A custom deck adds extra square footage to your home and provides a relaxing outdoor space. Incorporating potted plants can add privacy and ambiance to the feature, but they can damage the decking materials without the proper care. Protect the investment from planter damage by following these steps. 

How to Protect a Deck From Potted Plants

1. Rotate the Planters

Plant pots have holes on the bottom to help water drain from the soil and prevent overwatered roots. The drained water flows from under the planter and sits on whatever surface is underneath. Most decks consist of wood, which is susceptible to rot with prolonged exposure to moisture. 

To prevent unsightly marks and premature rotting, move the planters around the deck periodically — every week if possible. Moving the pots to new locations around the deck allows the wood to dry out. 

2. Try Alternative Planters

Instead of placing pots directly on the surface of the custom deck, find other ways to decorate your outdoor living space with flowers and plants. Hanging planters from hooks or brackets will prevent moisture from resting on the wood. If you prefer not to hang flower pots, you could invest in deck planters and trellises to create a stunning floral display closer to the ground without affecting the deck’s surface. 

3. Seal the Deck

Untreated wood will eventually decay as a result of exposure to moisture and fungi. You can protect the decking material by applying a sealant. This product offers protection against moisture by applying water-repelling properties directly to the wood. Instead of water soaking into the decking boards, the droplets will bead off the surface. 

If you want a custom deck that you can decorate with lovely planters, reach out to Decks Unlimited. For more than 16 years, this family-owned and –operated business has offered clients throughout Ozark, AL, and the surrounding areas with top-quality exterior home improvement products and services. They offer lifetime warranties on all their projects. Learn more about their services by visiting their website, or call (334) 232-1020 to request a free quote.