GARDEN DESIGN
ADVISING ON DECKING MAINTENANCE
If you ’ re in the landscaping trade , one of the frequent concerns that project owners have about installing decking is that it requires regular maintenance . It is always good practice to manage client expectations from the start – nothing is truly maintenance free , but the degree of maintenance depends on what you choose to install . Providing the project owner with the information they need to make informed decisions about what ’ s best for them can really set you apart from other suppliers .
How often does decking need to be ‘ maintained ’
Whatever decking material is used , it is always a good idea to observe a few rules and preventative measures all the time , rather than just once a year :
• Use a stiff outdoor broom to remove debris from the surface . Algae will grow on surfaces where there is light , moisture and nutrition so best to avoid any build up .
• Like any surface , quickly remove anything likely to stain , such as cooking fat , berries or animal droppings .
• Be aware that decking placed underneath trees may result in sap on the boards which is difficult to remove , as well as frequent bird droppings !
• Cushioning the feet of outdoor furniture can help prevent scratches
• Placing a firepit / chimenea / brazier directly on the boards can result in damage – use a scorch proof material , just in case .
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