So, you’ve stained your deck—awesome! Whether you did it yourself or had a pro come in and work their magic, your deck is now looking as good as new. But here’s the thing: staining is just the beginning. If you want your deck to stay looking fresh and beautiful, you’ve got to give it a little TLC over time.
Don’t worry though, keeping your deck in shape is easier than you might think. With these five simple tips, your deck will stay as stunning as the day you had it stained. Let’s dive in!
1. Regular Cleaning is Key
Alright, first things first: cleaning. You’ve probably heard this a thousand times, but here’s why it’s important: dirt, leaves, and debris can cause all sorts of problems, like mold, mildew, and even a faster breakdown of your stain. If you let stuff pile up and sit there, it’ll trap moisture, and moisture is one of your deck’s worst enemies.
How often should you clean it? About every 3-4 months, especially after a good rain or a shift in the seasons. A quick sweep with a broom or soft-bristle brush is usually enough. If you’re dealing with some serious gunk, a power washer can be your best friend—just make sure you’re using the right pressure so you don’t damage the wood. Remember you can always count on MTC Exterior PRO to give you a hand when it comes to a good clean.
2. Keep Your Deck Dry
Moisture is the number one thing that can ruin your deck over time. It seeps into the wood, making it susceptible to rot, mold, and mildew. Plus, if it’s damp, the stain can fade or peel off way faster.
So, what can you do about it? Well, make sure your deck isn’t surrounded by plants or trees that trap moisture. Trim back any foliage that’s blocking airflow. That way, your deck can dry out quicker after rain or morning dew. Also, if your gutters are clogged, it’s time to clean them out. You don’t want water running down the deck from overflowing gutters.
3. Inspect Your Deck Regularly
Even though you’ve stained it, it’s still a good idea to check on it every so often. Why? Because things like peeling stain, cracks, or signs of water damage can sneak up on you if you’re not paying attention.
Take a walk around your deck every couple of months, especially after big weather changes. Look for areas where the stain might be fading or peeling. The sooner you catch an issue, the easier (and cheaper) it is to fix.
4. Reseal When Necessary
You’ll need to reseal it every 1-3 years to keep that protective layer in place.
How do you know when it’s time? Here’s a quick test: splash a little water on your deck. If it beads up, your stain is still doing its job. If it soaks in, it’s time to reseal. Trust us, resealing is way easier than letting your deck get damaged, and it’ll keep it looking fresh for much longer.
If you’re still wondering why investing in professional deck staining is the right choice for your Charlotte home, check out 5 Reasons to Invest in Professional Deck Staining for Your Charlotte Home to learn more!
5. Protect Your Deck from Furniture and Foot Traffic
Finally, take care of your deck by being mindful of how it’s used. We know it’s tempting to drag heavy furniture around, but doing so can leave permanent marks or scratches on the stain. Try to lift furniture instead of dragging it, and use furniture pads under heavy items. Plus, if you’ve got a lot of foot traffic in certain areas, consider moving things around every now and then to prevent wear patterns.
Maintain Your Deck’s Beauty Year-Round
Keeping your deck looking new after it’s stained doesn’t have to be a hassle. A little regular cleaning, moisture control, and occasional inspections will keep it looking great year-round. And if you’re ever unsure about what your deck needs, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help.
If you’re still wondering why investing in professional deck staining is the right choice for your Charlotte home, check out 5 Reasons to Invest in Professional Deck Staining for Your Charlotte Home to learn more!