November 2024 – General Heating Air

A deck that isn’t properly maintained can easily develop cracks, splinters and even rot. Regular inspections and timely interventions help prevent these issues from worsening over time.

Walk around the deck and listen for squeaks and feel the wood for soft spots. Poke a screwdriver into areas that seem soft or rotting to verify they aren’t structural problems. Visit https://www.mountjoycompany.com to learn more.

A deck is a great place to relax, host guests and enjoy the outdoors, but it’s important to keep an eye out for any signs of rot that could threaten the safety and structural stability of your deck. Rotting wood is not only a health and safety hazard, but it can also lead to costly repairs.

Check for Soft Wood

One of the most common signs that your deck is in need of repair is soft or spongy wood. This usually indicates dry rot and can be detected by probing the deck surface with a screwdriver. Wood that feels spongy or breaks off without splintering is likely to rot more quickly than other areas of your deck, so it should be replaced as soon as possible.

You should also probe around posts and joists to look for soft wood. If you find any, replace them immediately with pressure-treated or rot-resistant lumber to prevent the spread of rot. You should also check for any signs of rust on the metal pieces that hold the deck together. The more rust, the more damage they have sustained and the more likely they are to be compromised by moisture.

Another sign that your deck is in need of repair is if it appears to be sagging. This is often caused by a rotting support post or joists. You can usually check for this by probing the decking surface and stair stringers with a screwdriver, as this type of soft wood is easy to penetrate. If you notice that a joist is soft, you should remove it and replace it with a new joist of the same size.

You should also check for any signs of mold and mildew on the surface of your deck. If you find any, it’s important to clean the affected area right away to prevent future growth of fungus and other types of harmful organisms. It’s also a good idea to improve drainage and ventilation, as this can help reduce the likelihood of rot in the future. This may include installing a drainage system or adding vents to the deck so air can circulate more easily.

Clean It Regularly

The most effective way to prevent rot on decks is to thoroughly clean them at least twice each year. Start with a hard-bristle broom and a hose with an adjustable spray nozzle. You may also want to use a commercial deck cleaner, which is typically available in liquid or ready-to-use form. Make sure the deck cleaner you choose is designed for use on your specific wood type.

Before you begin cleaning, cover any plants near your deck to keep them from getting splashed or damaged by the cleaning agents in your deck cleaner. It’s also a good idea to put down drop cloths or tarps over any furniture you have on your deck, to protect it from the water and cleaning agents in the cleaner.

When you’re done washing your deck, it’s important to let it dry completely before you move on. A deck that’s still wet can be a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can then cause the boards to rot. It’s best to wait 48 hours to give your deck the chance to re-absorb the water it washed away.

While your deck is drying, take this opportunity to examine it for any damage. Look for soft or splintered planks, loose nails and screws, and rusty fasteners. These can all present a trip or fall risk, and they should be addressed promptly.

Examine your railings and stairs for signs of rot or decay as well. Check the stair risers and stringers to make sure they’re securely fastened, and that the stairs themselves feel stable and safe to climb.

Once your deck is clean, it’s a good idea to install some kind of stain or clear protective coating on it. A high-quality water-resistant deck stain will help to preserve the wood, as well as block out harmful UV rays. Look for a stain that also contains a wood preservative to help the deck last longer. It’s a good idea to test the stain on a small area before applying it to the whole deck.

Apply a Water-Repellent Sealant

A properly sealed deck protects it from water damage and mildew. Sealants also help prevent the deterioration of wood, keeping it strong and attractive. A high-quality sealant is less expensive than repairing or replacing a damaged deck, making it an investment in the longevity of your outdoor living space. If you have a wood deck, it should be resealed every year or two to maintain its beauty and functionality.

Before sealing, inspect your deck for signs of damage. Cracks and splits can be repaired with putty or waterproof wood filler. Protruding nails can be hammered back in using a drift pin. Loose boards should be replaced, as well. If you notice any of these issues, do your best to repair them right away. Prompt repairs can significantly improve the lifespan of your deck.

Start by sweeping your deck to remove any dirt, debris or dust that has collected. You may need to do this a couple of times before you are ready to apply the sealant. You should also make sure that the deck is completely dry before moving on to sanding. This process should be done with a long-handled deck broom, as you want to avoid damaging the surface of your deck. Once your deck is sanded, be sure to wipe away any sanding dust thoroughly.

Once your deck is dry, you are ready to apply your Thompson’s Water Seal. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying your sealant. It is important to stir the sealant thoroughly, as shaking it can cause bubbles. You can use a paint roller or a brush to apply the sealant to your deck. Use long, even strokes and be sure to cover all areas of your deck. A second coat can be applied, if needed, but it should be allowed to dry for at least 24 hours.

