CHECKLIST

Wouldn’t you know it

Using different kinds of wood, wooden components and features in your outdoor décor can add an organic and natural quality to that part of your home.

Wooden decks, fences and pergolas can add style and elegance to your home’s outdoor space; and simple repairs and regular maintenance can add years to the life of the things in your backyard.

A very important way to maintain your wooden feature is to use a pressure washer on the surfaces to remove mold and mildew stains and build-up caused by exposure to the elements. Gluing damaged pieces, tightening loose boards, applying wood preservatives and staining can make your wooden features look like new as well.

Local lumber and hardware stores carry items used to clean, stain and seal these wooden features and representatives will offer their advice to you.

According to the team at Home Depot, “Learning how to maintain a wooden deck can involve making a long-term maintenance schedule for inspections, cleanings and refinishing as needed. Attentive wood deck maintenance can keep it looking its best and make it less likely you’ll have to replace the whole thing.”

While wooden decks and fences are excellent and common features, a pergola can offer some protection from the elements if it is placed over a seating area on your deck. Of course, you will need to maintain your pergola in the same as other wood features outside the home.

“Using wooden pallets to create outdoor furniture provides a lot of versatility,” said Sid Nama, executive director of Vertex Guam, a general contractor. “Tables, benches, planter boxes and furnishings for an outdoor bar can be fashioned and need very minimal coating, making it cheaper and can also recycle wood.”

Your contractor or lumber expert will recommend the best type of wood, depending on your wooden feature, so that it will be able to stand up to Guam’s weather and environment.

With regular maintenance and addressing problems early, you, your family and friends can enjoy these wooden features for years to come. It is important to note you need to speak with your contractor or lumber store where you are purchasing the wood for your project about the proper time to stain your wooden feature. Some experts say to wait several weeks after the project has been constructed and others say to wait even longer, claiming that a year is the right time to stain and seal. The Home Depot recommends 60 to 90 days after construction. p