If you are looking for a peaceful place to relax this summer, you do not even have to leave your home. Outdoor decks provide a comfortable oasis. However, because decks are exposed to harsh elements, they require annual maintenance.

Don’t turn your back on your less-than-excellent deck this summer. Read the following tips to turn your deck into a place you can entertain yourself and guests:

• Wash your deck. Washing your deck will eliminate the mold that can trap moisture and cause your deck to rot. You can use any standard cleaner for a wood deck. A power sprayer is a great way to remove dirt and grime. For mold and mildew, you can create your own cleaning solution by mixing half bleach, half water and a little elbow grease with a scrub brush to clean those areas. It is best to clean the deck on a cloudy day so the sun won’t evaporate the cleaner.
• Clean and reseal your deck every year. One of the biggest problems your deck faces is moisture.  If you’re noticing that your deck allows moisture to bead up, you have no problem. If water soaks in on your deck, it’s time to reseal.
• Inspect and make repairs. Look for cracked or rotten boards. If you find any damaged, replace those pieces. If the decking was nailed, you may find some nail heads popping out. A temporary solution is to hammer the nails back in, but permanently you should pull the nails out and drive in a deck screw longer than the nail.
• Keep your deck clear of leaves and cut trees back away from the deck. This will prevent mold and rotted decking. Don’t let debris pile up in any corners either. Keep the deck clear of leaves during the fall season.

Wooden decks can be a center of relaxation and comfort for your family. Relax this summer and enjoy your deck with the company of family and friends.