Seasonal deck maintenance isn’t just a chore; it’s essential to prepare to keep your outdoor space looking its best! Regular maintenance not only enhances the beauty of your deck but also extends its lifespan, giving your high-quality Thermory deck the care it deserves. By addressing cleaning, sealing, and inspections throughout the seasonal deck care cycle, you can protect your investment from harsh elements like snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, ensuring that your deck remains a stunning oasis year-round.
Regular maintenance requirements can vary based on the product line, but no matter which you choose, all Thermory boards offer excellent rot resistance and stability—so you can select any style with confidence!
What our team recommends:
1. Inspect Your Wood Deck for Damage
- Look for cracks, splinters, and warping: Thermory can show small stress cracks, normally not wider than 1/16” – a natural occurrence with all wood. The surface of correctly installed Thermory boards will always swell and shrink faster than its core, potentially causing these hairline cracks. Regular application of a penetrating oil, such as CUTEK Extreme or other similar products can help minimize these natural occurrences.
- Check for loose screws or nails: Inspect your deck every season for any loose hardware. Secure them promptly to prevent injuries and maintain the integrity of your deck.
2. Clean and Remove Debris
- Sweep away leaves, dirt, and debris: It is important to keep the surface clean and free of leaves, pine needles, tree sap, air-borne pollen, and debris which can hold moisture and attract mold and mildew.
- Wash with a wood cleaning product and warm water: Spray the surface with a garden hose set to a gentle setting. Use low water pressure —high water pressure can create noticeable unevenness on the wood’s surface.
- Thermory Pro Tip: Make sure that your deck is completely dry before you continue with any more maintenance work!
3. Seasonal Maintenance
- Seal or treat your deck: We recommend using a penetrating oil such as CUTEK Extreme annually, especially if you’re in an area with extreme temperatures: snow and ice, strong UV rays, and moisture.
- Thermory Pro Tip: If it’s time for a new deck, consider factory finishing prior to installing to oil all sides of the board and help slow the aging process!
- Touch-ups: If you’ve allowed your wood to age to silver and miss the original color, getting it back is easier than you think! Clean the surface with a wood brightening cleaner, wait until the wood is completely dry (a minimum of 24 hours), and then apply a fresh coat of UV protectant oil. Reapply oil annually or as needed to maintain color and protection.
4. Ensure the Longevity of Your Deck
- Maintain proper water drainage: Look for any areas where water may pool or drain improperly around the deck, especially during cold weather.
- Trim nearby plants: Keeping plants and shrubs at a distance will reduce moisture buildup.
- Thermory Pro Tip: Our thermal modification process helps prevent mold and decay, but maintaining good ventilation is key!
5. Prepare Furniture and Accessories
- Store or cover outdoor furniture: If possible, move furniture, planters, and decor inside during the off-seasons to prevent discoloration and indentations.
- Thermory Pro Tip: When moving items, keep an eye out for scratches or dents; Thermory is durable, but prevention is always best!
A little care goes a long way in keeping your high-quality Thermory deck in shape! By inspecting for damage, cleaning debris, and preparing for the whims of winter, you can ensure your deck stays as stunning as the day it was installed. Remember, even the most durable materials need a bit of love – and regular maintenance is key.
So, roll up your sleeves and keep that deck looking sharp—because a well-maintained deck leads to more sunny days enjoying your outdoor paradise!
