Month: March 2015

For many people, their deck is simply an extension of their home. The freedom to barbeque, spend time outside, and host parties are some of the best parts of owning a home with a deck. You probably don’t think about how much you actually value that part of your home until something happens, like weather damage. Fortunately, most forms of weather damage can be fixed with some sweat and elbow grease.

Controlling Moisture & Mildew for the Long-Term

Wooden decks are often most at risk for weather damage and should be treated accordingly. Before you can protect your deck for the long-term, you have to first deal with the problem at hand. Winter weather can be brutal for wooden decks, particularly when snow accumulates for long periods of time. The best time to deal with weather damage is when the snow is officially gone for the season.

To start, use a plastic shovel to clear the snow and ice from your deck. This will reduce the impact on the wood and prevent any unnecessary damage. The snow should be cleared as soon as possible because wood can begin to warp if it is exposed to moisture for too long.

Although tempting, avoid applying any salt or chemical products on your deck. It can seem beneficial, but over time, these products can weaken your deck. Sealing your deck is the best way to combat mildew and moisture.

If mildew developed during the winter, you may need to use a removal solution to remove it. The simplest solution includes water, oxygen bleach, and soap. Apply this to your deck and let it sit for 20 minutes. Simply spray it with water, scrubbing certain areas if necessary.

Finally, it is time to seal your deck from future damage. Consult with a Chicago deck company before beginning to ensure that you are using the right product. Rid your deck of debris by sweeping or pressure washing. Using a roller, apply the sealant over the entire deck. It is important to allow the sealant to dry completely, or you may have to repeat the process.

Repairing a weather-damaged deck can be labor-intensive and many homeowners simply don’t have the time to do it themselves. If you find yourself in a similar situation, don’t hesitate to call the team at Fence Masters! We would be delighted to help you repair your deck and seal it for longevity. Contact us today!

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Weather in Illinois can be extreme, with freezing temperatures and snow in the winter, and the risk of serious storms during other parts of the year. Unfortunately, this can do serious damage to your home and create the need for costly repairs. Because fences are so exposed to the elements, they can be one of the first things to suffer the brunt of the weather.

No matter what material your fence is made out of, it is not uncommon for it to need a tune-up or more extensive repairs at some point during the year. You may be able to accomplish some of the work yourself and in the event that you need professional assistance, our Chicago fence repair company is here to help.

Repairing Your Fence & Protecting It from Future Damage

In decades past, wood fences were by far the most common for homeowners. Today, materials have become more varied and often include vinyl, wrought iron, aluminum, and chain-link. Wooden fences can be most susceptible to damage, but maintaining them throughout the year is critical for their longevity and sustainability.

When you first notice that your fence has sustained damage, it is important to inspect the areas that may need repairs. How significant is the damage? Is it something you can handle on your own? In most cases, quicker is always better when it comes to fence repairs.

Next, gather your supplies. Acquire everything you’ll need at the same time – the last thing you want is to be stuck without an important supply in the middle of your repair project. More serious repairs may require you to order parts online before you begin.

While you’re actually working on the fence, take your time to ensure that no step gets skipped in the process. Consult with a professional if you are ever concerned about a certain aspect of your repairs. At Fence Masters, we have more than 30 years of experience and can use our expertise to properly maintain your fence.

Get in touch with us today for affordable, world-class service!

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