Are you worried that your deck won’t stand the test of time? Without the right maintenance, even the best-built decks can fall victim to rot, warping, UV damage, scratching, and more. If you neglect to care for your deck properly, you could be looking at expensive repairs or even the need to rebuild entirely much sooner than you'd like.
We understand your deck is an investment in your home that should last for many years, even while facing the Michigan elements. At Custom Built Design & Remodeling, we’ve spent years helping homeowners preserve the beauty and functionality of their decks. With the right care, we know that your deck can last for decades, providing a safe and enjoyable space for your family to create lasting memories.
In this article, you'll learn the most effective strategies to extend the lifespan of your wood or composite Michigan deck, including tips on maintenance, cleaning, and protection:
Extending the Lifespan of Wood Decking
Wood decks, particularly those made from treated lumber, require diligent care to ensure they stand the test of time. Here’s what you need to know:
Allow Your Deck to Dry Out After Installation
When installing a new treated lumber deck, resist the urge to finish or stain it immediately. Newly treated wood contains high moisture levels, and applying a finish too soon can lead to bubbling, peeling, and an unsightly appearance.
Give your deck a full year to dry out and release moisture. After this period, a proper power wash will remove surface dirt and prepare the wood for staining.
Choose the Right Finish
When you finish your deck, opt for a high-quality transparent stain rather than paint. Paint tends to sit on the surface of the wood without penetrating, leading to cracking and peeling over time.
A good stain, on the other hand, soaks into the wood, providing longer-lasting protection and maintaining the deck's natural beauty. Be sure to treat all surfaces, including rails, balusters, treads, and any exposed posts or beams, to protect against moisture and rot.
Pro Tip: We recommend using The Stain Shop! We’ve used their products for years, leading to stellar and long-lasting results.
Regular Maintenance is Key
Commit to an annual maintenance routine to keep your wood deck looking great and functioning well. This includes power washing, staining, and sanding as needed. It’s important note note, though, that depending on you deck’s condition, you can stretch staining to every 1-3 years.
While it might be tempting to go for cheaper materials, remember that quality stain products provide better penetration and longer-lasting results. Cheap stains can flake and wear quickly, meaning more frequent maintenance and a less attractive deck.
Clean Between Staining Cycles
In the years between full staining cycles, you can maintain your deck by washing it with a mild detergent and water solution. Use a scrub brush or broom to clean the surface gently. Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of dirt and debris, which can cause damage over time.
Extending the Lifespan of Composite Decking
Composite decking, such as Trex, offers the advantage of lower maintenance than wood, but it’s not maintenance-free. Here’s how to care for your composite deck:
Regular Cleaning
To maintain the cleanliness and appearance of your composite deck, we recommend starting with a thorough cleaning in the spring to prepare for the summer season. A simple mixture of Dawn dish soap and water, applied with a push broom or scrub brush, is usually effective for regular upkeep. After scrubbing, rinse the deck with a garden hose. This method works well for most decks and is sufficient for routine maintenance.
However, consider a more intensive cleaning if elements like leaves, plants, or pollen surround your deck. Investing in a power washer can make the task easier in such cases. While power washing is generally unnecessary for regular cleaning, it can be helpful in areas with high dust or debris. If you opt for a power washer, use a spray head for light washing to avoid damaging the deck’s surface.
Following these guidelines, you can keep your composite deck pristine and ready for summer activities.
Stain Removal
PC: TimberTech
While composite decking resists deep staining, spills like red Kool-Aid, grape juice, or wine can leave surface stains if not promptly cleaned. The best approach is to clean up spills as soon as possible. If a stain does set, a power washer with a delicate spray head and some elbow grease should do the trick.
Preventing Mold and Mildew
PC: The Spruce
Composite decks can develop mold and mildew, especially those in shaded or wooded areas. Regular cleaning—at the beginning, middle, and end of each season—helps keep this in check. If your deck is on the north side of your home or in a heavily wooded area, be prepared for more frequent cleanings.
Snow and Ice Management
Winter weather poses a unique challenge for composite decks, especially in Michigan, where heavy snowfall is common. A leaf blower or broom is sufficient to clear the surface for light snow. Avoid using metal shovels, which can scratch the decking. If you must use a shovel, opt for a light plastic one, and always check for loose screws that could cause damage.
Avoiding Damage
It’s important to handle heavy furniture with care to keep your composite deck in top condition. Avoid dragging items like iron chairs across the deck's surface, as this can lead to scratches and other damage. Instead, use chair coasters or furniture pads to distribute weight and protect the deck from potential marks.
While Trex composite decks are designed to be highly scratch-resistant, no material is completely immune to scratches. Taking these simple precautions helps ensure your deck remains looking its best for years to come.
Routine Inspections
Annual inspections of your deck’s structure are crucial, even with composite decking. Ensure the understructure is in good condition, and consider using products like joist tape and Trex RainEscape to protect it. Trex RainEscape channels water away from your deck, preventing moisture damage to the understructure and extending its lifespan.
UV Protection
The sun’s UV rays can cause your deck to expand, contract, and fade over time. To minimize this damage, consider adding a sunshade, retractable awning, or other shading solutions to protect your deck from the sun. While Trex decks have a warranty against fading, additional protection can help maximize your deck’s lifespan.
For the best UV protection, however, we recommend investing in Trex Transcend Lineage composite decking. These decking boards feature innovative heat-mitigating technology, which will help keep your deck cool and aesthetically pleasing.
Warranty Considerations
When investing in a composite deck, always inquire about the warranty. Trex offers comprehensive warranties that cover issues like warping and cracking. At Custom Built, we provide extended labor warranties on Trex decks, so if you experience any issues, both parts and labor are covered—giving you peace of mind and ensuring your deck remains a cherished part of your home for many years.
Here’s a more detailed list of the warranties you can enjoy with Trex and Custom Built:
- Trex Composite Decking is covered by Trex’s 25-Year and 50-Year Limited Residential and Fade & Stain warranties (when installed by a Platinum Pro member).
- Due to Custom Built’s TrexPro Platinum deck builder status, our services come with a 10-Year Labor warranty, on top of our Lifetime Workmanship warranty, if both Trex composite decking and railings are installed.
Next Steps to Building or Remodeling Your Deck
If you’re worried that your deck won’t last as long as it should, it’s essential to start with proper maintenance now. Neglecting your deck can lead to costly repairs or even a complete rebuild, cutting short the life of your outdoor space.
By following the expert tips on maintenance, cleaning, and protection, you now have the knowledge to significantly extend your deck's lifespan. Regular care, like power washing, staining, and choosing the right materials, will keep your deck in great condition for decades.
At Custom Built Design & Remodeling, we understand the importance of a long-lasting, beautiful deck. With decades of experience, we’ve guided homeowners in preserving their decks through the right maintenance practices, ensuring they remain a cherished part of the home for years.
Take control of your deck’s future. Contact our team for professional advice on maintaining your deck, or schedule a consultation for a deck assessment.
Now that you know more about how to expand the lifespan of your deck, let’s explore common issues with resurfacing your deck, how much composite decks cost, and the projects that can increase the resale value of your home:
- 6 Common Issues with Resurfacing Your Deck - Learn more about the problems to remember when resurfacing your outdoor living space’s structure.
- How Much Do Composite Decks Cost in Lansing, Michigan? - An overview of how much your Lansing composite deck will cost and the factors that will influence your price.
- 5 Remodeling Projects That Can Increase Resale Value - A high-level review of the various remodeling projects that will increase your home’s resale value, curb appeal, and return on investment.
