Liberty Deck Stain and Wash

03/22/2023

**FREE NADRA Deck Inspection Checklist**
NADRA -Otherwise known as the North American Deck & Railing Association , is the authority in deck building and maintenance for the U.S. They continually stand at the forefront of the latest deck regulations, deck safety and deck competancy requirements for contractors that understand the importance of staying up to date with deck codes.

Here is their latest deck inspection checklist, dont be afraid to go over it as best you can. These checklists save lives and money too. Because in the end, its about making sure your deck is safe for your family and friends at all times.

03/21/2023

https://todayshomeowner.com/decking/guides/deck-stain/

A deck is one of the most popular and sought-after additions to the exterior of a home. It increases the amount of living space on your property and gives

03/21/2023

Early on our commitment to excellence and refusing to accept anything less than 100% satisfaction from our customers, regardless of conditions, experience, obstacles, daylight or lack there of, gained us a reputation as a company that always put our customers above everything else.

So I couldn't understand why we virtually NEVER received call backs and referrals.

You see, what we did made customers uncomfortable. They would be eating dinner, enjoying the family, while we were running around their yard , with flashlights and paint brushes, completely disturbing there down time. Many times we were asked to go home, complaints were levied against us and one time the St. Charles police were called on us because we were working on the roof of Cave Spring Lanes at 2 am ( we mustve been breaking in) , and that would happen until we proactively called the police on ourselves until we felt that enough of the St. Charles P.D. knew who we were and what we were doing.

In retrospect, what we perceived as us giving 100% , and proving that we were tougher than everybody else, was really ignorance, arrogance and fear that if we didn't sacrifice everything, than we would never make it.

I wouldn't trade those days for anything, but boy oh boy am I happier now that I have peace and balance in my life. We don't do any of that crazy stuff anymore, and I bet our customers know more today, than at that time, that we are 100% dedicated to their satisfaction. And they probably know be of like us these days.

03/20/2023

The Best Deck Stains Tested in 2023

Deck stains can restore a deck and protect its wood, but choosing the right one can be confusing. I performed hands-on testing on several top deck stain products. Find out how they fared.

By Glenda Taylor
Updated May 24, 2022 9:46 AM

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

• BEST FOR OLD DECKS



Thompson’s WaterSeal Penetrating Timber Oil



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• BEST OVERALL

• Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Wood Sealer



SEE IT

• BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK

• SaverSystems #1 Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Stain



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• BEST FOR PRESSURE-TREATED

• Defy Extreme Semi-Transparent Wood Stain



SEE IT

• BEST WATER PROTECTION

• Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer



SEE IT

• BEST SEMI-SOLID

• Cabot Semi-Solid Deck & Siding Stain



SEE IT

• BEST FOR NEW DECKS

• Ready Seal Wood Stain and Sealer



SEE IT

• BEST FOR OLD DECKS

• Thompson’s WaterSeal Penetrating Timber Oil



SEE IT

• BEST OVERALL

• Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Wood Sealer



SEE IT

• BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK

• SaverSystems #1 Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Stain



SEE IT

• BEST FOR PRESSURE-TREATED

• Defy Extreme Semi-Transparent Wood Stain



SEE IT

• BEST WATER PROTECTION

• Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer



SEE IT

• BEST SEMI-SOLID

• Cabot Semi-Solid Deck & Siding Stain



SEE IT

• BEST FOR NEW DECKS

• Ready Seal Wood Stain and Sealer



SEE IT

• BEST FOR OLD DECKS

• Thompson’s WaterSeal Penetrating Timber Oil



SEE IT

Harsh UV rays, battering rain, and temperature extremes can take a toll on a wood deck, leaving it faded and dull. Staining a deck with a quality product can help revive its appearance while adding a measure of protection against the elements. What makes one deck stain superior to another? That’s what I wanted to know, so I tested several of the top products on actual decking boards.

I discovered there’s more to wood deck stain products than I imagined. Some offer just a hint of color, while others virtually obscure the wood grain. Others offer mildew or UV protection and are less likely to fade over time, while some emit toxic fumes during application.

