damaging it, we suggest hiring a professional to do the job for you.
Stain Top Coat
If your decking has been stained, it is very important to add a top up coat every 12 to 18 months in order to maintain both the nourishing oil levels and the UV blocking properties. Stain is essentially a tinted oil and will naturally deplete over time. If the timber has turned a grey colour, this means that the surface fibres have been UV damaged and will no longer absorb new applications of stain. In this situation, a full restoration will be required.
Outdoor Furniture
Hardwood furniture is a beautiful addition to any home, but it does require some regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. An annual top-up coat of oil or stain is essential to keep the timber nourished and protected from UV damage. Without this, the timber will dry out and turn an unsightly grey, as well as causing splinters. However, with just a little bit of care, hardwood furniture can last for many years and provide a stunning focal point for your outdoor living area.
Concrete Sealer
Pathways and outdoor areas made from concrete pavers can really enhance the look of your space. They are also a practical solution for high traffic areas, provide good drainage and are low maintenance.
It’s important to seal your pavers with quality products designed for concrete. This will waterproof the surface, protect from weather conditions and inhibit the growth of mould and mildew. Once installed, pavers will need to be cleaned and sealed on a regular basis to keep them looking their best.
Artificial Grass
If you have artificial grass in an outdoor area, it’s important to have an annual maintenance check: especially if it’s being used where there’s lots of foot traffic e.g. a play area. This process includes the removal of any weeds from fallen seeds, topping up the infill sand levels, checking any seams for movement, and brushing up the pile.
If you need help or inspiration maintaining or upgrading an outdoor room, view our previous work or give Deck&FencePro a call. We’ll provide a comprehensive free quote, with no obligation to you.
