Handyman

Deck Maintenance: Protecting Your Investment

June 20, 2025
Handyman Team
6 min read
Deck Maintenance: Protecting Your Investment

A wood deck is a wonderful extension of your living space, but its horizontal surfaces take a beating from sun, rain, and snow. Annual maintenance is crucial to protect the wood from rot, prevent splinters, and keep your deck looking beautiful for years to come. A weekend of work each year can save you from a huge replacement cost down the line.

🔍 Step 1: Inspection

Before you do anything else, give your deck a thorough inspection. Look for:

🔩
Loose or Popped Nails/Screws: Hammer down or replace any fasteners that have worked their way loose.
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Damaged Boards: Check for any split, cracked, or rotting deck boards that need to be replaced. Pay special attention to stairs and railings.
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Wobbly Posts and Railings: Ensure that all support posts and railings are solid and secure for safety.

🧼 Step 2: Thorough Cleaning

You must clean the deck thoroughly to remove dirt, mildew, and old, flaky sealer before applying a new coat.

1
Sweep and Prep: Clear the deck of all furniture, grills, and planters. Sweep away all leaves and debris.
2
Apply a Deck Cleaner: Use a deck cleaner specifically formulated for wood. Follow the product's instructions, which usually involve applying it with a garden sprayer and letting it sit.
3
Scrub and Rinse: Scrub the deck with a stiff-bristled brush to work the cleaner in. Then, rinse thoroughly. A pressure washer on a low setting can be used, but be careful not to damage the wood fibers.
4
Let it Dry Completely: The deck must be bone dry before you can apply a sealer, which may take 24-48 hours depending on the weather.

🛡️ Step 3: Sealing and Staining

Applying a new coat of sealer or stain is the most important step for protecting the wood.

A good sealer will provide UV protection to prevent graying and will repel water to prevent rot and splitting. Test your deck's seal by sprinkling water on it; if the water beads up, the seal is good. If it soaks in, it's time to reseal.

Apply the sealer or stain with a roller, brush, or pad, following the manufacturer's directions for the best results.

Protect your outdoor investment with proper deck care. If you need help with repairs, cleaning, or sealing, contact The Box Advantage Group. Our professional handyman services can restore your deck and get it ready for another season of enjoyment.

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