Wooden Deck Care: What To Do To Maintain a Healthy Deck This 2023

/ Uncategorized / By
wooden deck

Whether you’re hosting outdoor parties or enjoying a solo morning coffee, a wooden deck can be an important part of your outdoor leisure experience. But with all the sunshine and rain, your deck is exposed to a lot of wear and tear.

That’s why it’s important to have the right knowledge to keep your deck looking good and functioning well.

LEARN MORE

In this article, we’ll explore the dos and don’ts of wooden deck care so you can maintain a beautiful and healthy deck for years to come.

From the initial installation to ongoing maintenance, we’ll cover all the essentials of wooden deck care, including how to stain and seal your deck, how to clean it properly, and when to replace or repair any damaged or worn-out parts. So let’s get started and learn all about maintaining a healthy wooden deck.

Sample Projects

GET A FREE ESTIMATE

What is a wooden deck?

A wooden deck is a surface that is constructed from wood, making it an excellent option for outdoor living areas. Wooden decks are typically made from timber, although they can also be constructed from other materials, such as composite wood. They are a popular addition to homes across the country and can be installed above or below ground.

Benefits of having a wooden deck

A wooden deck offers many benefits, including increased outdoor living space, improved aesthetics, and increased resale value. A wooden deck can also add value to your home’s energy efficiency rating, making it a smart investment in the long run. For outdoor entertaining, a wooden deck is ideal.

You can transform your deck into a dining area or lounge space, or build a pergola to add shade and shelter from sun and rain. Wooden decks are very durable and long-lasting, requiring little maintenance over time. A properly maintained wooden deck will last for decades, making it a worthwhile investment for your home.

As well as adding value to your home, a wooden deck can provide great outdoor living space and be used for a number of different activities. Wooden decks are easy to clean and simple to maintain, making them an ideal surface for families with young children. For example, wooden decks are easy to wipe down and can be cleaned with a garden hose, making them an ideal surface for families with young children and pets.

Wooden decks can also be easily sanitized, making them a great space for eating outside. They are also a great surface for outdoor entertaining and can provide an excellent setting for a garden barbecue during the summer months. Wooden decks are an ideal space for children to play, as they are easy to clean and offer a soft surface.

They are also an ideal surface for outdoor exercising, as the boards provide good grip, even when they are wet. As well as being great for family life, wooden decks can also be a good investment, as they will increase the value of your property.

Winter weather considerations

In winter, it is vital to protect your deck from extreme temperatures and moisture. While you can use it throughout the year, there are a few things you should keep in mind to keep it in good condition.

First and foremost, you should make sure you keep your deck clear of snow and ice in winter. You can do this by using a snow shovel, a snow blower or a snow shovel with an ice scraper attachment.

When shoveling, make sure you lift the snow away from the deck, rather than pushing the snow against it. This will help to avoid damage to your deck from the snow. It is also important to make sure you are protecting your deck from freezing temperatures. You can do this by covering the deck with a winter cover, or by placing a tarpaulin or heavy-duty plastic around the deck.

If you do not want to use a cover, you can also protect your deck by insulating it with extra material. For example, you can place a blanket or old rugs on top of your deck to help to insulate it.

Tips for avoiding deck damage in winter

As well as protecting your deck from extreme temperatures and moisture, it is also important to avoid causing damage to your deck in winter. When shoveling snow from your deck, try to avoid pushing the snow against the boards.

You should also try to avoid heavy items being placed on the deck, as this can cause damage, particularly when it is wet. Finally, you should avoid using corrosive chemicals on your deck, as these can cause damage, particularly when it is wet.

Best practices for winter deck maintenance

You can protect your deck from extreme temperatures and moisture by using winter covers or placing tarpaulins over the deck. These will help to protect your deck from damage caused by snow and ice. You should also try to avoid causing damage to your deck in winter.

You can do this by avoiding heavy items being placed on the deck, as well as avoiding using corrosive chemicals on it, particularly when it is wet. Finally, try to protect your deck from extreme temperatures and moisture to keep it in good condition all year round.

DIY winter deck maintenance projects

There are a few DIY winter deck maintenance projects you can do to protect your deck. Cleaning and sealing your deck is a great way to protect it from damage during winter, as well as retaining the color. You can also use winter covers or place tarpaulins over your deck to protect it from extreme temperatures and moisture.

Finally, you can also use heat lamps to protect your deck from freezing temperatures. You can do this by placing lamps above your deck, as well as on nearby trees or fences, to create a barrier of warmth. These are simple and inexpensive DIY winter deck maintenance projects that will help to keep your deck protected throughout the winter months.

Finishing the Deck with Stain and Sealant

The most important element of wooden deck care is finishing the deck and protecting it with an exterior stain and sealant. This will protect the wood from damage, staining, and water damage while also adding a protective layer that will help prevent fading in the sun.

As a general rule, you’ll want to apply a fresh coat of stain every 2–3 years, though this time frame may be shorter or longer depending on various factors, including the type of wood, the climate where you live, and the age of the deck. It’s important to note that stain and sealant is not the same thing.

A stain is a colored coat that adds UV resistance while a sealant is a clear coat that protects against water and stains. While stain alone is generally less expensive, we recommend using a combination of both. This will not only protect your deck, but it will also give it a high-gloss finish that looks great.

Cleaning Your Deck

Cleaning your deck is just as important as finishing it, especially if you have a wooden deck. Wooden decks naturally repel water, but they can still collect dirt and debris. This can cause your deck to become dirty, stained, and worn out in a relatively short period of time.

