A beautiful deck starts with proper care. Whether your deck is hardwood, softwood, or composite, a consistent maintenance routine can extend its lifespan and keep it performing at its best. At AdvantageLumber.com, we want your deck to look exceptional year after year, and using the right maintenance products makes all the difference.
Below are the essential do’s and don’ts of deck care, plus tips to avoid common mistakes.
DO: Clear the Deck Before Cleaning
Before you begin, remove all furniture, rugs, plants, umbrellas, and accessories. This allows you to clean every section evenly and prevents moisture from becoming trapped beneath objects. Sweep the deck surface to remove debris like leaves, pollen, and dirt.
Be sure to:
- Sweep the surface thoroughly
- Clear debris between the deck boards
- Ensure gaps are open for drainage and ventilation
DON’T: Use Excessive Pressure or Harsh Chemicals
While keeping your deck clean is essential, using the wrong methods can cause lasting damage. High-pressure settings on a pressure washer can scar the surface or raise the wood grain. Harsh chemicals and bleach-based products can strip the wood’s natural oils, weaken the fibers, and cause uneven discoloration.
When using a pressure washer:
- Use the lowest pressure necessary
- Keep the nozzle moving at all times
DO: Deep Clean
For wood decks, we strongly recommend the DeckWise® Cleaner and Brightener System. These products are specially formulated to clean hardwoods and restore their natural beauty.
How to use:
- Apply cleaner evenly to the deck.
- Allow it to soak for 10–15 minutes.
- Scrub with a stiff-bristle brush.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Follow with brightener to refresh the wood tone and prepare the surface for finishing.
For composite decking:
A simple mix of soapy water and a soft brush is usually all you need.
DON’T: Apply Oil or Finish Before Deck is Dry
One of the most common deck maintenance mistakes is applying oil or finish before the deck is fully dry. Moisture trapped inside the wood prevents the finish from soaking in properly, leading to sticky spots, blotchy color, or premature peeling.
Another mistake is applying too much product. Hardwood decking only needs a thin, even coat – applying more won’t make the deck “extra protected.” Instead, it can leave the surface tacky and attract dirt
To avoid these issues:
- Only apply finish when the deck is completely dry
- Wipe off any excess oil within 5 – 10 minutes
- Use a thin, even coat
DO: Protect Hardwood Decking With Oil or Sealant
Hardwood decks benefit greatly from periodic oiling. We recommend DeckWise® Ipe Oil to enhance and protect exotic hardwoods like Ipe, Cumaru, Massaranduba, Tigerwood, and Garapa.
Benefits of Ipe Oil include:
- UV protection to slow fading
- Water repellency
- Enhanced natural grain and color
Most hardwood decks only need oiling once every 1–2 years, depending on exposure.
DON’T: Ignore Small Issues
Loose fasteners, mildew spots, and cracked boards only worsen over time. A quick seasonal inspection can prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your deck.
Final Thoughts
With the right routine – sweeping regularly, deep cleaning, and applying a deck sealer- maintaining your deck is simple and incredibly worthwhile. Following these easy do’s and don’ts will help your deck remain beautiful, safe, and durable for years.