Keep reading to learn about the different types and what to look for when choosing the best deck stain for your exterior wood structure. Then, check out the following products, which all earned a spot in this lineup by performing well in the tests.

• BEST OVERALL: Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Wood Sealer

• BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: SaverSystems #1 Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Stain

• BEST FOR PRESSURE-TREATED: Defy Extreme Semi-Transparent Wood Stain

• BEST WATER PROTECTION: Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer

• BEST SEMI-SOLID: Cabot Semi-Solid Deck & Siding Stain

• BEST FOR NEW DECKS: Ready Seal Wood Stain and Sealer

• BEST FOR OLD DECKS: Thompson’s WaterSeal Penetrating Timber Oil

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Photo: Glenda Taylor

Before You Buy Deck Stain

There’s a fine line between painting vs. staining a deck. The two products—paint and stain—are comparable and contain many of the same ingredients. Stain is transparent and should still show the wood grain; however, paint covers and completely obscures the wood.

Both products help preserve wood by repelling water and, depending on the brand, often include UV blockers and mildewcide to prevent mold and mildew growth.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Deck Stain

Choosing a wood deck stain is about more than just picking a color and brushing the product on the decking. First consider the type and age of the deck wood and whether it’s been previously stained or painted. In addition to updating the appearance, the best deck stain often provides a measure of protection against foot traffic and the elements.

Base

Deck stains come in two main types: oil based (alkyd) and water based. Both stains are applied in a similar manner and are available in a range of attractive wood-tone shades, including colors that mimic redwood, cedar, and mahogany. Still, while similar, each type has some specific benefits and considerations.

• Oil-based deck stains, which have been around for decades, do an excellent job of protecting exterior wood. Oil-based stains:

• Naturally repel water and reduce the risk of mold growth.

• Pe*****te the wood grain.

• Condition wood to help prevent warping and cracking.

• Can take up to 48 hours to dry after application.

• Cost less than most acrylic-based stains.

• Usually require strong-smelling solvent, such as paint thinner, to clean brushes and paint sprayers after use.

• Moreover, oil-based stains are flammable when wet. Both the liquid and fumes can ignite, so refrain from smoking and stay away from an open flame when applying the stain. Once dry, oil-based stains no longer pose a fire hazard.

• Water-based stains are relatively new but becoming increasingly popular. These stains use water as their base. Water-based stains:

• Clean up easily with soap and water

• Dry quickly, often within 2 to 3 hours
Sit on top of the wood instead of penetrating the grain

• Usually cost more than oil-based stains

• Register lower in volatile organic chemicals (VOCs), so they are more environmentally friendly and create fewer fumes than oil-based deck stains

Opacity

The opacity of wood stains—their degree of transparency or opaqueness—determines the finished look and affects how well the product can protect the deck. Deck stain is available in four opacities:

• Toner: This stain is closest to a clear sealer. It contains just a hint of color and imparts only a slight hue to the wood that won’t change the deck’s overall look. For the best protection, toner must be reapplied every year.

• Semi-transparent: As the most popular opacity level, semi-transparent stains add noticeable color to the deck, but the wood grain still shows. They offer some deck sealer protection, but plan to recoat every 2 to 3 years.

• Semi-opaque: Also called “semi-solid,” this deck stain contains enough pigment to obscure most of the wood grain while imparting rich color. Users must recoat every 3 to 4 years.

• Opaque: Sometimes called “solid deck stain,” this product contains the highest percentage of pigment and can protect wood the longest, requiring a recoat every 4 to 5 years. Opaque stain, also the densest, completely hides the wood grain. It offers the most coverage short of applying a deck paint.

Wood Type

Wood varies by species, and different types of wood are better suited to weathering the elements. Most wood surfaces still need some kind of protection and may, at some point, benefit from a deck stain that refreshes color. When constructing exterior decks, contractors generally use four main types of wood:

• Redwood: Perhaps the top wood species for high-end decks, redwood naturally resists insects, moisture damage, and decay, but it’s expensive. Considered a softwood, redwood contains natural oils and tannins that give it a warm reddish hue. To retain its natural color, apply a clear penetrating sealer rather than a wood stain once a year. Older redwood decks may benefit from a toner stain or stain/sealer combo to refresh the wood’s color.

