Maintaining a Wood Deck

A wood deck is a great way to enjoy the outdoors. Traditional wood decks are constructed from a variety of species, from softwoods to exotic hardwoods.

Hardwoods outperform softwoods in durability, weather-resistance and longevity. However, they typically cost more upfront than their softwood counterparts. They also require annual maintenance to keep them looking good.

Choosing Your Materials

Building a deck is a big project to tackle and there are many things to consider. The type of materials, budget, timeline and design are just a few of the main factors that will dictate your deck’s final look and function.

Wood is a cost-effective construction material that allows for maximum flexibility in terms of design and layout. Wood is also a naturally beautiful material that can be stained to match the natural surroundings on your property.

The least expensive wood is pressure-treated pine, which is rot and insect resistant. However, this wood is prone to shrinking and warping over time. Cedar and redwood offer a superior lifespan but are typically three to five times more expensive than pine. Redwood and cedar are a great choice for those looking to make an eco-conscious purchase as this type of timber requires minimal chemical treatment. However, these woods require maintenance as they need to be resealed every year.

Designing Your Deck

Wood decks add value to your home and are a wonderful space for entertaining. To get the most enjoyment from your deck, it’s important to design it according to your needs and desires. Start with a general idea of how you’ll use your deck. Do you want a spot to host family gatherings or do you prefer a quiet retreat where you can relax?

Decide whether you prefer a natural look or the ease of maintenance that comes with a composite deck. Composites, which contain a blend of plastic and wood fibers, come in several color options that can coordinate with your house.

Hardwood decks, on the other hand, are made of slow-growing, broad-leafed tree species like Teak and Ipe. They are extremely durable and require less maintenance, but they can be more expensive than composites.

When designing your deck, it’s also a good idea to keep shade in mind. A trellis or shade cloth can help protect your deck from the sun and prolong its life. If your site has any utility lines, they may need to be relocated before construction begins. Contact your local utilities before digging to avoid severing lines or having to pay for repair costs.

Installing Your Deck

Wood requires an annual cleaning, staining and maintenance that costs money. Consumers need to decide if the upfront savings and natural feel of wood are worth the extra work.

Choose homegrown wood varieties like cedar and redwood if possible. These are more expensive but their natural oils and tannins resist moisture and insects, helping to keep your deck looking great.

Avoid cheap pressure treated pine. This species has been injected with preservatives to protect it from rot and bugs but these chemicals can leach out over time.

Before installing your deck boards, check that the frame’s joists are in good shape. Ensure that the deck board ends are secured to the joists with nails or screws and that a maximum of one-third of the board’s width is overhanging each end. Also, be sure that the deck has adequate ventilation. This helps prevent cupping, surface checking and guarantees that the wood takes on proper humidity levels.

Maintaining Your Deck

A wood deck is a big investment, so keeping it looking good will help prolong its life and ensure that you get the maximum enjoyment from it. The key to maintaining your deck is to prevent problems from occurring rather than reacting to them after the fact.

To start, keep your deck free of debris and leaves. Sweep it frequently to prevent the buildup of moisture and standing water, which can cause mold and mildew. Remove furniture and grills before cleaning, and use a brush or long-handled scrub brush to clean the surface. Always follow the instructions on your chosen cleaning solution.

If you have a pressure-treated deck, it’s important to reseal it annually. Its chemicals can be toxic to the environment and to pets and children, so make sure to wear a mask when working with it. For best results, use stainless steel fasteners. Alternatives to pressure-treated pine include cedar and composites, which look like wood but don’t splinter and resist rot, mildew, insect damage and sun exposure.

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