Maintaining Your Deck Stain

Wooden decks often require yearly maintenance. It’s this yearly maintenance that make most people dread having a deck. If you have performed the right preparation and cleaning as well as chosen a high quality penetrating oil based deck stain, maintenance does not have to be an issue. The key is to understand is that maintenance is preventative. Instead of letting your deck stain fail and have the wood turn gray, simply reapply a new coat of stain every spring. Its important to make sure that you first remove any mold or dirt. If you already have a deck stain or sealer that is intact, you can mix one part household bleach to two parts water and add a squirt of dish cleaning liquid like Dawn™. Use a very soft bristled brush (a truck wash brush works well) to gently agitate the cleaner on the surface. Rinse away the dirt with a garden hose. You may notice a slight lightening of color on the existing finish.. that is nothing about which you should worry. Let the deck dry for a full day. Now simply apply your fresh coat of deck stain and voila! Your deck will be good as new.

Can replacement windows be installed during the winter

Can replacement windows be installed during the winter?

Most people begin to think of replacing their windows when the cold weather sets in. Most then wonder if windows can be replaced during the winter months. The answer is yes! Most window companies offer year round service and the bulk of their business is in every season except summer. Most window companies that have your comfort in mind will try to install one room at a time with the doors closed so your house does not get cold.

Each window opening is only exposed for a short time while the old window is removed and the new window is installed. Generally this only takes about 10 minutes and then the installer can insulate the window and caulk the opening. Most professional installers have done this task 1000’s of times so rest assured, they will look out for your home.

One of the most rewarding reasons for having your windows installed during the winter is that you will begin to reap the benefits the day that they are installed. Your glass will feel warmer and your old drafty windows will be on their way to their final resting place. You should begin to notice that you heating bill is smaller which will leave some room to plan other projects.