• Cedar: Also a softwood that’s naturally resistant to decay, rot, and insect damage, cedar is an optimal wood for decks. However, it’s also pricey. When new and in good shape, cedar doesn’t require a stain, because it would alter its natural beauty. However, cedar benefits from an annual application of a clear, penetrating sealer. Older cedar decks that have weathered to a silvery gray hue can be enjoyed as they are, or apply a tinted sealer to help restore the deck’s youthful appearance.

• Teak: The natural oils in teak protect it from fungus, decay, and water damage for years, so it requires no stain or sealer to retain its appearance. Unlike redwood and cedar, teak is a hardwood that can last 50 years or more outdoors. It weathers to an attractive silvery gray over time and can be refreshed by a light sanding to remove the surface grain. Applying a wood stain is usually not necessary.

• Treated: Treated wood costs a fraction of the price of redwood, cedar, or teak, making it the wood of choice for most decks. When infused with alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ), treated wood, usually yellow pine or Douglas fir, resists rotting and weathering. However, it does take up to 6 months before ACQ effectively evaporates from the wood. For best results when staining a treated deck, wait 6 months after installation before applying stain. Treated wood decking is also a candidate for exterior paint.

Existing Coating

When the deck’s color starts to fade, reapply the stain to maintain and protect it. If the deck has previously been treated with a penetrating stain, this is usually a straightforward process. For a stain that coats only the surface, as do many acrylic-based wood stains, remove the existing coat before applying a new stain product. Removal involves sanding the surface of the deck to remove the old coating.

When applying stain over a previously stained deck, the general rule is to go with a similar or darker shade instead of a lighter hue. An existing dark color can overpower the tone of a lighter stain. If a lighter color is the goal, first sand off the existing darker stain. Alternatively, some manufacturers make a deck-bleaching product that lightens and brightens old stain to accommodate a lighter tint.

Added Protection

All wood stains (both oil-based and water-based formulas) offer a measure of water resistance by preventing rain from saturating the wood. Water-saturated wood can lead to swelling, warping, and rot. The best deck stain also protects against UV damage, which can fade the wood’s surface and increase the risk of cracks and splintering.

Some of the best deck stains contain mildewcide to prevent the growth of whitish, powdery mildew and splotchy black mold that can lead to wood rot. These additional ingredients typically add to the price, but the cost is worth it. Look for the terms “UV protection” and “mildew protection” on the label to ensure the product can protect the deck from anything Mother Nature delivers.

Application

Most deck stains can be applied with a roller, brush, or sprayer. For the best results, prep the deck by cleaning it and making any necessary repairs before application.

Also, make sure the wood is completely dry and the temperature is mild. Deck stain of any type does not dry well in cold temperatures or humid conditions. Choose a day when the temperature is between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit with no wind or rain in the forecast.

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Photo: Glenda Taylor

Our Top Picks

As part of my testing, I looked for stains that impart a natural-looking tone that enhance the deck’s look while also protecting the wood. The color tones could be light or dark, as long as they looked like natural wood. I also looked for products that were easy to apply and provided uniform coverage.

While choosing a deck color is a matter of preference, the product should go on uniformly and leave the deck looking fresh, natural, and new. These deck stain products differ in type and hue, but each is well suited for staining various kinds of wood decking.

BEST OVERALL

1

Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Wood Sealer

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Photo: https://bit.ly/3lrEt7g

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I tested Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Waterproofing Stain in maple brown by brushing it on a test board cut from a piece of standard decking. (Since I tested this product, Thompson’s WaterSeal has updated the look of the bottle and the name of the product and stain, though the formula is the same. It’s now known as Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Wood Sealer in Desert Tan.) The stain didn’t add much color; instead, it simply helped balance the dark and light tones so they looked more uniform with less contrast.

The stain was easy to apply with a brush, but it’s on the runny side. If I had to stain an entire deck, I’d probably use an airless spray rig to apply it.

Although this stain also contains a sealer, it didn’t create a noticeable film on the board’s surface; in fact, it left no sheen at all. The most significant benefit I could see was that this transparent stain would create a more uniform look on a deck if some boards were slightly lighter or darker—it would even out the tones—but not much more.

