Deck Maintenance

Deck maintenance is not only important to the homeowner, it is important to the environment. Each year around 3 million new decks are built in the US. Each year another 3 million decks require repairs caused most often by lack of maintenance. These new and repaired decks are a huge drain on the nation’s forests! An average acre of forest yields wood for only two or three decks. So if all decks were properly maintained to make them last the decades they could last, as many as 6 million trees could be saved in 10 years. Let’s talk about maintenance!

Cleaning
Regular cleaning is key to maintenance.
• Sweep dirt and debris off the deck frequently. Leaves can stain a deck and retain moisture which can lead to mold and mildew.

Dry rot is a major deck problem. The fungus feeds on wood. Dry rot often leads to termite infestation. Dry rot requires wet wood. Keeping your deck free of debris which holds moisture will protect you.

• Use planters with feet to prevent stains and moisture retention.

• If your deck is built close to the ground, spread a polyethylene barrier over the soil to keep moisture from seeping up onto your deck.

• Good cleaning products:
Oxygen bleach
Deckwash made by www.Sherwin-Williams.com
Simple Wash made by www.Biowash.com
Stain Solver by AskaBuilder.com

You want a cleaner that will remove oxidation and dissolve hard to remove dirt. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Cleaning with a Power Washer
While it isn’t necessary, using a power washer can make the clean up job faster. But exercise caution! An inexperienced user can damage the deck. Also consider the impact of gasoline or electric powered machines on the environment.

• A proper power washer should provide at least 2000 psi but preferably 2400 psi. Don’t use higher pressure as you can raise the wood grain or even remove a layer of wood.

• For light cleaning, use a 25 degree tip. Use a 15 degree tip for heavier cleaning needs.

• Keep the wand 6-9 inches from the deck surface. Move it in a smooth pendulum motion.


Sealing the Deck
A new deck should not be sealed for the first year. The wood needs to dry out and the fibers need to open. You can treat the deck with a new wood treatment to promote proper weathering.

The deck must be clean before you seal. It also must be completely dry.

You can paint a deck, however, paint won’t hold up as well to foot traffic as a wood stain. Your deck will require less maintenance if you use paint only on railings and balustrades.

Brighteners aren’t required but they can revive the look of the wood. Try:
Revive by www.Sherwin-Williams.com
www.Ewoodcare.com for redwood decks

Wood sealants are most likely your best option.

• Clear Finishes – With no colorant for the wood, these finishes contain water repellant and sometimes preservatives. The best clear finishes contain oils that penetrate the wood and last longer.

• Semi-transparent Finishes – These alkyd stains are more opaque but allow the wood grain to show through. They will penetrate the wood but eventually will fade away.

• Solid Stains – Since the stains site on top of the wood they don’t wear as well. They will fade in traffic areas. They will need to be re-applied annually.

• Deck Finishes – The finishes contain oils or parafins to repel water. They soak into the wood and thus last longer. They also contain preservatives to prevent mildew and mold. UV inhibitors are included to project against sun damage and discoloration.

Regular maintenance can extend the life of your deck by tens of years. Don’t miss this opportunity to save yourself some money and to save some trees!