Spring Checklist (March–April)
- ✅ Remove all debris — leaves, branches, pine needles that accumulated over winter
- ✅ Inspect every board for winter damage — cracks, splits, soft spots, popped nails
- ✅ Check railing posts for wobble (push test — they shouldn't move)
- ✅ Inspect ledger board connection (where deck meets house) — look for gaps or rot
- ✅ Check under-deck for pest activity (carpenter bees, termites, wasps)
- ✅ Clean with deck wash or soap + water and a soft brush
- ✅ Power wash (wood decks only — 1,200-1,500 PSI max, fan tip)
- ✅ For wood decks: apply stain/sealant if water no longer beads on surface
- ✅ For composite decks: spot-clean any mold with Corte Clean or brand-recommended cleaner
Summer Checklist (May–August)
- ✅ Move planters periodically — trapped moisture breeds mold underneath
- ✅ Clean grill drippings immediately — grease stains set permanently on wood
- ✅ Sweep weekly if trees overhang (pollen, sap, leaves)
- ✅ Check for ant trails and wasp nests in joist bays
- ✅ Tighten any loose screws/fasteners (heat expansion loosens hardware)
- ✅ Rinse off sunscreen/insect spray spills — they can stain composite
Fall Checklist (September–November)
- ✅ Clear ALL leaves — wet leaves trap moisture and cause mold/rot (biggest fall risk)
- ✅ Clean between board gaps where debris collects (use a putty knife or gap cleaner)
- ✅ Clean gutters above the deck — overflowing gutters pour water onto deck surface
- ✅ Apply wood brightener + fresh stain coat if skipped in spring (last chance before winter)
- ✅ Check flashing where deck meets house — water intrusion here causes the most expensive damage
- ✅ Store or cover outdoor furniture to reduce winter debris accumulation
Winter Checklist (December–February)
- ✅ Shovel snow with a plastic shovel (metal edges scratch composite and gouge wood)
- ✅ Do NOT use rock salt/calcium chloride on composite decks (can discolor surface)
- ✅ Use sand or kitty litter for traction instead of salt
- ✅ Keep snow from piling against the house/ledger board area
- ✅ After major snow/ice events, inspect for structural stress (sagging, shifting)
- ✅ Do NOT pressure wash in freezing temperatures — water in crevices will freeze and expand
Wood vs Composite — Maintenance Compared
| Task | Wood Deck | Composite Deck |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning | 2x/year + power wash | 1-2x/year soap & water |
| Staining/sealing | Every 1-2 years ($600-$2,000) | Never |
| Sanding | Every 2-3 years | Never |
| Board replacement | As needed (rot, cracks) | Extremely rare |
| Annual cost | $300-$800 | $0-$50 |
| Time per year | 8-15 hours | 1-2 hours |
| 15-year maintenance total | $6,000-$12,000+ | $200-$750 |
Tired of the maintenance cycle? Deck resurfacing replaces your wood boards with composite — keep the frame, eliminate maintenance forever.
When to Call a Pro
- Soft/spongy boards — potential structural rot, needs inspection
- Wobbly railings — safety hazard, may need post replacement
- Deck feels bouncy — possible joist/beam failure, get inspected immediately
- Ledger board pulling away from house — critical safety issue, call today
- Mold returns within weeks of cleaning — may need board replacement or resurfacing
FAQ
How often should I maintain my deck?
Wood: clean + inspect 2x/year, stain every 1-2 years. Composite: clean 1-2x/year with soap and water. No staining ever.
Best time to clean?
Early spring (March-April) and fall (October). Avoid freezing temps and extreme heat.
Do composite decks need maintenance?
Minimal — soap and water 1-2x/year. Remove leaves/debris. No staining, sealing, or sanding.