4 Tips to Maintain Your Deck

Decks are a common upgrade in many homes. They provide a space for you to congregate outside, and you can convert your backyard into an oasis that allows you to enjoy nature and find peace in the moment. 

While decks add value to your home, you want to do what you can to protect your investment. Here are four tips to help you maintain your deck. 

Essential Deck Maintenance Tips

Regular deck maintenance can help extend its lifespan, giving you a stronger return on your investment. 

1. Choose the Right Material 

Deck maintenance starts before your deck is even built. You want to ensure you choose the right material based on your budget, use, and environment. 

Pressure-treated wood is often the most affordable option, though it may not be as aesthetically pleasing as cedar, redwood, and other types of wood. Composite decking is a mixture of recycled wood fibers and plastics. It’s more expensive than wood upfront but has a stronger long-term value as it can cut down on the routine maintenance requirements. 

Consider what your temperature is like when choosing deck material. Wood can retain more heat than composite panels, which is why you may want to avoid it if you live in hot places like Arizona or Nevada. You can walk on the composite panels during any temperature without fear of burning your feet or melting your shoes. 

You can have more flexibility in more moderate temperatures with seasons. You want to avoid untreated wood in Tennessee, as it can quickly mold and rot thanks to the humidity. Pressure-treated lumber, cedar, and composite decking are all resistant to decay and strong enough to withstand insects and the natural elements. A deck builder in Tennessee can advise you on the best option based on your personal needs. 

The type of material you use for your deck will impact the type of maintenance it requires. 

2. Keep it Clean

While your deck can withstand various weather conditions, you want to do your part to help extend its lifespan. One way you can do this is by keeping it clean. Sweep the surface and remove any leaves, sticks, and other debris. In the winter, keep it shoveled and free from snow and ice. 

A clean surface prevents water from pooling, which can damage your deck’s surface. If there is caked-on debris, you can use a deck cleaner or a pressure washer to help remove it. Use a low setting and be gentle. Start on a small portion of the deck to see how it responds to prevent accidental damage. 

3. Stain or Seal Your Deck Routinely 

Exposure to the elements and the sun’s UV rays can cause your deck to deteriorate over time. You can slow this down by regularly staining or sealing your deck’s surface. 

If you have a wood deck, stain it every two to three years. This will help maintain its appearance and protect the wood. Inspect your deck regularly. Signs you may need to stain your deck include faded colors, mold, and mildew.

Decks should also be sealed to prevent moisture from absorbing into the boards. Pour some water on your board. If it absorbs, then you need to seal it. If the water pools on the surface, the sealant is still working. Typically, you’ll need to reseal your deck every one to three years, though the frequency can depend on the climate, weather, type of sealant, and more. 

Composite decking does not need to be re-treated as wood does, but sealing it can help extend its lifespan. 

4. Rearrange Your Furniture and Grill 

While you may strive to get the perfect feng shui for your outdoor space, you should also routinely rearrange your furniture. This will help prevent fading and pressure damage over time and help maintain an even look and feel on your deck surface.

Additionally, you should invest in protective gear for your outdoor furniture. Furniture footpads can prevent scratches on your deck, especially as you move your furniture around. You should also invest in grease catchers, deck mats, and spark screens if you grill, cook, or have a fire pit on your deck. This will help protect the surface from unwanted damage. 

Wrapping Up

The more you care for your deck, the longer it will stay in top-notch condition. Regularly inspect it for any damage and address it promptly. Keep the surface clean and free from debris. Branches and other foliage can cause damage from its branches or sap. 

If you notice water starting to seep into the boards instead of pooling on top, it may be time to re-treat the surface. The weather conditions can cause degradation over time, but if you keep up with routine maintenance, you can enjoy decades of life from your deck.