This problem can be even worse in a coastal environment. If you live near the ocean, you’ll need to clean your deck more frequently to prevent it from becoming stained by salt.

Fortunately, cleaning a wooden deck is a fairly simple process. You can either use a pressure washer or a deck brush and soap to clean your deck. If you choose to use a pressure washer, be sure to avoid the use of a high-pressure nozzle, which can damage the wood.

Alternatively, if you want to avoid using a pressure washer, you can use a deck brush and deck cleaner to scrub the surface of your deck. This will remove dirt and algae while also increasing the longevity of your deck.

What are the Don’ts of Wooden Deck Care?

As important as it is to apply a fresh coat of stain and sealant to protect your deck, it’s also important to avoid damaging it in the first place. Here are a few mistakes you’ll want to avoid with wooden deck care:

  • Don’t forget to clean your deck. Even with a fresh coat of stain, dirt and debris can still collect on your deck. Neglecting to clean your deck will cause it to become stained and can lead to other problems like mold and mildew growth.
  • Don’t leave deck furniture out in the rain. Even though your deck might be made of wood, it’s not designed to handle exposure to heavy rain. If you leave your deck furniture out in the rain, it can result in damage to your furniture and to the wood of your deck.
  • Don’t forget to seal your deck. While a fresh coat of stain and sealant will protect your deck from damage, it will only do so for so long.

Over time, your deck will begin to show signs of wear and tear, such as chipping and fading. This will cause your deck to look old and worn-out and is something you can easily prevent by applying a fresh coat of sealant every few years.

When to Replace or Repair Deck Parts

As much as you’d like your deck to last a lifetime, it’s likely that at some point you’ll have to repair or replace parts of it. Here are some common deck problems that require repair or replacement:

  • Worn-out boards: Over time, all wooden decks will show some signs of wear and tear, but you can delay this by regularly inspecting your deck for damage. If you spot worn-out boards, you can replace them before they become dangerous.
  • Deck joints: The joints in your deck are important for strength and longevity. If you notice that your deck joints are loose or cracked, it might be a sign of problems to come. This will require professional repair, so it’s best to address it as soon as you notice it.
  • Decayed posts: Posts support your deck’s weight, so if they become decayed or rotted, you’ll need to replace them.

If you notice any signs of damage, such as splitting or rotting, have a professional assess the damage and determine if replacement is necessary. For example, if you notice your wooden deck boards are beginning to rot, you can replace them right away.

But if your deck is simply showing signs of wear and tear after a few years, you might not need to replace anything. Depending on the severity of damage to your deck, repairs might not be too costly, especially if the damage is minor. If your deck needs to be completely replaced due to damage, you can request the same type of wood that was initially used.

Initial installation considerations

There are a few things you should keep in mind at the beginning of the installation process. First, make sure to choose a desirable decking material. In addition to appearance, you also want a material that is resilient to the elements and durable enough to withstand normal foot traffic.

Next, consider how you want your deck to be laid out. Will it be one large space, a combination of smaller areas, or an outdoor living room? With these decisions out of the way, you can get your deck into construction mode.

The best ways to stain and seal a wooden deck

Choosing the right type of stain and sealant is important for wooden deck care. Stain and sealant are often used in tandem to protect the wood from discoloration and damage caused by the elements, including rain, sun, and snow.

For a typical wooden deck, a water-based stain and a water-based sealant are ideal choices. Water-based stains and sealants are easy to apply, clean up easily with water, and are less toxic than their oil-based counterparts. You can choose from an array of different coloured stains and sealants, allowing you to customize your deck’s appearance.

Dealing with mold and mildew

While it’s normal for wooden decks to get a bit of mildew and mold buildup, excessive amounts can be problematic. To remove mold or mildew from your deck, use bleach-based products or a mixture of water and vinegar.

For a more long-term solution, install deck drainage or add more vents to your deck. This will help you manage any standing water on your deck so mold and mildew don’t have a chance to form.

The importance of regular maintenance

Depending on the type of wood used for your deck, you might need to refinish it every 7 to 10 years. Or you might need to refinish it every 2 or 3 years. For a more exact timeline, speak with a professional deck builder.

They can also help you determine the best maintenance schedule for your deck. Maintaining your deck is just as important as the initial installation and thorough cleaning. And with the right upkeep, your deck will look as good as new for years to come.

Resources for finding a professional deck builder and maintenance provider

Before you start your search for a professional deck builder, you should have a general idea of the type of deck you want and its cost. You can use online roof and deck calculators to get a rough estimate of what your deck will cost.

Then, start searching for local deck builders who are suited to your needs. Ideally, you want a deck builder with experience in your region and who uses high-quality materials. When it comes to finding a maintenance provider, you also want someone who is local and can respond quickly to your needs.

The importance of protecting your deck from the elements

With all the benefits that come with having a deck, it’s important to protect it from the elements. A wooden deck is best when it’s properly ventilated, but you still need to shield it from excessive sunlight and rain.

To protect your deck, you can place a retractable awning over it. Or you can use a porch or patio cover to shield your deck. This will help you maintain proper airflow through the deck while shielding it from excessive sunlight and heavy rain. By protecting your deck, you can extend its lifespan while enjoying it year-round.

Conclusion

Your deck is an important part of your home, and it can be a great source of enjoyment when maintained properly. While it’s possible to do some basic maintenance yourself, it’s important to note that repairs and replacements often require a professional.

It’s also important to note that the above information is meant as a guide. Your specific area might require different maintenance or have different best practices. To be sure you’re doing everything you can to properly maintain your deck, talk to S.M.A.R.T. DECK BUILDER, and let’s get you started.

Latest Post