Leaves and sticks settle into the gaps between deck boards, along the house, and inside the railing system. That debris holds moisture, and moisture accelerates the rot process on anything it sits against. It is the quiet start to almost every deck problem we get called out for, and it is entirely preventable. To prevent these common deck issues, you only need three habits: clear the debris, use products approved for what your deck is made of, and do the work at the right time of year. Get those right, and you spend your weekends on the deck instead of under it.
Clear the Debris First to Prevent Common Deck Issues
Whether you have composite or wood, come out early spring and then periodically throughout the year. The one thing to stay on top of is keeping debris out of the gaps.
That means between the deck boards, between the deck and the house, and in and around the railing systems. Any cavity that holds leaves and sticks holds moisture too, and that moisture speeds up rot on anything it sits against. Keeping those spaces clear is the first job.
Pro Tip: Make debris removal a routine, not a reaction. The cleaner you keep the gaps, the less work everything else becomes.
Maintaining a Composite or PVC Deck
Composite and PVC decking takes most of the work off your plate, but it is not zero maintenance. Plan to hose the surface off periodically and give it a light wash when it needs one.
Keep the Pressure Low
Up to 1,600 PSI for a composite deck, and up to 1,300 PSI for a PVC deck. Do not go higher than that.
Be Careful with Cleaners
Dawn dish detergent works. Beyond that, there are approved chemicals, but they need to be specific to your brand and approved as such. Deckorators allows Zep Fast 505. For TimberTech and Azek, you can use a Timber deck cleaner.
A lot of products on the shelf say they are safe for composites. That does not necessarily mean they are approved for your brand. If you use an unapproved product and something happens, like a blemish or a discoloration, you could potentially void your warranty. Check with your manufacturer before you try anything new.
Need help with your deck? Contact DW Decks for a free consultation and let our team handle the hard part.
Maintaining a Wood Deck
Wood decks need power washing and resealing, and timing matters more than most people expect.
Wash and Reseal in Spring or Fall
These are the best windows for the job. If you apply stain in the middle of summer when it is really hot, the stain coagulates and thickens before it can sink in and penetrate the wood properly. A milder climate gives you a much better result.
Aim for 50 to 80 Degrees
That range is the sweet spot for applying sealant.
Power Wash Thoroughly, but Keep Your Distance
Once wood becomes wet and you bring a power washer in too close, especially a high-powered one, you can groove and tear up the wood. Work carefully.
Let it Dry for a Couple of Days
Do not seal a wet deck.
Watch your Overnight Lows
If temperatures drop below 40 degrees while the deck is drying or curing, you can end up with splotchiness. Holding that 50 to 80 degree range is really the key to the whole job.
Key Takeaway: For any deck, clear the debris. For composite and PVC, wash gently and use only brand-approved products. For wood, wash and reseal in spring or fall, dry for a couple of days, and stay in the 50 to 80 degree range.
Protect Your Deck with DW Decks
A lasting deck comes down to routine care done at the right time of year. Whether you have a wood deck due for a reseal or a composite deck you want cleaned without risking the warranty, our team has the hands-on experience to guide you. Ready to protect your investment and your weekends? Schedule a free consultation with DW Decks today.