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:

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Loose or Popped Nails/Screws: Hammer down or replace any fasteners that have worked their way loose.

boards

Damaged Boards: Check for any split, cracked, or rotting deck boards that need to be replaced. Pay special attention to stairs and railings.

post

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.

Sweep and Prep: Clear the deck of all furniture, grills, and planters. Sweep away all leaves and debris.

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.

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.

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 Aircare In A Box. Our professional handyman services can restore your deck and get it ready for another season of enjoyment.