Deck Maintenance Schedule & Tips
- Remove debris from between deck boards using a putty knife. …
- Protect all shrubs and plantings. …
- Thoroughly sweep the deck.
- Choose an appropriate cleanser. …
- Clean the deck. …
- Let deck dry.
How do you take care of a garden deck?
How to clean decking
- Sweep the deck. Remove all the furniture and use a stiff wire brush to sweep away loose debris, leaves and dirt.
- Protect the surrounding area. Cover your plants and grass to protect them from the cleaning solution.
- Apply the decking cleaner.
What is the best way to maintain wooden deck?
DO clean the deck thoroughly once a year.
When it’s dry and moderately warm—60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit—apply an appropriate deck-cleaning solution with a roller or sprayer to kill mold and bacteria. Use a utility brush to scrub the deck where it’s especially dirty and where mold or mildew might lurk.
How do I extend the life of my deck?
5 Tips to Extend the Life of Your Wood Deck
- Sweep and Wash Weekly. The surfaces of your deck collect dirt, debris, pollen, and other grime on a daily basis. …
- Plants and Shrubs. …
- Power Wash. …
- Sand and Repaint or Restain. …
- Check for Rot and Cracks.
How often do you have to maintain a deck?
every two to three years
Typically, homeowners should restain horizontal surfaces such as decks every two to three years. Poor deck upkeep will decrease the time you have to enjoy the deck before restaining it, while good deck upkeep may give you another year or two before you need to restain the deck.
Should you varnish decking?
While we are not keen on varnishing decking, this is an appropriate treatment for some furniture and exterior woods. Varnish will protect the wood, but it will create a glossy and more dangerously, a very slippery surface. Clearly this is not what you want on your decking.
How do I stop my decking frame from rotting?
15 ways to prevent deck joist rot
- Ventilation Dries Deck Joist Extending their Life.
- Seal the Joist with a Water Repellant Sealer.
- Allow Water to Escape Helps Preserve Deck Joist.
- Overhang your decking, direct water away from the joist.
- Slope Joist.
- Flash the ledger and beam.
- Remove Protruding Post Railing.
Should I pressure wash my deck before staining?
There is a common misconception that just pressure washing a deck prior to staining is all you need to do in order to prep your deck for stain. Pressure washing can help, but if you want your stain to last, using a good deck cleaner and brightener on the deck prior to pressure washing will provide you the best result.
Should you pressure wash your deck?
For cleaning a wooden deck, you’ll be best served by using the lowest pressure setting that’s still effective. For soft woods like cedar or pine, this is usually about 500 to 600 psi. For harder woods, it can go up to 1200 to 1500 psi. Choose the right tip to use as well.
Will an outdoor rug damage a wood deck?
Placing just any outdoor rug material may end up damaging your wood deck in several ways. It can stain, rot, cause mold or mildew growth and scratches to your wood deck which is costly to replace. Which means you must be careful when shopping for outdoor rugs especially when you are looking to decorate the space.
How often should a wooden deck be sealed?
every three years
When Should I Reseal My Deck? You should reapply wood sealer at least every three years. In many cases, you need to seal a wood deck once a year. The more foot traffic and sun exposure your deck gets, the more often you need to apply deck sealant.
How long will a deck last without stain?
After 6 months, the wood will start to lose its color and will begin to fade. Ultimately it will fade to grey or silver.
How often do you need to waterproof a deck?
once a year
The general rule of thumb is to get your deck waterproofed once a year, especially if you live in areas that see a lot of rainfall. Another thing to consider is whether or not you live in an area that gets a lot of direct sunlight year round.
What is the best time of year to seal a deck?
Summer
Summer is generally the best time to waterproof your deck because it gives you the opportunity to clean it thoroughly and seal it properly without worrying about rain.
Should wood decks be sealed?
A backyard deck is the perfect platform for good times, but that wooden surface needs a proper sealant to protect it against the ravages of sun, rain, and temperature fluctuations.
When should a deck be sealed?
For most decks, sealing once each year is a good rule of thumb. Depending on the condition of your deck this can be adjusted, but keep in mind that you should never go beyond three years maximum before re-sealing and staining.
Do you have to waterproof deck?
Because decks have direct contact with the outdoor elements, wood decks need to be properly sealed and waterproofed. If you haven’t sealed and waterproofed your deck, we highly recommend you invest.
Does pressure treated wood need to be sealed?
Although treated wood is protected against decay and termite attack, the application of a water-repellent sealer to all exposed wood surfaces is recommended upon completion of construction. This sealer will help control surface checking (splitting or cracking) and provide an attractive appearance.
Does deck stain protect wood?
Deck stains protect the wood from moisture, precipitation, rot, mold, and mildew. They also have a color pigment or tint added that prevents wood from graying due to UV rays and sun damage. Deck stain is similar to deck sealer, except it offers more protection from the sun, minimizing the graying of the wood.
Is it necessary to stain deck?
Many homeowners wonder, “How often should I stain my deck?” To keep a deck looking great and prolong the life of the wood, a deck should be stained every two to three years. Other signs your deck needs staining are: The deck has mold or mildew buildup. Water soaks into the deck boards and no longer beads up.