Once your Thompson’s water seal is fully dry, you can begin enjoying your deck! The sealant acts as a barrier against water, and will protect your deck from molds, mildew and other common problems. It will also give your deck a beautiful, rich color and adds an extra layer of protection against the elements.

Apply a Deck Brightener

It’s important to brighten a deck before staining. This process ensures that the wood absorbs and holds the stain correctly. It also prevents the build-up of mildew and fungus. We recommend a brightener such as DeckWise Hardwood and Deck Cleaner and Brightener, or RAD Stain Wood Brightener (part of the RAD Deck Care system). These products are safe to use and will not harm your plants, but it is up to you to thoroughly rinse any items used after applying to make sure that solution residue has dispersed appropriately.

DeckWise wood brightener contains no bleach and does not damage the lignin in the wood. Bleach, on the other hand, destroys lignin and causes it to lose its strength and color, leaving wood with a dull appearance. Brightening is recommended yearly, though in certain circumstances you may wish to do it twice per year.

When used after cleaning the wood with our DeckWise wood cleaner, this powerful brightening concentrate will restore the natural beauty of exterior wood species. It works to remove fungus, dirt, grime and rust as well as tannin stains from redwoods and other softwoods that can be damaged by extractive bleeding.

It can also be used as a neutralizer to further brighten wood species like pine that have been cleaned with Deck Wood Cleaner or stripped with Stain Stripper. It is recommended that #1 Deck Wood Brightener be followed by application of RAD Premium Wood Stain to protect the wood and provide lasting protection for years to come.

After washing the wood, mix the brightener in water according to label instructions and apply to wet surface, scrubbing with a brush as needed. Let stand 3 – 5 minutes, keeping wet with additional solution if necessary. Rinse well and allow to dry.

We recommend rinsing vertical surfaces from the bottom and working up to avoid streaking. One container of wood brightener will brighten up to 1,200 square feet of deck or other wood surface. One 16 oz. jar will create up to 4 gallons of brightening solution. For larger jobs, multiple containers can be used to make a more concentrated solution.

LLumar window tints have exceptional heat rejection/reduction and UV protection. They are also less likely to fade over time than cheaper tints.

Ceramic window tints have the highest heat and UV resistance, while maintaining a fully non-metallic construction to avoid signal interference with GPS, phones, and radios. They look great and perform well for years. Visit https://www.windowtintingwichita.com/ to learn more.

Window tint is a great way to protect yourself, your car, and your family from harmful UV rays, reduce glare, and prevent interior fading. It also offers privacy and a sleek look. However, it is important to get your windows tinted by a professional because if not done properly, it can result in bubbles, peeling, and an uneven appearance. It is also important to choose a high-quality tint to ensure that you are getting the most benefits.

Unlike traditional glass windows, tinted windows absorb and reflect solar energy, significantly reducing the amount of heat that passes through them. This keeps the vehicle’s interior much cooler, especially during hot summer months. It also minimizes the use of the air conditioner, saving you money on cooling costs. Additionally, it can improve your fuel efficiency by reducing the strain on your engine and allowing you to get more mileage out of each tank.

Another benefit of window tinting is that it blocks a significant percentage of the sun’s harmful UV rays, which can damage your skin and increase your risk for skin cancer. It also helps to block the glare from sunlight and headlights, which can make driving more comfortable. In addition, a dark tint can help to hide the contents of your vehicle and deter break-ins by making it harder for potential thieves to see what is inside.

Home window tinting can also offer a number of benefits. It can save you money on your energy bills, as it reduces the amount of heat that enters your house through conventional windows. It can also protect your furniture and art from fading due to ultraviolet radiation. It can also help to reduce the risk of skin cancer by protecting your family from excessive sun exposure.

Another benefit of window tinting is that it can increase your home’s resale value. Many buyers look for homes with energy-efficient upgrades, and adding window tint is a simple and affordable way to achieve this. It can also be a great way to enhance your curb appeal and improve the aesthetic of your home.

Installation

A professional window tinting job requires precise measurements, careful cutting, and attentive installation. Window tinting professionals take meticulous care in each step to ensure that the final product is flawless and complies with strict automotive regulations. This attention to detail is essential for achieving the high-quality results that customers expect.

First, the windows are wiped down with an ammonia-free glass cleaner to remove dust and contaminants. Then, they are sprayed with soapy water to create a lubricant layer that will allow the film to be positioned without sticking prematurely. Finally, the soapy solution is rinsed off with a clean microfiber cloth to remove any residual moisture.

