Maintaining your home’s exterior requires regular effort throughout the year. Some tasks, such as mowing the lawn, may be needed regularly throughout a significant portion of the year and are easy to remember to do. Other tasks should be completed annually, and these tasks may be easier to overlook because of their infrequency. One of these exterior maintenance projects that may be easy to overlook involves cleaning the deck annually. However, this is an important tasks that offers several benefits. There are a few essential reasons why this project should be completed on schedule.

Maintain a Safe Surface

Because your deck is exposed to the elements daily, it can accumulate a significant amount of dirt and grime over time. This may include a layer of dust, pollen and other fine particulates that increases with each passing day. Mold or mildew may also begin to grow on shaded areas. With these elements present, the deck can become very slippery when it is wet. The risk of slipping on this surface may be higher unless you take steps to thoroughly clean the deck regularly. In addition to you and your family members potentially getting hurt, you may also face liability risks if a guest slips and falls.

Prepare for Staining or Sealing

The condition of wood decks may be detrimentally impacted by exposure to the elements. Decks are usually stained or sealed as part of the construction process in an effort to reduce exposure to the elements. However, stains and seals can wear off and leave your deck vulnerable. Exposure may lead to premature aging, splintering and other effects. In many instances, a deck should be re-stained or resealed annually to promote longevity. Part of the application process for stains or seals requires thoroughly cleaning the surface.

Improve Aesthetics

Another important reason to schedule deck cleaning service annually is to improve aesthetics. When dirt, mildew and other elements accumulate, the deck can look filthy. This can combine with the look of weathered wood that may even begin to splinter. The result is a deck that may not be pleasing to spend time on. Simply cleaning this surface annually can improve aesthetics significantly.

While some people will simply hose off their deck, this does not provide the thorough results that are needed. A better idea is to complete deck cleaning with a power washer. Mold and mildew may also need to be professionally treated and scrubbed. Professional cleaning service is available to help you save time and energy, and it may also produce more thorough results. Now is a great time to inspect the condition and cleanliness of your deck so that you can determine which maintenance steps are necessary at this time.