Discoloration

Any exterior part of your home that is constantly exposed to the elements is more prone to discoloration. From cold, snowy winters to sunny summertime, it is most likely that water and sunlight will affect the color of your deck over time.

If you notice that your deck is losing its color or fading, you can easily restore your deck to get it looking great again. While this could be a DIY project for some homeowners, it does take some time from the process itself to drying time. You’ll also have to continue to refinish your deck every few years to keep the deck color consistent.

Broken Deck Boards

A broken deck board can be dangerous for anyone using the deck if the problem is left untreated. Broken deck boards are a common problem many homeowners see and experience because of deteriorating materials. This is probably caused by collected moisture added by the extra weight of people who walk around the deck. While getting this deck repair is easy, it’s not something you’ll want to delay repairing.

If you have a broken deck board, get it repaired as soon as possible. Deck board repairs are often cheaper than a full deck replacement. However, let the professionals inspect it and do the work for you. It is also ideal to have your deck inspected so you can know which ones are broken and needs replacing in one go.

Rotting Wood

Most decks are made out of wood, making them susceptible to rot. Again, this problem is probably caused by excess moisture trapped on your deck. Extreme temperature changes also affect and contribute to rotting. Additionally, debris such as leaves, twigs, and branches that are stuck in between boards can cause the wood to be broken down easily. Each of these factors breaks down the wood by allowing bacteria and fungus to break down the wood, ruining the structure of your deck.

Similar to broken boards, you’ll need to replace and repair the broken boards or supports that have been affected by rot. It’s best to contact a professional home contractor who can safely get the job done and help you to prevent any deck rot in the future.

Termite and other pests

The number one enemy of decks is termites. Given that most decks are made with wood, termites are just one of the most common problems that cause deterioration. These tiny insects make their homes by creating tiny tubes in the wood where they make their homes. As wood decks are outside of the home, this leaves them vulnerable to termites. Decks with termite damage will often feel hollow or soft when touched or stepped on, making it dangerous. Termites can also spread to the structure of your home which can cause bigger problems in the long run.

If you suspect you have a termite problem, you’ll need to call a pest control pro who can help you properly get rid of them. Professional home contractors sometimes offer pest control in their services. Others opt to completely change their wood decks to get rid of these insects.

Slippery Decking

Slippery decks mean that molds and mildew are building upon it, causing it to be slippery. The easy solution is for it to be cleaned properly. Power washing is one of the best remedies for this deck problem. You might also want to consider adding non-slip deck paint.

there’s some cleaning to be done. Mold, mildew, moisture, and moss can cause your deck to become a tricky place to walk. But, this is a problem that can be easily remedied. Regular maintenance and cleaning will also prevent your deck from getting slippery. Try to clean your deck about every six months.

Decks are a great addition to your home that has a lot of long-term value. However, if not maintained properly, your deck can not only be a hazard to your resale value but to anyone using at well. Inspect your deck regularly and if you see any of these common deck problems, get it repaired immediately by acquiring the services of a professional home contractor.

SOURCES:

• https://www.improvenet.com/a/common-deck-repairs-when-to-call-a-pro
• https://www.angieslist.com/articles/5-common-deck-problems-and-solutions.htm
• https://www.familyhandyman.com/decks/easy-deck-inspection-and-deck-repair-tips/

However, some might have second thoughts because of the notion that home improvement projects involve spending thousands on hiring contractors and buying supplies and materials. But, don’t fret, experts have listed some of the things you can do your own that will have a significant impact and change on your house’s aesthetics.

Make your front door more inviting

One of the easiest ways of improving your home exterior is by focusing on your main door. Experts suggest repainting, staining, or refinishing it, which will make a huge difference, without blowing your cash.

When deciding on the color, make sure to choose something interesting that will catch your guests’ attention. Select complementary colors so that it will accent your home’s walls.

Clean your sidings

While this project doesn’t really involve remodeling, cleaning your sidings will definitely improve your house’s looks from the outside, especially this winter. Experts highly recommend using oxygenated cleaning products, that are effective, safe, and cheap when cleaning sidings, bricks, or concrete. Homeowners can spray on the solution using a plastic pump-up sprayer and scrub gently using a basic, plastic-bristled cleaning brush.

Install eco-friendly lighting

Now that homes, designers, and contractors are shifting to promote a more ‘green’ approach in remodeling and renovation, one of the best ways to support this cause (and benefit from it as well) is installing solar-powered lamps.

Now, reliable and durable solar lampposts are readily available in the market. This will greatly lower your utility cost, and can be installed with no wirings required. Experts say that the best place for solar lamps is in locations where they’ll get six hours of sun each day, and where they’ll illuminate the walk between the car and the front door.

Refinish your fence, porch, or decks

This is basically your house’s face, so it just makes sense to focus on it when you’re improving your house’s overall exterior look. If you have leftover paint from doing your main door, why not repaint your fences as well? Experts say that one of the most efficient and effective make over ideas for the home exterior is refinishing your deck or fence, as well as your porch.

Before repainting or refinishing, keep in mind that you still need to clean it first to make sure that the new coats and layers of paint will effectively adhere.

Start by applying deck cleaner to the wood, allowing it to sit for 10 minutes before working it in with a stiff, bristled brush. Rinse thoroughly, wait for it to dry, and then apply the water proofer stain or repaint according to your preference.