The tinting film is then measured and cut to the exact dimensions of the window. It is important to measure accurately and add a bit of extra material for wiggle room. This is because tinting only has one usable side and the installer wants to be able to adhere it to the interior of the window. It is then transferred to a pristine surface for precise cutting, using the window’s outline as a template. Then, the film is marked with a non-abrasive marker and transferred back to the cutting area for precision trimming.

When the windows are ready, the tinting technician sprays a soapy solution over the interior window glass. The release liner is then peeled off and the tint is applied to the window with a smooth, even application. It is crucial that the tint is aligned precisely, and any flaws or bubbles are addressed immediately. The squeegee is again employed to press out air and flatten the film.

Once the installation is complete, the windows are cleaned again to remove any residue and to help ensure a perfect finish. Then, the installer re-inspects each window from multiple angles to look for any imperfections that may need to be corrected. This includes visual and tactile inspections.

Once all windows are inspected, the installer will notify the client to wait for at least 3 days before operating their vehicle to ensure that the tint is fully cured. They will also provide care instructions and a warranty.

Materials

There are several types of window tinting materials that can be used. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, but LLumar is among the most respected brands on the market. Their window tints offer outstanding heat resistance and UV protection while remaining dark enough to satisfy legal requirements. They also reduce glare while maintaining an attractive appearance.

The process of creating window tint begins with small pellets of polyethylene terephthalate, or PET. These are melted into a semi-liquid state before being stretched into polyester sheets. Other chemicals and compounds that block ultraviolet radiation are added to these sheets as well. This helps to regulate indoor temperatures and provides other benefits such as privacy, glare reduction, and solar control.

Dyed window tints are the most common and affordable type of film available. They contain multiple layers of dye that absorb sunlight to keep it from passing through the windows. However, they do not offer the same level of UV protection as other options. In addition, they can fade and become less effective over time.

Metallic window tints use metal microparticles to reflect sunlight instead of absorbing it, making them more effective than dyed tints. These films can be more expensive than dyed tints, but they are long-lasting and durable. They can even prevent the glass from shattering in case of an accident or impact. They can also enhance the appearance of the car, with a shinier look than other types of tints. One downside to these types of window tints is that their metal particles can interfere with radio, GPS, or other electronic signals.

Hybrid tints are a combination of dyes and metal particles. These are more effective than dyed tints at blocking sunlight, but they still do not provide as much UV protection as other types of window tint. They also tend to fade and peel, especially if the quality is low or it was not installed correctly.

Ceramic tints are a very popular choice for people who want both style and function in their vehicle. They are not only stylish, but they are also extremely durable and offer great heat rejection and glare reduction. They are also scratch-resistant, which makes them a good choice for those who want to keep their vehicles looking new for as long as possible.

Pricing

Window tinting is an economical and practical way to add privacy, protect the interior of the vehicle from UV radiation and heat, and enhance styling and value. Window tint also helps prevent the deterioration of leather, plastic, and vinyl interior materials that can occur due to prolonged exposure to sunlight.

The pricing for tinting can vary depending on the type of film, the manufacturer, and installation. It is best to find a professional installer who can guarantee a high-quality finish and offer a warranty for the window tint. It is a good idea to get several quotes from different providers.

Besides the types of tint available, pricing will depend on the vehicle’s size and how many windows need to be tinted. Coupes typically have two front windows and two smaller rear windows, while sedans have four windows. Trucks and SUVs have a larger number of windows than cars, which will increase the overall cost. Additionally, some vehicles have curved or irregularly-shaped windows that require more skill and time to tint correctly.

Some tinting services offer a model-specific pre-cut kit that reduces installation time and minimizes the risk of cutting mishaps. This can help lower the cost of the job, but it is still important to take your time and ensure the tint lines up properly. Otherwise, you will be stuck with an unsightly bubble or wrinkle in the window that can affect how well the tint adheres to the glass.

Other factors that will impact pricing are the VLT (visible light transmission) percentage, a measurement of how dark or light the tint is, and any legal restrictions on window tinting in your area. A higher VLT percentage provides more privacy and glare reduction, but it may block out too much natural light for some drivers’ preferences or may be prohibited in certain areas.

Ceramic tints are the most expensive, but they offer superior heat rejection and don’t interfere with radios, GPS systems, or cell signals. A newer type of tint, pioneered by Rayno, is a carbon polymer hybrid that offers the best of both worlds. It provides the blackness of traditional carbon films but does not develop a metallic appearance over time.

How to Properly Maintain Your Deck