A little TLC to your deck can help keep it in top shape for longer. Inspecting and maintaining your deck annually is vital to keeping it looking great and staying safe. Both a visual and structural inspection should be performed each year. Your deck should be checked for safety purposes, as well as any defects or damage that may have occurred over the winter season, and repaired immediately.

Why is Deck Maintenance Needed?

A well-maintained deck can last for decades. If you want to keep your deck as a space for outdoor living and entertaining guests, you need to treat it right. The required maintenance can vary based on several factors. These factors can often include the materials used in construction, the current condition of your deck, the climate, and how the deck is used. Wooden decks constructed around pools or near an open body of water may require more frequent maintenance, for example.

Cleaning Maintenance for Your Deck

Over time, dirt, mildew, and algae growth can build up on the surface of the wood, especially if it has been a few years since you last cleaned it. UV rays from the sun can also harm and distress the decking materials. UV damage can cause peeling, splintering, or fading. Routine cleaning and treating the surfaces of your deck will extend its life and provide long-lasting beauty. Although you do not always have to power wash your deck each year, you should create some sort of annual cleaning regimen.

The type of decking materials used may determine cleaning and treatment needs. You may have natural wood, like cedar or redwood, pressure-treated wood, or a composite deck. Each type requires a different process to clean and restore its appearance. Natural wood decks often require annual cleaning and application of a new finish. Pressure-treated wood requires cleaning about every 2-3 years. Composite material decks are prone to mold and mildew and should be deep-cleaned at least every few years.

Power Washing

Many homeowners think that a power washer is the easiest way to clean their deck. Although this process is quick, it can sometimes be harmful to your deck. Improper use of a power washer can cause etching in your deck surface or cause splintering. Follow the instructions of the equipment or hire a professional. Power washing will likely strip any wood stain or finish. So be prepared to refinish the deck after. Additionally, power washing is not recommended for composite woods.

Cleaning Without a Power Washer

If power washing is outside your realm of comfort, or if you have a composite wood patio, consider using a non-toxic cleaner, like oxygen bleach, and a deck brush. The oxygen bubbles in the solution soak into the dry wood. The oxygen ions deep clean the wood by breaking apart dirt, algae, and mildew molecules. You can then rinse it off thoroughly with your hose. Although this is an effective way to clean, it will take more time and effort than a power washer.

Applying Stain to Your Deck

Before applying stain, your deck should be thoroughly clean and dry. Drying may take up to a few days without precipitation. With any type of stain, do your research before purchasing. When applying the new stain, make sure you select a semi-transparent stain that sinks deeply into the wood. A solid color stain is more like paint and is more apt to peel. For a more natural, stained look, a quality, heavy oil-based stain will provide longer wear than a water-based product.

DIY or Professional Care?

As with any home improvement task, it is important that you know how to proceed. If you are unsure about the particular skills needed for your project, consider hiring a professional. They should be able to discuss your particular job and provide you with their feedback and an estimate, if needed.

Home Improvement Contractors of Staten Island is proud to connect residents with trusted professionals. Visit our Member Directory for a full list of our local experts.