You know that your deck can sometimes look a bit bland without furniture. Benches can serve more than one purpose. Lets take a look at what options there are, and how you can make the most use of your patio or deck with benches.

A first option to consider might be a mini outdoor storage bench which provides modest seating for one with a storage compartment at the base. Increase the size, and you increase the storage. You might be surprised at the things you could store as well. Such as lawn equipment, toys for the pool, or even patio cushions. While most people have the majority of tools and equipment filling up the garage, this may be a simple way to make some extra space.

Benches for decks are generally framed with 2×4, 2×6, or 4×4 material framed with open, slatted seat construction to avoid puddling. It is a good idea to add a back rest along with arm rails with any bench design whether you build it or purchase it. Comfort is definitely important when you have guests out on the patio lounging on a hot summer day.

If you do decide to build it on your own, add a  good rain protectant or wood finish to preserve the hard work invested in your bench for years to come.

You may choose to paint your bench as well. If you go this route, use an exterior enamel which will last the longest and hold up well to harsh weather such as extreme cold and heat.

Benches are also one of the most inexpensive alternatives to patio furniture. There are plenty of  patio bench plans online that will guide you through the whole process.

The key to maintaining a beautiful long-lasting deck, it to make sure you have a great protective finish over your beautiful wood deck. Wood deck cleaning should be done on a regular basis throughout the lifetime of your deck. There are many deck cleaning tips available online, on TV, in magazines, and from your local hardware store.

If the finish on your deck is looking older, or is chipping or peeling, deck refinishing might be the next task on your list of things to do around the house. It is important to remove mold from your deck, and mildew as well. With a good finish the deck, and mildew would be a thing of the past.

Before you can accomplish refinishing your deck, it is important that you are able to do a good deck cleaning. The kind of dichotomy I referring to, is not your typical sweep and spray off with a water hose, kind of cleaning. We need to do here is actually remove the remaining stain or finish that is on your deck. In order to do this you will need some chemicals to help you remove your deck’s previous finish. It is good to apply the deck cleaning agent or product onto your deck, scrub lightly and then wash off with a water hose.

You may also use a pressure washer to clean your deck. It is important that you do not apply to much water pressure to the deck because it can actually eat a hole through the wood. Deck refinishing is a lot of work, but will pay off in the end. If you use good practice, and clean your deck on a regular basis, your stained or refinishing job will last a long time. Your deck is readily maintained, refinishing it again later on in the future will also be easier.