How to Keep Your Deck in Top Shape: Simple Tips and Tricks

Your home’s deck can be a source of entertainment, connection with nature, meals, and even quality time with loved ones. They’re also a pricey addition to your home, so you’ll want to keep it beautiful and durable for years to come. Regardless of what type of deck you have and what you use it for, you’ll need to know how to keep it in tip-top shape to prevent damage, safety issues, or costly repairs.

Use High-Quality Materials

To set you and your deck up for long-term success, you don’t want to cut corners when it comes to materials. Decks are usually made of wood, PVC (plastic), metal, or a combination of these options (composite). You can choose whatever type you’d like, but you should make an informed decision.

Metal

Metal, usually steel, is the strongest, most durable deck material, but it comes at a higher price. It can also attract heat, so you’ll need to prepare with awnings or reflective paint. Metal is not a typical choice for entire decks, as it’s usually reserved for railings or support. It also features a sterile, industrial look that some homeowners don’t enjoy as much as wood.

Wood

Wood is a classic choice for a deck because of its natural look and durability. However, not all wood is equal. Hardwood will usually last longer than softwood. Pressure-treated wood (typically pine) can help softwood last longer and resist elemental damage or pests, however. Regardless of the type of wood you choose, it will normally require regular staining, sealing, and sanding to keep it in prime condition.

Composite

Composite decking mixes wood and recycled PVC (plastic) for better durability and less vulnerability to the elements. It’s more eco-friendly than traditional PVC, and you can keep the natural look of wood. Capping composite wood can help provide further protection against damage and weather. It’s typically more expensive than wood by itself but more affordable than PVC.

PVC

PVC is a type of polymer material (plastic) popular with decks. It’s very durable and practically maintenance-free, unlike wood. However, it costs a lot, and plastic is very bad for the environment. Certain PVC decks are recyclable or made from recyclable material, which is an ideal alternative. I found a deck builder near me that utilized high-quality, recyclable PVC decking easily, so you can still go this route if sustainability is important to you.

Avoid Exposed Screws

During installation or natural wear and tear, screws can become exposed in wood or composite decks. Raised screws can be a safety hazard, as occupants can trip over or step on them. You’ll want to keep an eye out for these, as they can be quite common. Make sure all screws are completely flush with the material. The best approach is to use hidden deck fasteners so nothing is visible except the deck boards.

Keep It Clean

All deck materials need to be cleaned. Pests, leaves, and dirt can stain your deck, making it less attractive. Excessive water, grime, and dirt can lead to material rot or mold, especially when it comes to wood decks. Excessive water damage can also rust metal materials. Rinse off your deck regularly with a hose to keep dirt and debris off. You should power wash it once in a while to get a thorough clean. Blowing leaves and dry matter off of the deck with a leaf blower or similar tool can also keep your deck clean.

Treat and Replace Wood Regularly

If your deck has any type of wood material, you’ll need to keep it stained and sealed regularly to prevent it from looking like a weathered barn. Staining and sealing protect it from harsh sunlight and water damage. When left untreated, it can warp, rot, or crack much easier from extreme temperatures or excess water. Even when treated, wood doesn’t last forever. If you notice a board or plank that is excessively warped or soft, you should replace it to prevent further damage or safety hazards.

Provide Shelter

The sun and rain make your deck very vulnerable. Even with durable materials like metal, PVC, or composite wood, sunlight can stain or wash out the color of your deck. Consider placing your deck under shelter from the elements. An awning can help protect your deck nicely. There are even retractable awnings so you can enjoy your deck in full sun in limited doses.

Address Mold

Exposure to water can make your deck vulnerable to mold, especially with wood (and untreated wood). Mold can appear quicker than most people realize. If you’ve found any sign of mold spores on your deck, you’ll want to clean and treat it immediately. Soap and water cannot get rid of mold on its own. You’ll want to use specific store-bought mold remover or vinegar and baking soda to kill the mold. Bleach can help get rid of mold, but it can stain your deck, so it’s best to avoid it.

Prevent Corrosion

If you have any metal or steel on your deck, even in limited amounts, you’ll want to inspect it for rust or corrosion. Water can make metal susceptible to rust. You can paint or seal metal from rust damage with regular applications. Keeping your deck clean and using galvanized metal can also prevent rust.

Conclusion

Your deck is a special part of your home, and it took a lot of work and money to build it. You should treat it with care and keep it clean so you and future generations can continue enjoying nature and your home’s outdoor space. You can choose any material you’d like for your deck as long as you maintain it and address damage as soon as possible. A well-maintained deck can also keep your property value high!