If you’re like most homeowners, you probably use your deck to host barbecues, entertain guests, or just relax in the sun. But what happens when you want to start using your deck for plants? Suddenly, your deck is at risk of damage from planters and pots, but do you know how to protect your deck from planters?
To protect your deck from planters, you should make sure the planters are the right size and in the right position for the deck. As well, move the planters around regularly, promote airflow with planter feet, don’t overwater, put planters away in the winter and seal the deck.
If you want to learn more about those tips for protecting your deck from planters, continue reading.
How to protect your deck from planters
Your deck is an extension of your home, and you want to keep it looking its best. However, planters can be a problem for decks. The weight of the planter, plus the soil and water, can cause the wood to warp and the nails to come loose.
In extreme cases, the planter can even collapse, damaging your deck and injuring anyone who happens to be nearby.
If you’re like most homeowners, you probably enjoy spending time outdoors on your deck. It’s a great place to relax and entertain guests. But if you have wooden planters placed on your deck, you may be concerned about the potential damage they can cause.
Move planters around regularly
Over time, exposure to the elements can take a toll on even the most well-built wooden deck. Water and sunlight can cause the wood to warp and fade, while foot traffic can lead to scratches and scuffs.
However, one of the most common problems facing wooden decks is planter damage. Heavy planters can leave indentations in the wood, while excess moisture can lead to rot and mold.
To protect your deck from planter damage, it is important to regularly switch up your planters’ placement. This will help to distribute the weight evenly and prevent any single area from being overloaded.
In addition, be sure to use planters with drainage holes to avoid trapping moisture against the deck surface.
Promote airflow with planter feet
One way to protect your wooden deck from such damage is to use pot feet or pot risers.
By elevating the pots off the ground, you can help to prevent water from pooling around them and reduce the amount of direct sunlight they receive.
In addition, pot feet or pot risers can also help to improve drainage and aeration, both of which are important for healthy plant growth.
Don’t overwater
Make sure you don’t overwater your plants. Planters can quickly become saturated, and that excess water can seep into the wood and cause it to warp or rot.
Therefore, it’s important to check your plants regularly and only water them when they need it. This will, as well, help you to optimize your production and minimize water waste.
You may also want to consider using a drip irrigation system, which will help you control the amount of water your plants receive.
Put planters away in the winter
Put your planters away during the winter months; this will protect them from the harsh weather and give them a chance to dry out.
Check your planters for any cracks or damage, and repair or replace them as necessary. Once your planters are in good condition, you’ll need to choose a storage location that will protect them from the elements.
A garage or shed is a good option, as long as it is well-ventilated and free from debris.
Once you’ve found a suitable location, simply place your planters upside down on a clean surface. This will help to prevent water damage, and make it easier to store them in a small space.
Seal your deck
Another way to protect your wooden deck from planters is to seal the deck. This will create a barrier between the deck and the soil, preventing moisture and dirt from seeping into the wood.
Additionally, it is important to regularly clean your deck and planters to remove any build-up of dirt or debris.
By taking these simple steps, you can help keep your deck looking great for years to come. Further, you can avoid problems such as peeling paint or water damage.
Use hanging planters
One way to safeguard your deck is to use hanging planters. That way, the pots will never come into direct contact with the wood. You can also use saucers or trays beneath potted plants to catch any water that drips through the drainage holes.
They can also help prevent soil and water spills, which is especially handy if you have young children, pets, and other animals in and around the home!
Hanging planters and saucers or trays beneath potted plants will give you peace of mind that your deck is protected from any potential damage.
Place pots on plant stands
Potted plants are a popular decoration for decks, but they can also be one of the biggest threats to the wood. Water from the pots can seep into the deck, causing it to rot or warp.
To avoid this problem, place your pots on plant stands. This way, they will be elevated above the deck surface and the water will run off harmlessly.
You should also make sure that you use potting soil that is well-draining. Soil that stays wet for extended periods of time is more likely to cause damage to the wood.
Choose the right planters
First, make sure that the planters are the right size for the deck. A large planter will put too much strain on the supports, while a small one may tip over easily.
Second, use solid-sided planters rather than wire baskets or other open-topped containers. This will prevent the soil from spilling out and will help to keep the plant roots contained.
Third, make sure that the planters have drainage holes in the bottom so that water can drain out. Otherwise, the roots of the plants will become waterlogged and could rot.
Finally, consider using self-watering planters. These have a reservoir built into the bottom of the planter that slowly releases water to the roots as needed.
Regularly inspect and maintain your deck and planters
To avoid these problems, it is important to regularly maintain your deck. First, make sure that all planters are properly drained so that water does not pool on the surface of the deck.
Second, avoid placing large pots in one spot – instead, distribute their weight evenly across the deck. Finally, inspect the decking regularly for any signs of damage and repair or replace any damaged boards.
Don’t forget to regularly check the condition of your planters. If you see any signs of damage, take action immediately to prevent further damage from occurring. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your deck for many years to come.
Final thoughts
If you want to keep your deck in good condition, it’s important to protect it from planters. By following the simple tips we’ve outlined in this post, you can preserve the look and lifespan of your deck while still enjoying beautiful plants.
Have you tried any of these methods for protecting your deck from planters? Let us know in the comments!
