Congratulations if you chose PVC for your deck installation! Opting for PVC decking and railings not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home but also offers a low-maintenance solution compared to traditional materials. For homeowners who have chosen the durability and beauty of PVC for their outdoor living spaces, you may be wondering what post-installation care looks like. Today, we at Simpson Decks will take you through the specifics of PVC deck maintenance and railing maintenance, providing you with all the information needed to keep your outdoor oasis pristine and welcoming for years to come.
The Simplicity of PVC Deck Maintenance
Crafted from a blend of polyvinyl chloride, PVC decking is a revolutionary invention that doesn’t succumb to the failures of traditional wood. Unlike wood, PVC decking is not susceptible to issues like rot, decay, and insect damage. Instead, it resists moisture and won’t swell, warp, or split over time.
If you have ever handled wood structures outside, you know what a challenge they can be to maintain. That’s why the simplicity of deck maintenance for PVC decking has pushed this material to the top of most homeowners’ lists in decking materials. Here in the Pacific Northwest, PVC decking is ideal for homeowners searching for low-maintenance, durable decking solutions, as it can take the brunt of what Mother Nature throws our way each year without fail! On top of that, PVC decking can last up to 50 years if properly cared for, making it a valuable home investment for those looking to sell in the future.
Cleaning and Protecting Your PVC Deck and Railings
To showcase how easy it is to perform deck maintenance for PVC decking, let’s dive into the specifics. Unlike traditional wood, which regularly needs to be sanded, sealed, and stained, PVC decking requires minimal upkeep.
All you have to do is a simple cleaning routine of water and environmentally friendly soap once a season, and you are all set! Just make sure to avoid abrasive materials that could scratch the surface!
To perform a cleaning, we suggest starting with a soft-bristled broom to sweep away any large debris and pick up any human trash. Next, use a garden hose to wash away the worst of the grime and pollen. Lastly, gently scrub the deck and railings with a soft brush or cloth using that soap and water mixture. Then, one last rinse of the deck, and you are all set! Just make sure that your deck has time to dry a bit before inviting guests to prevent any accidental slips!
Protecting your PVC decking requires a regular maintenance routine that promptly addresses any issues that arise. Let’s discuss that next.
The Importance of Routine Inspection Schedule
As a homeowner, you likely have seasonal chore lists to ensure the safety and functionality of your home, from the roofing to the gardens. A key element of post-construction care is adding deck and railing maintenance and inspections to that list. Here is what we suggest you do:
1. Monthly Railing Inspection:
Your railing is a critical safety factor of your deck that needs to be monitored. You never want to risk a loved one falling from your deck due to an insecure railing. To keep your railing in tip-top shape, we suggest performing a quick visual inspection of your railing once a month to make sure nothing seems out of place. If you see any signs of wear and tear, damage, or anything else of concern, ensure railing maintenance is done promptly.
2. Bi-Annual Full Deck Check:
Next, we suggest conducting a thorough inspection of your deck twice a year, typically in the spring and fall, as these are the perfect transition seasons in and out of winter. You will want to thoroughly scan your entire deck, from top to bottom (yes, looking up at your deck from underneath if you can), to check for any cracks, missing equipment, or issues with the railings. Check your PVC deck maintenance guide or user manual for a full guide on what to do. If you do not have one, ask your installation team for a checklist.
3. Seasonal Cleaning:
Lastly, a good clean once a season is all that is needed for PVC decking. Soap, water, and a little elbow grease will help wash away dirt, pollen, sap, and other natural elements that may have accumulated on your deck throughout the season. Not only will this help to keep your decking looking clean and beautiful, but it can also help to prevent any slip-and-fall accidents.
To ensure that none of these tasks get forgotten, we suggest creating a maintenance log for your deck. If you have a home maintenance binder, we recommend adding it and making note of inspections, cleanings, and any issues that were addressed. Whether it’s a loose screw or a minor crack, keeping track of everything can go a long way in ensuring you have a full understanding of your deck, and you can pass that along to a new homeowner if you ever sell.
Psst… Pro Tip! We understand that the life of a homeowner is super busy! To ensure you don’t miss any of these steps, we suggest adding a reminder to your phone calendar!
Experience the Simpson Decks Difference
Simpson Decks is synonymous with excellence, offering PVC decks with durability and aesthetic appeal. Praised for our meticulous craftsmanship and quality, we want you to enjoy your PVC deck for years to come. By performing the above suggestions, you can achieve decades of pleasure in your new space.
If you are ready to protect and preserve your PVC deck with ease, contact Simpson Decks and Construction for expert advice on post-installation care and enjoy a beautiful, long-lasting outdoor space.
Let us help you create a safe and beautiful outdoor living space for your family and friends. We also provide composite deck installation, deck repair, pergola installation, and patio cover installation services.