Subscribe and receive email notifications of new blog posts.
RSS Feed
- 2024 | 10 Posts
- 2023 | 48 Posts
- 2022 | 42 Posts
- 2021 | 22 Posts
- 2020 | 48 Posts
- 2019 | 45 Posts
- 2018 | 52 Posts
- 2017 | 110 Posts
- 2016 | 78 Posts
- 2015 | 7 Posts
3
Sellers: Does Your Deck Need an Overhaul?
The march toward summer is well underway, and it's time to turn your attention to the deck outside your home. As the weather warms up, our REALTORS® know the deck is one of the first things prospective buyers of Mansfield and Ashland homes for sale will look at as their thoughts turn to summer BBQs and time with family and friends. If your deck needs an overhaul, you'll want to act quickly before local contractors run out of time to do the work for you.
-
Start with a Wash
Dirt, dust, and grime can obscure the true condition of your deck. Watch the weather for a sunny, wind-free period to give your deck a good scrub and a deep clean with soap and a powerwasher. Make sure to follow instructions and keep the powerwasher at a safe distance from the wood to avoid scoring and damaging it. If you come across any stubborn stains or debris stuck in crevices, a stiff brush and a putty knife can usually remove it. -
Get the Right Tools and Do Work the Right Way
Always use the right brushes and cleaning agents. Make sure to avoid using bleach and harsh chemical cleaners, and don't forget to cover bushes, shrubbery, flower beds, etc., beside the deck. This will help protect them from debris and damage as you work. Whether you have a redwood, composite, teak, or another type of deck, make sure the cleaners and cleaning strategies you use won't damage the deck. -
Kick the Posts and Tighten the Screws
Give the deck a thorough inspection. Gently kick and test posts, planks, stairs, and guardrails for strength and stability. Likewise, tighten any screws or fittings on the deck. As you inspect the deck, mark any soft spots, rotten wood, loose boards, etc., that need repairing. You should replace any rotten wood as this can pose a considerable safety hazard; it can also be a harbinger of significant structural problems that will need further inspection. -
Pull Out the Sander
Many decks can be completely refreshed with a good sanding. Sanding will remove surface stains and create a stable surface to apply fresh coats of stain and sealant. Investing the elbow grease required to finish this task is well worth the investment as you will have a deck that looks brand new when the work is done. -
But Know When to Fold 'Em
As the song says, you have to know when to hold 'em and know when to fold 'em. Decks have a limited lifespan. Both treated and untreated decks will fall apart as they age, will few decks lasting longer than 30 years. When the repair list (and the bill!) for your deck gets to a certain length, you have two options: Either replace it with a new deck or offer to include a new deck of the buyer's choice as an incentive. The latter option can be a considerable selling point as it allows the buyer to add a deck customize to their desires.
Contact us for more information about the maintenance and steps you can take to create a deck that buyers will fall in love with. It's our pleasure to tell you about the decks and other features buyers are eager to enjoy as summer draws near.
Privacy Policy / DMCA Notice / ADA Accessibility
