The deck is the place that many homeowners love to be. It’s where they spend a lot of their time and visit every day. A deck can make all the difference in your home, depending on how you build it. If you don’t take care of it and maintain it each year, you may have to replace it more frequently than necessary, which is costly and time-consuming. However, with a little bit of maintenance and some repairs now and then, a deck can last you for years without getting dirty or wearing.
Your roof, on the other hand, is an essential part of your home, protecting the inside from harsh weather like rain and snow. A damaged roof can cause leaks and lead to other more serious problems. It’s important to keep an eye on it and ensure it’s in good condition.
How Often to Inspect Your Roof and Deck
If you live in an area with a lot of rain, it’s important to ensure that your roof and deck are in top condition. Getting a roofing contractor to inspect both yearly is a good idea, especially if you have noticed some damage or wear. They will give you an honest estimate of what needs to be done and what doesn’t. Sometimes, it may just be one small problem, but fixing it before it becomes big will save you lots of money going forward.
On the other hand, if you live in a place that’s on the dry side and don’t get much snow or rain, then you may not have to do regular inspections. But if you notice any damage or wear, then it’s best to have a roofing contractor give you an estimate of what needs to be done to decide whether to repair or replace. Also, if there is any stain or mark on your deck or roof, there are some things you can do yourself to prevent it from becoming a problem.
Clean Your Deck and Roof
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make when they build is not cleaning their new decks and roofs properly. Dust is a huge issue; without proper cleaning, the deck or roof can get stained. It’s best to use a special cleaner that seals the wood and won’t fade it. But it’s also important to ensure that you are using the right kind of cleaners for your wood because some cleaners are not good for decks due to the oil they contain. Your roof also needs thorough cleaning at least once a year so that all dirt and grime get washed off.
Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
A good rain gutter and downspout system will prevent water from damaging the structure of your home. If you notice water leaking into places it shouldn’t be, you may have a problem with your gutters. It’s best first to ensure that the gutters are in good condition, then clean them thoroughly at least once a year.
Be Aware of Problems
A good deck or roof may be well-built and look great, but if there is any damage or wear to the structure, it could lead to problems in the future. If you live in a place with harsh weather, you will want to inspect your roof and deck at least once a year. If there is any damage or wear, it’s best to get an estimate of what repairs are needed so that they’re not waiting for you later on down the line.
Act Quickly on Repairs
A roof and deck can only last so long before they have to be replaced. A little maintenance every year can prevent larger problems down the line if they’re not fixed in time. If a problem is more serious, you should have it repaired immediately; waiting until it gets worse may not be the best option.
A good roof and deck can make a house look fabulous and inviting. It’s important to take the time to inspect them at least once a year. Always make sure that they’re in good shape and ready for anything. If there is any damage or wear, you will want to have repairs done as soon as possible to prevent larger problems.
Author Bio
Anita is a freelance writer from Denver, CO. She studied at Colorado State University, and now writes articles about health, business, family, and finance. A mother of two, she enjoys traveling with her family whenever she isn’t writing. You can follow her on Twitter @anitaginsburg.