Your deck is exposed to various weather conditions, foot traffic, and general wear and tear throughout the year. Besides getting professional deck cleaning annually, regular deck maintenance is still crucial to ensure its longevity, safety, and aesthetic appeal. Without proper care, your deck can deteriorate quickly, leading to costly repairs or even the need for a complete replacement.

Here are some best practices for ongoing care between deep cleans that you can do as a homeowner to get the most out of your deck.

Deck Care and Maintenance Tips

Spot Cleaning

Sweep Regularly: One of the simplest and most effective ways to maintain your deck is to sweep it regularly. Use a broom or leaf blower to remove leaves, dirt, and other debris that inevitably accumulate over time. This way, you won’t have organic matter decaying on your deck, which can lead to stains, mold growth, and wood rot. Make it a habit to sweep your deck at least once a week, or more frequently during seasons when debris accumulates quickly.

Clean Spills Immediately: Accidents happen, and spills are inevitable. Whether it’s a dropped drink or a tipped-over plate, it’s crucial to clean up those messes as quickly as possible. Use a clean cloth or some paper towels and blot the spill, then give the area a good rinse with water. If you’re dealing with a grease or oil-based spill, you might need to use a special degreaser that’s made for your type of deck. Just remember, the longer you wait to clean up a spill, the harder it’ll be to get rid of later!

Rinse Thoroughly After Cleaning: Once you’ve finished spot cleaning or using a cleaning solution on your deck, don’t forget to give it a good rinse with clean water. A garden hose or a pressure washer on a low setting should do the trick, but be careful not to use too much pressure and damage the wood.

Sealing

When you seal your deck, you’re essentially giving it a protective shield against the elements. It helps prevent water damage, fading from the sun, and even splinters that can ruin your outdoor fun. Plus, a properly sealed deck looks great and can enhance your home’s overall appearance.

How often you need to seal your deck depends on what it’s made of. For most wood decks, it’s a good idea to seal them every one to three years. If you have a composite or PVC deck, you might be able to go a bit longer between each sealing, like every three to five years. However, if your deck gets a lot of direct sunlight or heavy foot traffic, you may need to seal it more often to keep it in top shape.

Protecting Your Deck

Use Furniture Pads: You’ve put a lot of effort into keeping your deck looking great, so don’t let your furniture undo all that hard work. Invest in some furniture pads under the legs of your tables and chairs. These cushions act as a barrier between your furniture and your deck, preventing scratches and scuffs.

Place Mats Under Grills and Planters: Grilling out is one of the best parts of having a deck, but hot grease and spills can leave behind some nasty stains. To keep your deck looking clean, place a mat or a drip pan under your grill to catch any unintentional splatters. The same goes for planters – put a saucer or tray under them to prevent water stains and dirt buildup on your deck. These small steps can save you a lot of cleaning headaches down the line.

Winterizing Your Deck

Remove Furniture and Accessories: As the leaves start to fall and the weather starts turning cold, it’s time to start thinking about winterizing your deck. The first step in this process is to remove all furniture and accessories from your deck. Removing these items will provide you with a clean and clear space to work with when it comes time to winterize your deck.

Clean and Seal Before Winter: Before the first frost arrives, it’s crucial to thoroughly clean and seal your deck. Sweep away any debris and then scrub the surface with a mild detergent solution. Then, apply a fresh coat of sealer to provide protection against moisture damage after your deck has dried.

Use a Deck Cover: For those who want to provide the ultimate protection for their deck during the winter months, investing in a deck cover is an excellent option. These covers are specifically designed to fit securely over your deck as they create a barrier that protects against snow, ice, and moisture.

Reap The Long-Term Benefits of Proper Deck Care

Getting your deck professionally cleaned is essential to keep it in the best condition so it can last for years to come. However, in between deep cleaning, it’s still crucial for you to care for and maintain your deck. Simply dedicating a little extra time and effort to these tasks can help prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your deck. If you need any more tips on the best ways to care for your deck, don’t hesitate to call us.