It’s True: Your Deck Won’t Last Forever
But you can keep it in great shape for 20, 30… even 50 years. The key is some annual TLC. So, to help you best protect your investment—and maximize summer sunsets and cool mornings sipping coffee—we’re bringing you the Ultimate Guide to DIY Deck Maintenance and Upkeep in 2026.
With a quick scan, you’ll learn how to keep your deck safe, looking great, and enjoyed by loved ones year after year.
Do Wood vs Composite Decks Have Different Maintenance Requirements?
Wood and composite decks are not created equal—especially when it comes to maintenance.
Wood decks require:
- Twice-annual cleanings to prevent mold and mildew
- Sanding every 2–3 years to keep decks safe and comfortable
- Staining/sealing to protect from UV damage every 2–3 years
Additionally, wood is more susceptible to rot, insect damage, and splintering—meaning occasional repairs to keep your wood deck structurally sound.
Composite decks, on the other hand, are much lower maintenance.
Typically, composite materials only require:
- Annual cleanings to prevent slippery mildew in shady areas
As these beams are made from a mix of wood fibers and plastic, there’s no sanding, sealing, or staining required—ever. Plus, composite materials are naturally UV and pest-resistant…
Something to consider if you’re thinking of investing in a custom deck design.
What Should I Inspect My Deck For Each Year?
Annual inspections help keep your deck safe and enjoyable year after year.
If you haven’t done a recent inspection, check for the following immediately:
- Loose boards or railings
- Rusted nails or screws
- Wood rot or soft spots
- Cracks, splits, or popping sounds when you walk
A simple DIY inspection is a great preventative against more serious issues. However, investing in a professional inspection every few years ensures your custom deck stays safe and sound through decades of use.
How Can I Prevent Mold and Mildew on My Deck?
With a few preventative measures, you can easily avoid mold and mildew growth on your deck.
Regularly perform the following to keep your deck safe and dry:
- Sweep leaves and dirt from deck surface (daily—weekly)
- Scrub deck with a commercial or DIY mildew-fighting solution (yearly)
- Trim nearby plants and trees to reduce shaded areas (yearly or more)
- Rearrange furniture to prevent moisture buildup (monthly during peak season)
Tip: Mold and mildew are more likely to appear on the north side of your home or under heavy shade—something to consider when planning your backyard deck design.
Is it Safe to Pressure Wash My Deck?
It is safe to pressure wash your deck—with a few caveats.
Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a fan tip and keep PSI under 1,200 for wood decks
- Hold wand 8–12 inches from deck surface
- Move in long, even strokes—don’t hover in one spot
- Always test on an inconspicuous area first
While a common DIY solution, it may be worth hiring a pro or speaking with your local deck repair contractors to avoid potential damage. While an effective cleaning tool, poor technique with a pressure washer can sometimes damage deck boards.
How Do I Protect My Wooden Deck From Sun Damage?
While composite decks are manufactured to be UV-resistant, wood decks need special attention to avoid fading, cracking, and splinters under direct sunlight.
- Apply UV-blocking stain or sealer every 1-2 years
- Choose a light-colored stain to reflect sunlight
- Use outdoor rugs or furniture for protection (just be sure to rearrange occasionally for mold and mildew prevention)
While wood will age more quickly than composites under the sun’s powerful rays, these simple steps can help extend the life and performance of your wood deck.
How Do I Prevent Warping, Cracking, and Rot on Wooden Decks?
Warping, cracking, and rot on wooden decks are the result of two things in southeastern PA:
- Moisture buildup
- Seasonal temperature swings
While you can’t prevent the rain, snow, and fickle weather of our area, you can take a few preventative measures to help keep your wood deck planks in great shape over the years.
- Keep your deck properly stained and sealed (prevents moisture intrusion)
- Check for pooling water, uneven beams, and proper drainage
- Replace damaged, rotted, or splintered boards promptly
- Keep the space under your deck well-ventilated
- Move furniture, planters, and rugs monthly
One more thing: If your deck was installed without proper flashing or ventilation, a consultation with a trusted deck repair contractor might be your best bet. Otherwise, even the best DIY prevention won’t be enough to keep your deck dry throughout the year.
How Do I Protect My Deck During the Winter?
Winter is tough on decks—especially if it’s made from wood.
Here’s how to keep your deck protected this coming winter:
- Remove furniture, planters, and rugs toward the end of fall
- Clean your deck thoroughly before winter weather hits
- Check and reapply sealants (if needed) every 1-2 years
- Use a plastic shovel to remove fresh snowfall (metal scratches deck surface)
- Refrain from using salt or harsh chemicals unless approved for composite decks
With these simple practices, you can mitigate most winter weather damage—and keep your deck standing strong for years to come.
What if My Deck is Already Damaged?
Small signs of damage—loose boards, cracked planks, popped nails—can often be remedied by the homeowner. However, larger issues like structural rot, sagging beams, or widespread mold are best handled by a professional.
What most homeowners don’t know is that deck repair contractors can restore a deck to like-new condition without having to tear it all out. That being said, larger repair jobs may, in fact, present you with the perfect opportunity to upgrade your outdoor living space.
If you’re in Lancaster, Berks, or Chester County and are looking to refresh your old deck (or build a completely new one, customized to your wildest dreams), give Smucker Exteriors a call.
We’ll send out a certified contractor to inspect your deck and provide you with a quote on repairs or a complete remodel: absolutely free and with zero obligations. If you decide to move forward with your project, your deck is covered by our Lifetime Workmanship Warranty, plus the assurance that comes from working with high crews trained beyond industry standards.
So don’t put your dream deck on the back burner any longer. Take the first step toward an incredible outdoor living space today—with a free quote from a contractor caring for PA homeowners for over 25 years.
Smucker Exteriors knows how important your home is—and our crews have been serving Pennsylvania homeowners with complete exterior remodels, including roofing, siding, new windows, doors, and custom decks for over 25 years. All of our work is backed by a Lifetime Workmanship Warranty and the assurance that comes from highly-skilled crews and reputable products—meaning there’s no reason to wait on getting your free quote in Lancaster, Chester, or Berks counties today! Reach out now!
