Your first step is to clean your deck thoroughly. Fungus and mildew can build up over the summer, especially in the shade or under potted plants where the deck doesn’t dry out for long periods of time. Dirt and rust stains can come from boots or your patio furniture. Through the seasons, you’ll learn your deck and you’ll know where you’ll have to clean each year.

In order to properly maintain your deck, you’ll want to manage the materials properly. Composite materials require a different kind of maintenance on a different schedule than a cedar plank deck. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations on how to use each product, cleaning all of the grime before you get started with anything else.

While it may seem counterintuitive, the first thing that you’ll want to do is to strip away the finish that has deteriorated or you don’t want any more. Again, be sure that you are using the right product for your cleaning. Try a small test area where the material won’t be visible, just in case there is a mistake. Many chemicals in deck repair and maintenance can be toxic or damaging. Make sure you are using the right protective equipment and are careful with any excess or spills. Keep children and pets away from the deck while these chemicals are in use.

Once the deck is cleaned and stripped, it is time to reapply the finish or stain. Some composite materials will never require this kind of maintenance, but solid cedar decks will need it much more regularly. Finally, you’ll want to seal the deck with an approved water-repellant. As snow and ice accumulate through the winter months, this protective coating will keep your deck protected through the winter and spring. Water is the enemy of wood, causing it to crack, warp or split as it goes through natural freeze-and-thaw cycles.

If you’ve ever repaired or replaced a deck, you know that it can come at some considerable time and expense.