Decks come in a variety of forms, but they all have a few things in common. They are usually found outdoors and they are frequently walked upon. These two characteristics make decks an item that must be looked after and maintained frequently and properly. Decks that have been neglected can become safety hazards over time. Whether it is due to wood deterioration or water accumulation, a slippery or unstable deck is a dangerous one.

Home decks are usually made of wood, and can be a beautiful and functional addition to any home. Envisioning many hours of sanding and sealing, many homeowners are daunted at the thought of proper deck maintenance. However, with a bit of information, a few hours of work per year and the right choice of deck coatings, maintaining a safe and beautiful wood deck can be relatively easy.

The first step in deck maintenance is to understand what materials your deck is made out of. Different woods will react differently to cleaning products, so choose appropriately. Use a general cleaner to remove dirt, stains and weathered surface wood cells from the deck. Sanding will give you a clean surface that will absorb sealants, waterproofing agents or other coatings properly.

Deck Coatings Can Protect and Prolong the Life of Your Deck

Sealants or waterproofing agents should be applied to all wooden decks, even if they are made from pressure-treated wood. Pressure treating prevents wood rot but does not seal out water, which is the primary culprit in deterioration of decks. Choosing and applying an appropriate deck coating to waterproof or seal your deck will add years of life to your investment. To add a final level of safety, many companies manufacture clear or high gloss coatings that will increase traction on your deck, even when wet.