With the GrainHome Improvement Tips and Tricks

Some buy homes that are preexisting, and that sometimes means there are unforeseen problems such as rot and other deterioration.  There are other situations where building materials were not properly maintained from year to year.  However the rot occurred, it needs to be addressed immediately.  Here are some links to lead you:

• How to Replace a Damaged Deck Board
• Fixing a Rotted Deck
• How to Replace Rotten Decking
• Repairing Rotted Exterior Wood

Some projects may be relatively small, such as the case of replacing one decking board.  Smaller projects can be handled quickly, and typically in one day.  However, larger projects such as replacing the entire deck, will take some time and an experienced DIYer.  Good luck!

In some areas, rain falls consistently throughout the year.  If this is the case in your area (like mine lately), then you are likely experiencing mold on your deck.  More often than not, this is a surface problem that is relatively easy to address.  However, if the mold sits for too long, getting it all off may not happen.  The best thing to do is follow the following instructions on these sites immediately, rather than letting it sit for too long:

• Wood Deck Maintenance
• Cleaning algae, fungus, and mildew
• Deck Maintenance

To clear mold from our decking, we used plain water and a pressure washer.  While this works as an immediate solution, it doesn’t prevent future growth or kill bacteria.  If the wood is too soft, also, the pressure washer can dig right in.  So, beware before you begin.  Good luck!