After the stain dried completely (24 hours), I set the test board outdoors to expose it to the sun and the elements for 3 weeks. After its time outdoors, I tested the board for moisture resistance by spraying it with water. The water beaded up and ran off, and the color still looked as good as it did when I first applied the product. I recommend this stain for those looking to protect a deck without noticeably changing its look.

Product Specs

• Base type: Water based

• Opacity: Transparent

• Wood compatibility: Softwoods (pressure-treated pine, cedar, fir, and redwood)

Pros

• Slight color tint

• Wood sealer included

• Fade resistant

Cons

• Slightly watery; messy to apply with a brush

Get Thompson’s waterproofing deck stain at Ace Hardware or Lowe’s.

BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK

2

SaverSystems #1 Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Stain

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Photo: https://amzn.to/2IYv82x

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Don’t spend a lot on a deck stain. You can give any wood deck an updated look with SaverSystems #1 Deck Premium Wood Stain, which is available in a handful of rich, semi-transparent stains. This stain-and-sealant combo protects wood from fading and graying while imparting a natural wood tone. It can give an old, weathered deck a fresh new look while providing moisture-resistant qualities.

I tested #1 Deck in an attractive light walnut tone, and I applied it to a decking board with a brush. It went on smoothly and uniformly, bringing out a rich tone in the wood. The manufacturer suggested applying two coats, so I did. The second coat deepened the color even more.

After 24 hours, I set the test board outdoors and left it there for 3 weeks. At the end of that time, I sprayed water on the board to see whether it would repel water. It did, and the water beaded up and ran off. The color was still deep and rich.

The product is suitable for use on all softwoods, but the manufacturer suggests letting high-oil softwoods, such as redwood or cedar, age a minimum of 1 year before applying #1 Deck. This gives the natural oils a chance to dissipate, so they don’t interfere with stain absorption.

Product Specs

• Base type: Water based

• Opacity: Semi-transparent stain

• Wood compatibility: Softwoods

Pros

• Both stain and sealer

• Low-VOC formula

• Comes in multiple wood tones

• Can be applied on damp wood

Cons

• Color might be less uniform on hardwoods such as fir

Get SaverSystems deck stain on Amazon or Walmart.

BEST FOR PRESSURE-TREATED

3

Defy Extreme Semi-Transparent Wood Stain

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Photo: https://amzn.to/2IYv82x

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A pressure-treated wood deck can look worn or exhibit a slightly green tinge, but Defy Extreme Wood Stain can change that. This semi-transparent stain is available in a selection of realistic-looking wood tones that impart rich, uniform color while still allowing the wood’s natural grain to show. The new tone can counteract the greenish hue that often lingers on pressure-treated lumber.

I chose a natural cedar tone and applied it with a brush. It went on smoothly and penetrated quickly, and the product was wonderfully free of fumes. The warm golden tone neutralized the slightly green hue on the test board. In 24 hours, the board was fully dry and ready to go outdoors to weather the elements.

The product contains ingredients that block harmful UV rays to keep the stain from fading, so I wasn’t surprised to find the color looking just as fresh after its time in the sun as when I applied it. The water beaded up and ran off, so it also passed the water-resistance test.

However, the manufacturer does not recommend applying this stain to newly built decks if they’re made from pressure-treated wood. Instead, they recommend waiting 6 months to allow the chemicals in the wood to dissipate so they don’t interfere with the uniform absorption of the stain.

Product Specs

• Base type: Water based

• Opacity: Semi-transparent stain

• Wood compatibility: Most common exterior wood types

Pros

• Comes in multiple finishes

• Low-VOC formula

• Lasts 1 year to 2 years longer than similar stains

• Large quantity

Cons

• Allow 6 months before applying to pressure-treated wood

Get Defy deck stain on Amazon or at Walmart.

BEST WATER PROTECTION

4

Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer

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Photo: https://amzn.to/2IYv82x

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The word “marine” in the title gives this stain/sealer combo away—it offers a high level of protection for decks that are regularly exposed to humidity and moisture. It’s even designed to prevent water damage in areas near saltwater.

