Deck Maintenance Checklists for Every Season

Staying on top of deck maintenance keeps the outdoor fixture safe and functional while protecting your investment. Check out our seasonal deck maintenance checklists so you don't miss essential tasks.

Supplies 

Deck maintenance doesn't require too many supplies, which is good news for the bank account. Here's what you need to keep the deck clean and well-maintained for years.

• Cleaning agents 

• Broom

• Mop 

• Microfiber cloths 

• Screwdriver 

• Sealant for wood decks

• Paint for wood decks 

• Painter's tape 

• Sandpaper

• Tarps 

• Putty knife 

General Tips 

These simple things will help protect your deck from wear and damage:

• Re-arrange outdoor furniture and plants every few months

• Place protective pads under heavy furniture 

• Use plastic or synthetic rugs and mats

• Trim nearby bushes and trees to discourage moss, mold, and rot 

• Apply a waterproof solution with a pump sprayer 

• Seal composite decking

• Store a fire extinguisher near the grill

• Place a fire-resistant mat underneath the grill 

Spring

Download Checklist Here

When the snow melts for good, check that the season didn't do any lasting damage and prep your deck for the busy summer months. Here’s what to look for in your annual deck inspection:

• No splintering or cracked deck boards 

• No rotting and warped boards 

• No decaying joists and support boards

• No insect damage 

• No mold below the surface

• No loose or protruding screws or nails

• No rust on fasteners, nails, brackets, and screws 

• All fasteners, stairs, and railings are secure 

• No holes in the flashing 

• Replace loose or rusty screws 

• Tighten or replace any loose fasteners 

• Fill holes with exterior wood filler 

• Replace damaged boards

• Secure warping boards with new nails

• Replace flashing if necessary

• Consider a professional inspection

• Hire a local deck pro for serious repairs 

Summer

The summer is likely when your deck gets the most use, especially if you regularly host outdoor gatherings. Here's what to do at the start of those fun summer months:

• Spot clean weekly

• Remove and clean furniture/fixtures

• Sweep away debris

• Hand-scrub softwood decks 

• Power wash hardwood decks

• Remove debris from between boards with a putty knife

• Rinse the deck with a garden hose 

• Clear away pooling water 

Fall

Since you’ll want to stain or paint when the weather is between 50 and 90 degrees, many homeowners wait until fall to renovate their decks. You’ll want to sand the deck before finishing. We recommend 60- or 80-grit sandpaper on the deck boards and 80- or 100-grit on the handrails.

• Sand your wood deck every two years 

• Vacuum the deck after sanding 

• Stain the deck every two to three years 

• Paint the deck every two to three years

• Make sure the stain has a built-in sealant 

Winter

Winter is all about preparation. Here’s how you can ensure the deck gets through those cold months: 

• Store deck furniture indoors or under a tarp 

• Clear out debris and dirt 

• Apply a waterproof sealant

• Apply a non-toxic, anti-slip deck treatment

• Remove snow regularly

• Use ice melt regularly

• Remove ice from steps and railings 

• Install removable anti-slip mats or rubberized outdoor rugs 

How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Deck?

A deck requires repairs and official maintenance visits every now and again to keep things in good working order. Repairing a deck costs $865 to $3,500, depending on the underlying issue. Fixing loose stairs falls on the lower end of that price range, at $25 to $50 per stair. Remediating mold costs up to $500, and pest control costs up to $600. No matter the problem, talk to your local deck repair pro to discuss options.