Here are just some of the DIY exterior projects you can do for your home. However, keep in mind that some projects—like reroofing or changing your windows are not meant to be done on your own. Contact your chosen home exterior contractor to know more about what projects you can do with their help to make sure your property is in its tip-top shape, while looking new and appealing at the same time.

Sources:

• https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/home-improvement/diy-outdoor-projects
• https://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/exteriors/
• https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/rooms-and-spaces/exterior

Yet, others say that it would take a lot of time and effort to make the exterior of your house more appealing, updated, and overall impressive. Despite this misconception, did you know that it takes only simple steps to make your home exterior more attractive? Here are some of the examples how:

Replace or fix your roof

Replacing your roof is a big project, as well as it is a huge investment. In the US, an average homeowner can spend as much as $6,600 to install a new roof. However, it is one of the most effective ways of improving your house exterior. Moreover, this investment will be worth it in the long run if you think about the energy savings, comfort level, warranty, safety and security and curb appeal it will provide.

Change gutters and downspouts

Oftentimes, the house’s gutters and downspouts are overlooked. But, if you inspect them, chances are they’re already suffering from peeling paint, rust spots, or other problems that can convey a sense of neglect. Improving your house’s exterior should include repairing or changing these water systems with newer, updated ones. There are also a variety of options: from snap-fit vinyl gutter systems to copper systems. It all boils down to what you want and what your home needs.

Renew paint or try out new sidings

One of the most budget-friendly ways of doing a home exterior make over is transforming its look through a new paint job or installing new sidings or trim details. It will definitely be a noticeable difference since it covers the most surface of your house. Keep in mind that part of reassuring it looks good is periodic maintenance and inspection. Make sure that any obvious defects, such as cracked or rotting material is immediately changed or repaired.

Go for a grand entrance

Entrance ways and doors are oftentimes the focal point of a house. Make sure that it is eye-catching enough to be interesting, yet matching with the style of the house so that it will not be an eyesore. You can add a few columns and steps if it goes with the style of your home.

Make use of your porch

A front porch can be a big lure for people viewing your home for the first time—be it passersby, guests, or potential buyers. Make it an extension of your house by providing a sitting area on it, depending on the theme of your house. Though the construction maybe a big change that comes with a hefty price tag, the return of investment will also be great. Having a front porch is one of the bigger steps that make your house exterior more attractive because it’s visible from the front of the house, and one of the first things that people see when they arrive.

Good Landscaping

No matter how good looking your home exterior is, if it is covered by trees or by a messy garden, it automatically decreases its curb appeal. On the contrary, a well-groomed garden can instinctively get more attention. Additionally, real estate agents say that good landscaping can increase the value of your home by as much as 20%. One simple way of doing it is eliminating overgrown bushes and plants that are probably obscuring your home. Your landscaping should draw and lead people up to your front entryway, welcoming them in.

Don’t Forget Your Driveway

Driveways can do your home exteriors more favor than what you can imagine. To maximize its visual use, upgrade to tarmac, block paving or even a crazy paving effect.

SOURCES:

• https://www.improvenet.com/a/simple-steps-that-ll-make-your-home-exterior-more-attractive
• http://www.tastefulspace.com/blog/2017/11/06/simple-steps-that-will-make-your-home-exterior-more-attractive/
• http://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/exteriors/curb-appeal/ways-to-add-curb-appeal/
• http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/maintenance-and-repair/repairing/30-tips-for-increasing-your-homes-value
• http://www.worthview.com/simple-steps-thatll-make-home-exterior-attractive/
• https://www.houzz.com/exterior-home-improvement

Clean it up

Throughout the winter, outside clean-up was probably the last thing on your to-do list. Scope out your deck and clear up any leaves, branches, pollen, dirt and other debris that you may find. Doing so will help avoid problems caused by wet leaves, which can trap moisture and lead to mold.

Make any repairs

While you’re clearing away any debris, assess your deck for any damage. Inspect for any cracked or loose boards. If you find any, they will need to be replaced. While this is a project you can tackle yourself, it’s best to let the pros handle deck repairs to keep your deck safe and up to code.

Hose it down

If your deck is only a few years old or newly refinished and you don’t see any major damage, a good wash down will leave it looking good as new. You can use a pressure washer to really dig into the wood and remove stuck-on grime. After rinsing the deck, apply a deck cleaner to help get rid of any tough stains and then reseal for a beautiful finish.

Check for mildew

Examine your deck for any signs of mold or mildew. If you do spot some problem areas, you can easily remove them with a solution of 3 quarts water, 1 quart oxygen bleach, and ¼ cup of ammonia-free liquid dishwasher detergent. Spray the solution onto the stained areas, then use a large push broom to really work the solution into the wood. Allow the solution to sit for 10-15 minutes and then rinse off any residue.

Apply a stain

Once your deck is done with repairs and cleaning, it’s ideal to finish it off with a protective finish. If your deck is relatively new, you can go for a clear finish or transparent stain. If the wood is older you should opt for a semitransparent stain. You will need to use a pump sprayer to apply the base layer and then either a foam roller or paint brush to spread out and evenly distribute the stain.

Longer days and warmer weather are just around the corner. Follow these tips from CertaPro Painters of Northern Colorado Springs to refresh your deck for spring and keep it looking beautiful all season long.