Metal decking is one of the most popular and attractive exterior finishing options today. There are a wide variety of styles, colors, and materials to choose from, and each one is designed to enhance the look and feel of the outdoor living space.
From traditional wood decking to modern steel, ceramic, and composite options, there’s a unique deck design to match almost any aesthetic or budget. As one of the most noticeable and durable exterior finishing options today, metal decking has become an integral part of residential and commercial exterior design.
With the growing trend of using metals as a building material, many homes and structures have metal decking. If you’re looking to install it in your home, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will discuss the maintenance regimen required for your metal decks to make them look beautiful and perform their function.
What are Metal Decks?
Metal decking is an outdoor decking that uses metal as a primary material. A metal deck is a strong and durable alternative to wood decking, which is prone to rot and decay. Metal decks are available in different materials, such as aluminum, copper, and stainless steel.
How to Maintain Metal Decks
Metal decking requires maintenance to keep it looking new and functional. Metal decks have unique needs that differ from wood decks.
Practice Preventative Care
Clean your deck regularly. Dirt and debris collect on metal decks, and as time passes, a significant amount of dirt and debris will inevitably end up on your deck. So, just as a standard of care, do yourself a favor and clean your deck regularly. That said, it’s much easier to clean your deck when it’s dry.
If your deck is damp or rain is forecasted, it’s best to wait until the rain has stopped and the deck is dry before cleaning it. If your deck gets especially dirty, you can use a power washer or a garden hose to clean off the dirt. However, we recommend using a broom to remove light debris and a scraper to remove thick debris like dirt or gravel.
Be careful not to use a metal scraper on your deck or railing, as it may scratch the surface.
Restore Rusted Areas
If your deck is very dirty and has some areas of rust, you may need to restore the damaged areas. You can remove the rusty areas by using a putty knife to scrape off the rust and then apply a coat of clear polyurethane. Don’t put too much pressure on the knife, though, or you may create a scratch on the deck surface.
After removing the rust, let the polyurethane dry completely before applying another coat, or you may have to reapply when the job is done. Use a power washer or garden hose to clean the deck surface. Don’t use a garden hose with a sprinkler, as the water may get into the gaps and crevices, causing an unsightly mess.
We also recommend wiping down the deck surface with a clean, dry cloth, or in the worst case, a brush or broom will work.
Apply Paint with a Primer
Have your metal deck painted if you want it to look fresh. One of the best ways to do this is with an acrylic primer, a type of paint that will adhere to the metal without needing additional coats. We recommend using a primer that is specifically designed for metal. It’s important to select a primer that has proper adhesion to metal, or the paint will not adhere properly.
We recommend using a primer containing some corrosion inhibitor, as the primer will help prevent any corrosion after you paint the metal.
Keep Your Metal Decking Looking Great and Functioning Well
Maintaining your metal decking is as easy as following these maintenance tips. As long as you take care of it, your metal deck will last for years and years. Give us a call at Miami Metal Deck to get yours today.
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