Regular cleaning and inspections can help you catch issues such as rot, mold and mildew, and structural instability. Repairing these issues promptly will prevent them from escalating into more extensive damage and potential safety hazards.

Inspect your deck for loose boards, rot and insect infestation. Sand any rough areas before applying a stain to ensure the surface is smooth and will absorb evenly. Contact Deck Builders Baltimore for professional help.

Your deck takes a beating from sunlight, rain, snow and foot traffic. Each year, 33,000 people are injured due to structural failure or collapse of a deck, porch, railing or staircase, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Fortunately, you can avoid injuries by catching problems before they become serious. An inspection of your deck should be done at least annually, according to the American Society of Home Inspectors. In addition to examining the surface of your deck, look for signs of insect infestation and wood rot. Check for loose boards and splinters as well, and take note of any areas that feel soft or have small holes. In addition, check for the presence of standing water on the surface or below. Moisture is the number one cause of deck damage and deterioration, so proper drainage is essential.

Fasteners are the linchpins that hold your deck together. They are often overlooked in the course of regular deck maintenance, but rusted or corroded fasteners can compromise the integrity of your deck and cause it to fail. During a deck inspection, inspect all of the fasteners and connectors (joist hangers, corner brackets, etc.). If they are rusty or corroded, replace them with corrosion-resistant alternatives.

The ledger is a critical part of your deck because it supports the weight of the structure and is attached to the house. It’s the source of 90% of all deck collapses, so it’s important to examine regularly for deterioration and structural problems. To check the condition of your deck’s ledger, use a flashlight to look underneath. Pay particular attention to the metal flashing that attaches the ledger to your home. If the flashing is leaking or damaged, it should be replaced. Also, check the joists and posts for rot and make sure they’re securely fastened to the deck beams.

If you notice a sudden change in the way your deck feels or sounds, it’s a good idea to call an inspector for a thorough assessment. For example, if you walk across your deck and hear a creak that wasn’t there before or the surface feels spongey or springy, get an expert to take a closer look.

Cleaning

Many factors affect the lifespan of a deck, including varying weather conditions and general wear. Regular inspections, cleaning and sealing can help homeowners preserve their outdoor spaces for relaxation and entertainment, adding to the value of their home.

Cleaning is a critical part of deck maintenance that helps prevent mold, mildew and other forms of dirt buildup on the surface. Debris such as leaves, soil, grass clippings and twigs can settle on the deck and trap moisture, creating a perfect environment for fungus to grow. The presence of these organisms can lead to staining and damage to the boards. Regular surface cleaning removes organic debris and keeps the wood sanitary and looking its best.

A number of commercial cleaners are available to remove dirt, mildew and other stains from wooden surfaces. These products typically include chemicals such as bleach, but it is important to check that these cleansers are safe for use with the type of wood used in your deck. Chlorine bleach containing cleaners can discolor treated wood and leave it with an unnatural whitewashed appearance. They can also corrode metal fasteners, screws and nails.

The frequency with which you clean your deck will depend on the amount of foot traffic and other environmental factors, but it is generally recommended to perform a thorough cleaning at least twice per year. It is also a good idea to inspect your deck for signs of wear and tear between cleanings, as prompt repairs can avoid more extensive problems.

After cleaning, it is a good idea to allow the deck to dry for several days. Standing water can attract mosquitoes and other pests, while increased moisture levels can cause rot and encourage the growth of mildew and mold. During this time, it is also a good idea to rearrange furniture and other deck decor to prevent sunken items from mismatching the new color of the deck.

Before applying a sealant or stain, you should lightly sand the deck to smooth rough spots and make the board surface even. This step improves the deck’s appearance and guards against deterioration from moisture and UV light.

Staining

Staining is one of the most frequent maintenance tasks that protects deck surfaces from environmental damage. It also adds aesthetic appeal and complements the home’s exterior.

Wood decks are exposed to a variety of weather conditions that can lead to fading, warping, cracking, rot, and mold growth. Regular staining safeguards against these harmful elements by creating a barrier that prevents moisture infiltration and blocks harmful UV rays.

The most popular staining options include oil-based penetrating stains and water-based semi-transparent stains. Regardless of your choice, it is essential to apply the stain in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure durability and a uniform finish.

Before applying the stain, use a high-quality broom to remove loose dirt and debris from all surfaces of the deck. If necessary, sand rough areas to achieve smooth surfaces, then brush or vacuum away the dust to ensure proper stain absorption.

If you find any severed or rotten boards during your inspection, replace them immediately to prevent further damage and extend the lifespan of the remaining deck. Similarly, if you notice any protruding nails or screws, sink them below the deck surface to prevent structural damage and potential safety hazards.

Choosing the right color for your deck is a vital decision that sets the visual narrative of the space. It is best to conduct a test run on an inconspicuous area to ensure that the hue you select harmonizes with your home’s exterior and the natural surroundings.

Staining is an extensive task, but the results are well worth the time and effort. Once the stain dries, it’s important to protect your work from accidental scratches and marks. Use furniture pads and coasters under heavy items to prevent indentations, and consider installing a protective surface under grills and other outdoor cooking equipment to avoid staining and rusting.

Once the first coat of stain has dried, it’s time to apply additional coats if needed. Aim for even coverage, following the grain of the wood to prevent lap marks and ensure a consistent finish. Allow each coat to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions before applying another. Full curing can take several days to a week, but it is crucial to the stain’s protection and durability.

Sealing

A quality deck stain or sealant locks out moisture, preventing the wood from rot and mildew. It also protects the wood from sun damage. It’s important to reapply the sealant regularly, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Before applying a sealant, make sure the deck is clean and dry. Remove any moss, mildew or dirt using a power washer, if needed. Once the deck is dry, sand the surface to smooth any rough areas and make it even. A good time to do this is in the spring or summer before heavy use of the deck, or in the fall before winter, when you’ll be using the deck less.

The type of sealer you choose will depend on the look you want and how long you want the color to last. There are several types of sealants, including oil and water-based products. Cantor recommends an oil-based sealer as it’s more durable and contains UV protection to help keep the wood from fading. It’s also easier to apply compared to a water-based product.

Water based sealers don’t offer the same durability as an oil-based sealer and can contain chemicals that are not environmentally friendly. If you prefer a more eco-friendly option, go with a water-based product, but be aware that it will need to be reapplied more frequently than an oil-based product.

It’s a good idea to test the surface of your deck by pouring a cup of water on it. If the water puddles up and rolls away, it’s time to reseal. If the color of your deck is fading from the sun, it’s also time to reseal.

A professional deck contractor can reseal your deck and restore its color at the same time. They can also inspect it for structural weaknesses like loose railings and sagging beams. This inspection is particularly important for older decks and those that weren’t properly constructed.

Taking the steps to protect your deck can prolong its life and save you from the expense of replacing it down the road. If you don’t protect it, the wood will eventually rot or mildew, making it unusable and unsightly.