Summer is here and that means you’ll be spending a lot of time outside enjoying the weather. Hosting a summer barbecue is a must, but it can be embarrassing to invite people over if your deck is old, worn out, and uninviting. With these tips, you can transform your deck to a nice space that you’ll want to use as much as possible!

• Start with the foundation. To start the process of reviving your deck; you’ll need to clean it. Start by sweeping away any natural debris like leaves and dirt.  Then, scrub each board with cleaning solution to remove caked in dirt and residue. After this, hose off the solution with water and let the deck dry. Try to do this during a week that will primarily sunny because you want the water to dry completely from the wood.  This process will prepare your deck for a stain or paint job, and if you don’t need to repaint, your deck will still come out looking like new.
• Add some color. Staining the wood with a different finish is a great way to change up the look of your deck. You can buy deck and patio restoration paint in an assortment of colors that will give any deck a unique look. The paint is great because it seals in any splinters and rough edges which save you the time and money to replace the wood altogether.  A sea-foam green shade or a grayish-blue will set your deck apart from the traditional red or brown stains. If you’re going to use a vibrant color, make sure it goes well with the siding on your house; you want your deck color to accent the home exterior color. If you’re having trouble deciding, Griffin painters can help you find the color that’s right for you!
• Light it up. Adding lights to the railings of your deck will make it feel like a warm and inviting space, particularly during summer evenings. Outdoor rope light is the best option for decks because it’s weather resistant and flexible. If you don’t have railings on your deck, try hanging the lights on a fence or around a canopy.
• Make it one with nature. Adding potted plants is a great way to make your deck look alive. You can grow your own little potted garden or plant matching flower beds. Choose pots that accent the color of your deck to create a space which can make it look beautiful, vibrant and alive.
• Compose with comfort. Choose the comfiest outdoor furniture to make your deck more inviting. There are so many great furniture options like lounge chairs, outdoor couches, and patio swings perfect for turning your deck into a lounge! Choosing a pattern for the upholstery on outdoor cushions is important too, as they can really accent the color of your deck and tie the whole space together.

So what are you waiting for? Summer is upon us and it’s time to get out there and spruce up that deck. With these tips you’ll be enjoying your backyard space in no time!