Running into issues with your wooden deck in Great Falls? You are not alone. Between our humid Upstate summers and the heavy red clay soil holding onto moisture right up against your posts, wood decks here take a beating. Over the years running Paramount Deck Solutions, we have heard just about every question a homeowner can ask about keeping their outdoor space standing strong.
How often do I really need to stain my wooden deck?
Every two to three years is the honest baseline for our climate. If your deck sits out in the blazing sun near the Catawba River without a scrap of shade, you might need a clear sealer or semi-transparent stain every couple of years. Water should bead up on the wood; if it soaks right in and darkens the boards, your protection is gone and it is time for a new coat before the wood starts cracking. For homes in Great Falls, Paramount Deck Solutions provides deck staining services that keep your wood protected against the weather.
Why is my deck board cupping and warping?
Moisture is the main culprit. Wood expands when it gets wet from our heavy afternoon thunderstorms and shrinks as it bakes under the July sun. If your joist spacing is too wide or the boards were not fastened down right, they are going to cup. Good ventilation underneath and proper fastening go a long way in preventing this headache. We provide deck repair services for homes and businesses in Great Falls.
Can I pressure wash my wooden deck without ruining it?
You can, but you have to be careful. Turn the pressure way down or keep the nozzle far enough away that you do not fuzz up the wood fibers. Too many people blast their decks at high psi and end up scarring the soft springwood, which just creates a rough surface that holds dirt and splinters your bare feet. Paramount Deck Solutions provides deck maintenance services for Great Falls, SC.
What's the best way to get rid of green algae and mildew?
Skip the harsh bleach mixtures that kill your surrounding landscaping. A simple oxygen bleach cleaner mixed with water works wonders on organic growth without trashing your flower beds. Scrub it gently with a soft-bristle brush and rinse it off thoroughly. For Great Falls homes, Paramount Deck Solutions is here for all your deck cleaning needs.
How do I know if my deck is actually unsafe?
Look at the connections. If your ledger board is pulling away from the house, or if the posts resting near damp ground show signs of soft rot when you poke them with a screwdriver, you have got structural trouble. Surface cracks are usually fine, but wobbling railings and decayed framing mean it is time to call in some help. The work will hold up for many years in the Great Falls climate.
Should I fix loose boards with nails or screws?
Always use screws. Nails pop up over time as the wood cycles through wet and dry seasons, leaving sharp hazards sticking up for someone to step on. Exterior-grade star-drive deck screws will actually hold things tight for the long haul. Call Paramount Deck Solutions for deck work in Great Falls, SC.