Is Your Colorado Deck Ready for Spring? 5 Things to Check After Winter
Deck Refinishing
We may not have had a typical Colorado winter this year, but even a mild Colorado winter can be brutal on outdoor wood. Between the heavy March “heavy wet” snows, the intense high-altitude UV rays, and the constant freeze-thaw cycles, your deck has been through a lot since November.
Before you fire up the grill or set out the patio furniture, it’s important to perform a quick “health check.” Catching small issues now can save you thousands in restoration costs later this summer.
Here are the 5 key things every Colorado homeowner should check this spring:
1. The “Splash Test” (Water Bead Check)
This is the easiest way to see if your protective seal is still working. Pour a small amount of water onto several areas of your deck—especially high-traffic spots and areas where snow drifts sat for weeks.
- The Result: If the water beads up, your stain is still protecting the wood. If the water soaks in and creates a dark spot within a minute, your wood is “thirsty” and vulnerable to rot and sun damage. It’s time for a professional deck refinishing.
2. Post-Winter Surface Dirt
Run your finger along the surface of the wood. If it’s dirty, you need a thorough wash. This can be dirt, dust, and debris clinging to the oxidizing stain. Grab your garden hose and give it wash with as much pressure as possible, but don’t use a power washer. If that doesn’t do the trick, attach a scrub brush to a pole and start scrubbing. It’s best to wash your deck once a month with a garden hose to avoid scrubbing.
3. Clear the Gaps
During the winter, pine needles, leaves, and debris get trapped between your deck boards. This debris holds moisture against the sides of the boards, which is a leading cause of side-rot. Take a putty knife or a powerful hose and clear those gaps to allow for proper airflow so your deck can dry out after our spring rain showers.
4. Splinter & Snag Inspection
Run a microfiber cloth (or a gloved hand) over your handrails and high-traffic areas. Winter weather causes wood fibers to lift and pull apart. If the cloth snags, you have a splinter hazard for kids and pets. Often, a light sanding and a fresh coat of high-quality stain are all you need to smooth things out for barefoot season.
5. Hidden Mildew
Look at the areas of your deck that stay in the shade most of the day. Because Colorado snow melts slowly in the shade, these spots are prime territory for mildew or algae growth. If you see a green or black tint to the wood, it needs to be treated before the spring heat “bakes” those spores into the grain. We use a non-toxic biodegradable mildew treatment before refinishing to kill mildew.
Need a Professional Opinion?
If your deck looks gray, weathered, or failed the “splash test,” don’t wait until the 90-degree July heat to fix it. Protecting your wood now ensures your deck lasts for decades.
At Colorado Deck Master, we specialize in high-altitude wood restoration designed specifically for our unique climate.
Ready to get your outdoor space back in shape? Contact us today for a free estimate on your spring deck refinishing!
— Neill McKenzie, Founder
