Regular deck maintenance preserves your outdoor living space, preventing damage and prolonging its lifespan. Check for rot and other structural issues with a screwdriver, probing especially near stairs and where structures meet the ground.

Wash your deck annually with a mild detergent and brush to remove dirt and grime and prevent mold and mildew growth. Contact Deck Builders Baltimore County for professional help.

Whether your deck is wood or composite, it must be cleaned annually to remove organic debris such as leaves, twigs, dirt and acid rain residue that settles on the surface. These contaminants provide a food source for molds, mildew and fungus to grow. Keeping the deck clean prevents these organisms from getting a foothold and damaging the wood.

You can purchase commercial deck cleaners that are designed specifically for your type of decking or you can make your own cleaning solution using common household products such as liquid dish soap (ammonia-free) and water for a wood deck, or white vinegar for a composite deck. Follow the product’s directions for use.

Begin by sweeping the entire deck to remove any loose debris. Next, apply the cleaning solution to a small area of the deck at a time. Use a sprayer or brush broom to apply the cleaner, making sure it is saturated. Scrub the deck in a direction that runs parallel to the wood grain. Allow the cleaner to soak for the time recommended by the manufacturer. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Be careful not to over-saturate the deck with cleaner because this can cause the boards to lift. A power washer is a quick way to remove heavy buildup of dirt and grime, but only use it on low to medium pressure. High-pressure power washing damages the decking and may result in damage to the railings, stairs or ledger boards.

After the deck is clean it is ready to be stained or sealed. Before applying any stain or sealant, sprinkle a little water on the deck. If it absorbs immediately, the deck is ready to be sealed or stained.

Inspection

Deck inspections involve a walk around to listen for any squeaks and feel for soft spots, as well as looking for cracks or signs of rot. A professional can identify any problems and suggest repairs that will extend the life of the deck.

Look at the floorboards and joists to make sure there is no cupping (indentation of the wood) caused by heavy loads. Also examine the fasteners, ledger board and hardware connectors to ensure they are not rusted. This is particularly important because a compromised ledger is the biggest cause of deck collapse. Then move on to the stairs and railing, checking for proper spacing between balusters and riser height and evaluating step stringers and handrail stability. A good professional inspector will be able to identify if your deck is not up to code in terms of railing height or spacing and can address these issues before they become serious safety hazards.

The last area to check is under the deck. Climb under the deck with a flashlight and probe structural boards for signs of rot, especially near the ground and where the deck is attached to your house. You should be able to push a screwdriver about a quarter-inch into suspect areas without any resistance.

If you find any areas of rot, a qualified carpenter can evaluate the situation and treat the rotten section to prevent further deterioration and maintain the safety of the deck. Any sagging or drooping sections of the deck beams are also a cause for concern and require expert assessment and repair. Moisture buildup under the deck can also be a problem. A professional can recommend the right moisture control system for your deck and home to avoid the need for expensive structural repairs in the future.

Repair

If a deck’s structural members are showing signs of damage or deterioration, it’s time to consider repairs. If only a few boards are affected, repair is likely sufficient, but if the structural members are rotting or sagging, replacing them is best for your deck’s lifespan.

Checking for rot is easy with a simple probe of the wood. If you can’t firmly press your screwdriver into a suspected area, it’s time to replace the board or framing member.

Loose floorboards also require attention. Not all loose boards are a serious issue, but if they’re on the edge of the deck or close to stairs and railings, they can fall on people walking by. Check that stair railings and handrails are secure, too. A wobbly railing could cause someone to trip and hurt themselves, so you need to fix it right away.

It’s also important to protect your deck from the sun’s harsh UV rays, which can fade the surface and cause splintering. Using stain or other protective coatings helps prevent this damage, and reapplying the coats regularly is essential. To help your new stain last, lightly sand the surface before applying it, and choose a two-day period when you’ll have clear skies and moderate temperatures. A small scrub brush with stiff bristles, such as one used to clean bathtubs, is a good choice for cleaning and pre-staining. It’s best to use a product that’s compatible with the type of decking you have, so check labels. A composite or PVC deck needs a different product than a wood deck.

Staining

Staining decks adds color, highlights wood grain and helps protect the surface from weather damage. Deck stains also offer added moisture resistance, which is critical in regions with long cold winters that cause wood to expand and contract.

Before staining, inspect your deck for any rotted or warped boards that should be replaced. It’s also important to check for loose nails or deck screws that could become exposed during cleaning and cause structural problems.

Whether you’re using a natural wood finish, semi-transparent or solid stain, be sure to test the color in an inconspicuous spot before applying it to your entire deck. The color should be even and not fade or discolor over time. You can purchase a wide variety of wood stain products, from natural-looking shades that highlight the wood grain to darker tints that transform the look of your deck.

Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for staining your deck, and be sure to wear eye protection and gloves. It is best to stain your deck on a dry day, as humidity will affect the quality of the finished project. A tarp should be placed over the area being stained to protect plants and surfaces surrounding your deck.

To apply the stain, start with a small section of the deck and use a brush to spread the product. Work in long, straight strokes to achieve an even coat. Let the first coat set for 20 minutes, then back-brush to cover any areas you may have missed. Repeat this process until the deck is fully coated and let it dry for at least 24 hours. Afterward, clean the brushes and paint tray. If you’d like, a second coat can be applied to your deck for maximum protection.

Sealing

Reapplying stain and sealing your deck can help protect it from weathering, fading, rot, insects and other damage. Depending on your deck’s exposure and foot traffic, it may need to be resealed every one to three years. Keeping up with resealing ensures that your deck remains sturdy and attractive, a centerpiece of your home.

Before you apply a new coat of sealer, it’s important to make sure your deck is completely clean. This includes removing any furniture, plants and other items from the deck surface and washing it using a pressure washer. You may also need to sand the deck before you can apply the sealer, as this will help it adhere properly. If you need to sand, use a pole sander with 80-grit paper. Wear a dust mask and protective eyewear while sanding to avoid inhaling sawdust.

Once your deck is completely dry, you can begin the resealing process. Depending on the type of sealer you’re using, it may require one or two thin coats to get the best results. Before applying a coat, stir the sealer to mix it thoroughly and then apply it to two-to-three board sections at a time, using your choice of applicator (painter’s brush, roller or sprayer). Let each coat dry for 24 to 48 hours before you use the deck.

Be timely with resealing, as even the best sealants aren’t permanent. Read the instructions on your sealant to determine when it will need to be reapplied and make note of that date in your calendar. This will help you keep up with resealing, protecting your deck from water damage and prolonging its lifespan. Adding a caulk sealant to the gaps between your deck boards is another good way to protect your deck and prevent moisture from seeping into the wood.