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Apply a wood stain or sealant to properly maintain a wood deck railing and keep it looking new. Sealants protect wood from moisture and weathering. Regularly inspect the railing for loose screws, damaged balusters, and other signs of wear to make timely repairs. Routinely clean the railing using mild soap, water, and a soft bristle brush.

You don’t necessarily have to remove all the old paint before repainting your deck, but it’s best to remove as much as possible to ensure a smooth and long-lasting finish. Prioritize scraping off loose, peeling, or flaking paint, and sand down rough areas to create a smooth surface for the new paint to bond with.

The best paint for an older deck depends on the material and whether or not your deck already has a coat of paint. Generally, if your deck already has paint on it, you should choose the same type of paint when repainting the deck. For example, if an old deck has oil-based paint on it, stick with oil; if your deck has water-based paint, choose water-based paint. 

A wood deck requires annual cleaning and regular inspections for loose or broken boards, nails, and screws. It should be refinished by applying a stain or sealer every two to three years to protect the wood from water damage, rot, mildew, and sun fading. The exact frequency can depend on the climate and the deck's exposure to sun and moisture. If your deck is painted, it will need repainting approximately every 10 years. Signs that your deck needs refinishing include faded, splintering, or warping boards.