Renovating Your Patio
The summer is the season that outdoor lovers look forward to the most. If you are an outdoor lover and have got an ample backyard or garden, chances are that you would definitely have a patio or deck constructed for barbeque parties or even simple relaxing afternoons. However, being outside, the deck is more prone to the weathering agents – and consequently, needs to be renovated more often, especially after a harsh winter.However, unlike other home renovations, renovating your patio can be quite simple – to the point that you can do it yourself. To start with, however, you will need to understand that you will need both time and good weather. It is ideal to schedule patio renovations for the weekend, or whenever you have a break of two or three days; make sure that the weather is sunny (and remains high even overnight – around the low tens of degree Celsius at the very least). Below are the steps for renovating your patio:
- Clean your deck – to begin the Adelaide outdoor renovations, you will need to first thoroughly clean your patio. Remove the movable furniture (you will be getting rid of it if you want to buy new ones; otherwise, just take it inside or leave it in a garden shed or the garage). Use a pressure washer to get rid of dirt, grease and other dirt that has tightly clung to the flooring; you can rent one of these heavy-duty washers from a nearby renovating store or hardware shop if you do not have one.
- Do the necessary replacements – one you have washed your patio and let it dry, it is time to examine the need for replacements. Look for nails and screws that have rusted, as well as floorboards that have decayed or warped. Replace them – and know that when unsure, it is best to replace them to avoid repair in the near future.
- Prime the deck – primer avoids the need for sanding or stripping surfaces and acts as the first layer of paint, so this is what you have to start with. Know that it will become transparent after two to four hours of drying, so do not worry even it looks milky whilst applying. Make sure to apply it in generous quantities – and remember to cover up any areas you do not want paint on beforehand!
- Paint or stain – depending on the age of the deck and your own personal preferences, you will have to pick between painting your deck and staining it. If your deck is very old, paint is a good option; however, if you like the natural colour of the wood (and the patio is relatively new), a transparent or semi-transparent stain is a good idea.
- Decorate – once you have let the patio dry for two days, you can redecorate it – either with the old furniture, or with new furniture. And with that, you have successfully renovated your patio.