With outdoor living season now in full swing, chances are your deck will be getting a lot of use in the coming weeks. Before breaking out the patio furniture and barbeque, however, be sure to check your deck for wear and tear.

To ensure your outdoor space is up to scratch this summer, Australian Market Manager for Trex Company, Rod Schiefelbein has shared his solutions for the five most common deck dilemmas.

Deck Dilemma #1:  Loose nails and splintering boards

Solution: Nail pops and splintering are common occurrences with any type of wood deck, especially after a winter of fluctuating temperatures and precipitation. To find protruding nails, drag the back of a rake across the deck boards. Then, hammer them down or replace them with galvanized screws that are approximately ½-inch longer than the original nails. Lightly splintered boards may be salvaged through sanding, while severely splintered boards will likely continue to deteriorate and should be replaced.

Designed for maximum durability, composite decking won’t rot, crack or warp, regardless of harsh weather conditions or daily wear and tear. It’s also insect-proof and splinter-free, making it safer and more comfortable for families with kids and pets. For a completely smooth deck, consider a wood-alternative decking material such as Trex Transcend^®, which can be installed with concealed fasteners that create a seamless, barefoot-friendly surface.

Deck Dilemma #2:  Scuffs and abrasions from furniture and foot traffic

Solution: To keep a wood deck looking as good as new, it’s important to regularly wash, stain and seal the boards. Difficult scuffs and scratches may require the use of a power washer – and a bit of elbow grease. With a wood-alternative deck, most abrasions can be washed off easily with soap and water. Be sure to check the deck manufacturer’s cleaning and care guide for product-specific tips and guidance.

Deck Dilemma #3:  Oil and grease stains

Solution: BBQ sauce is delicious, but not when the leftovers from last summer’s final cookout are still coating your deck. Whether you have a wood or a wood-alternative deck, try scrubbing stains with a household degreasing agent. For set-in stains, try an automotive degreaser or a carburetor cleaner and rinse immediately with hot water.

Deck Dilemma #4:  Mold and Mildew

Solution: Mold and mildew are enemies of any exterior surface – especially shady decks exposed to pollen or other organic debris and standing puddles of water. Sweeping the surface creates a first line of defense against mold and mildew and prevents the creation of an environment that nurtures the growth of fungus.

Deck Dilemma #5:  Fading and discoloration

Solution: Wet, winters can take their toll, causing a wood deck to fade and lose its original color. Seasonal sanding and sealing are a must to fend off the natural deterioration that comes with wood. With composite decking, you never need to worry about sanding, staining or painting. Just an occasional cleaning is all that’s needed to maintain its color and beauty for decades. In fact, all Trex decking products come with a 25-year Fade and Stain Warranty, ensuring they will continue to look as good over time as the first day they were installed.