Follow Our Deck Care Guide for Years of Outdoor Enjoyment

When it comes to outdoor living, nothing beats a gorgeous custom deck.

From entertaining to reading to simply catching a breath of fresh air, this popular feature is a perfect addition to any style of home.

And proper care is an essential investment in the long-term value of your deck. 

A poorly maintained deck doesn’t just look bad. It’s also a safety hazard for you and your guests. With regular cleaning and sealing, you can keep your backyard retreat in like-new condition for longer. And routine inspections let you find and fix minor issues before they turn into bigger – and more expensive – headaches down the road.

By following our simple deck care guide – which includes cleaning, protection and inspection and repair – you’ll enjoy a beautiful and functional outdoor living space for many years to come.

#1: Clean

Outdoor wood structures will develop an unsightly dark appearance, due to moss, mold, algae and grime, which build up over time. Regular cleaning preserves the beauty and structure of your deck.

Weekly Sweeping   

Grab a broom and sweep off your deck at least once a week. This is an easy way to stop leaves, dirt and other debris from accumulating and promoting harmful mildew. If pollen or other contaminants are present, rinse them away with a garden hose.

Annual Cleaning   

Treat your deck to a more extensive cleaning once or twice a year, depending on conditions where you live. You’ll prevent moss and algae from building up. As an added bonus, your deck floor will be less likely to become slippery when wet. 

Clean your deck in spring or fall, when the weather is dry and the temperature is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. 

• Cover the exterior wall and nearby plants with a tarp or plastic sheet. Remove deck furniture and other items. 
• Use a biodegradable wood cleaner. For composite decks, choose a product formulated for composite materials. Follow the instructions on the container. 
• Apply the solution and gently rub with a scrub brush, treating one small section at a time.
• Rinse with a regular garden hose. 
• Allow your deck to dry completely before replacing furniture. This can take between two and three days, depending on weather conditions. 

If you have stubborn stains or caked-on dirt, occasional power washing may be appropriate. A quality finish may help you avoid the need for power washing. 

#2: Protect

Decks made with composite boards don’t require resealing. If you have a wood deck, reseal every one to two years, or as needed. 

Why does this matter? 

Untreated wood is vulnerable to ultraviolet rays and precipitation, which lead to discoloration and peeling. A quality sealer also guards against mold, mildew, cracking and warping. 

• To protect the natural beauty of your deck, reseal with a quality oil-based product after cleaning. 
• If you need to stain your deck, sand the wood beforehand. This allows the stain to penetrate more effectively. 
• Don’t forget about pest control! Bark beetles, carpenter ants, carpenter bees and rodents are just a few of the critters that can cause problems. Select a bait, barrier or eco-friendly pesticide to protect the wood. 

#3: Inspect & Repair

As noted above, your deck will take lots of abuse as the years go by. Rain, snow and ultraviolet light will degrade the finish. In addition, the wood will contract and expand in response to temperature changes. The boards will gradually loosen, and the wood will develop cracks if not properly sealed. 

Examine your deck on a regular basis to spot early signs of trouble. If you notice any of the following, replace the boards promptly to avoid further problems.

• Cracking
• Splitting
• Peeling
• Warping
• Discoloration
• Rot, as indicated by a spongy texture

Make sure the deck is securely attached to the house. 

• Check the flashing. This is where your deck attaches to the exterior wall. The flashing provides a vital moisture barrier. It must be securely attached with no signs of water seeping in between the deck and the wall. 
• Check all fasteners. This includes nails, screws and anchors. Tighten any loose screws and replace all rusted or corroded hardware.
• Make sure railings, handrails and stairs are firmly attached, and replace as needed. 

Find Quality Decking Materials

At Mid-City Lumber, we offer a wide assortment of high quality decking materials and hardware from reputable brands. It’s the perfect place to find everything you need when it’s time for the occasional repair or replacement.

Have a question? Ask our building experts for helpful advice on building a new deck or maintaining your existing one. Drop by a location near you, or contact us online at any time.