When I opened the can, the first thing I noticed was the lack of toxic fumes. After testing a couple of other stains with fumes strong enough to give me a headache, this was a nice feature. I applied the stain/sealer product with a brush, and it barely changed the look of the wood. I’d selected “Natural” as the tone, and while it looked yellow in the can, the color didn’t transfer to my test board. I could barely tell any difference.

After allowing the board to dry for 24 hours, I put it outdoors to weather the elements. After 3 weeks, after testing the board for water resistance, it passed with flying colors—the water beaded up and ran off. I could see just a bit of a color difference where I’d applied the stain, but not much.

For someone who wants to retain the most natural look of their deck while adding a level of moisture protection, Seal-Once Marine is a decent option.

Product Specs

• Base type: Water based

• Opacity: Transparent stain

• Wood compatibility: Most common exterior wood types

Pros

• Suitable for wet climates

• Low-VOC formula

• Protects wood without changing its appearance

Cons

• Pressure-treated lumber must be dry before applying

Get Seal-Once deck stain at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.

BEST SEMI-SOLID

5

Cabot Semi-Solid Deck & Siding Stain

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Photo: https://amzn.to/2IYv82x

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Cabot’s Semi-Solid Stain is a worthy option for a deck with mismatched boards or one that requires a complete change of color. The high pigment level in this oil-based formula offers superior coverage paired with UV protection to camouflage imperfections.

I used a brush to apply this semi-solid deck stain, and the test board immediately took on a deep, dark tone. Unlike the other stains I tested, this semi-solid Cabot product obscured much of the wood grain. What it didn’t hide, it enhanced. I chose cordovan brown, which is a very deep shade of brown. However, the product is available in lighter wood tones.

This product is low in VOCs, so I didn’t detect any fumes. The color is so rich—a single coat of this stain is all that’s necessary to refresh a deck that needs a pick-me-up. After the test board remained outdoors for 3 weeks, the tone was just as rich and dark as ever, and it repelled water well. This stain is well suited for updating a deck with boards that don’t match, since it can cover much of the wood grain and add a uniform color.

Product Specs

• Base type: Oil based

• Opacity: Semi-opaque/semi-solid deck stain

• Wood compatibility: Most common exterior wood types

Pros

• Suitable for heavy-duty restaining

• Fade- and corrosion-resistant formula

• Comes in multiple finishes

• Single-coat application

Cons

• Obscures much of the wood grain

Get Cabot deck stain at Amazon or Walmart.

BEST FOR NEW DECKS

6

Ready Seal Wood Stain and Sealer

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Photo: https://amzn.to/2IYv82x

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Protect a new deck from the get-go with Ready Seal Wood Stain and Sealer. Its efficient two-in-one application is a time-saver, and the product comes in a selection of rich, wood-toned colors. This oil-based, semi-transparent stain penetrates the wood for deep protection yet allows the wood grain to show. It contains UV blockers to prevent fading and resists mold and mildew growth.

I selected a natural cedar color to test Ready Seal, and it went on smoothly with a brush. It added a rich golden hue to the wood and a slight sheen. As an oil-based product, it did emit fumes, so I had to open a window for ventilation. If applying it outdoors to an entire deck, the fumes would likely not be an issue.

I had to wait a full 72 hours for the test board to dry before putting it outdoors. After that, it spent 3 weeks in the sun and rain. When I tested the board for water resistance, it performed well; the water beaded up and ran off. The color was still deep and rich, and the surface had a bit of a pleasing sheen.

Apply this penetrating stain/sealer combo by brush, roller, or sprayer. However, because the product is oil based, cleanup of tools requires paint thinner or another solvent. Ready Seal is well suited for new treated-wood decks, but users should wait 6 months after the deck’s construction to allow the treatment chemicals to evaporate.

Product Specs

• Base type: Oil based

• Opacity: Semi-transparent stain

• Wood compatibility: Most common exterior wood types

Pros

• Comes in multiple hues and finishes

• Resists UV rays, mildew, moisture, and fading

• Both stain and sealer

Cons

• May require thinner or solvent after application

• Emits fumes

• Longer dry time of 72 hours

Get Ready Seal deck stain at Amazon, Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, