Presenting a beautiful and natural appearance, wood decks are an excellent — and affordable —way to enhance your home’s exterior. Even better, these materials are typically treated to be weather-resistant and deliver a long service life. But, if you want to get the most out of this investment, it’s still important to follow a few simple maintenance guidelines. To help you protect your wood deck, here are a few general tips for upkeep to keep in mind.

What Are the Best Ways to Maintain Wood Decks?

Keep the Surfaces Clean

In addition to affecting the appearance, dirt and other outdoor elements can gradually wear away at wood surfaces and cause lasting damage. To prevent these issues, sweep your decking at least once every few weeks.

Every few months, give the surfaces a deep clean from all sides — including the underside. Usually, a hose with a spray nozzle is all you’ll need. If there are stubborn patches of dirt, scrub the area with a mild, non-bleach cleanser and rinse with water. To combat mildew, use a specialized acid-based cleaning product that features wood-safe chemicals.

Inspect Annually

While you should always monitor the quality of your deck, it’s smart to conduct an in-depth inspection of the materials at least once a year — such as after the winter. If you spot signs of deterioration or wood rot, addressing the problem earlier on will help prevent more extensive damage. In many cases, small issues can be repaired in a cost-effective fashion by a trusted deck builder.

Strip Old Coatings

Every two to three years, decks should be re-stained and sealed to properly defend against the elements. Before these protective coatings are applied, older layers should be removed using a wood-safe stripping agent. Once these chemical solutions wear away the older coatings, it’s generally a good idea to lightly sand the wood so that future applications can properly penetrate the surface.

Stain & Seal

Staining the wood surface will give your deck a beautiful and cohesive coloration, as well as prevent the wood from rotting. When choosing a stain, make sure the product is waterproof and resistant to UV damage. While stains are often preferred, some homeowners may choose to opt for an exterior wood paint that offers similar benefits.

Once staining is complete, apply a sealant to the deck surfaces for additional UV and water protection. Typically, oil-based sealants are more reliable than water-based options.

When you want an easy-to-maintain wood deck, it’s important to have it installed by a trusted specialist. That’s why Kalispell, MT, homeowners turn to Valley Fence for custom wood deck and patio services. For over 15 years, this Flathead Valley deck builder has crafted gorgeous and reliable structures using the highest-quality materials. No matter how big or small the job, you can count on these specialists to deliver results that fit your specific needs. To learn more about their impressive capabilities, visit this deck and fence company online. You can also call (406) 755-9799 to discuss your project with a friendly expert.