Before the short, cold, wet days of winter arrive, be sure to give your porch or deck a little winterizing attention. Clean the surface of the deck with a leaf blower or broom. You may also want to add a mildew prevention product if that’s an issue in your area. Make sure that you make needed repairs to your wood deck to help it survive the elements. Replace any rotting boards. Sand down areas that are peeling. Tighten screws, make sure railings are secure, and re-level stairs before the oversaturated ground shifts things further. DECKS, PATIOS, AND PORCHES
Some patio furniture can stay outside to endure the elements, while others should be put under cover for protection. All outdoor supplies and furniture should be cleaned prior to storage. Apply a layer of protective car wax to aluminum furniture. Touch up scratches and apply a coat of protective spray paint to wrought iron. Clean plastic and bring it inside so it doesn’t get too brittle and crack. Synthetic wicker can handle the elements, but bring rattan indoors to avoid moisture damage. Anything ceramic, from pots to water features to tile tabletops, should be stored indoors. Ceramic will crack and flake in extremely cold temperatures. PATIO FURNITURE
For patios, patch up chips, replace broken stones, and fill in cracks.
For enclosed porches, consider sealing them off for the winter. You can use clear vinyl curtains to repel the rain and keep the leaves out. Panels can be added to screened porches to retain heat and reduce damage to the screening materials.
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