Many times we get so used to our surroundings that we don’t realize what we have or that things have fallen into disrepair. This state of affairs doesn’t necessarily demand the creation of new spaces. Often we can remedy the situation by “re-creating” our outdoor spaces.
Tired Old Decks/Patios
Pressure Washing. You would be surprised what a good pressure washing will do for old Deck/Patio surfaces. This can be a good DIY weekend project or there are good, reputable companies that specialize in Deck/Patio cleaning and renewal services. Be sure to use an eco-friendly detergent as some detergents, while very effective at cleaning your Deck/Patio surface, will be very harmful to your plants and grass. You also need to be very careful with the amount of pressure you use and how close you hold the hose nozzle to the Deck/Patio surface. Too much pressure at a close proximity to the Deck surface will destroy your Deck boards or Patio surface. A weekend Deck cleaning project could turn into a nightmare replacement project real quick if you are not careful.
It is a good idea to test on an inconspicuous area before going too wild with the cleaning. You want to make sure that the pressure you are using will not be chewing out bits and pieces of the Deck boards or the Patio bricks/pavers or concrete surface. Depending on the age and condition of the Deck/Patio material, it is a real possibility that there could be damage from the cleaning process. Work slowly across the area and adjust the level of pressure and closeness of the nozzle as you go; each area may vary in its tolerance for pressure.
If you do not own a pressure washing machine, you can easily rent one from your local tool rental store. Make sure you know how to operate the machine before leaving the store, especially how to regulate the pressure. Most places also will have the detergent available for you as well.
If you don’t feel that this is something you want to tackle alone, please don’t hesitate to contact a professional Deck renewal service. They have the tools and the experience to give your tired old Deck/Patio that new feel without the major investment of replacement.
Next Time… Recreating Outdoor Spaces: #2 Accessorizing Your Space
Q&A&C – Questions and Answers and Comments are expected and welcomed.
YOUR STORY – Tell us about your remodeling experiences, good or bad. We all have had them and perhaps you can help someone else have a great remodeling experience or avoid the issues that you encountered. Remember…keep it clean and civil or we can’t publish it.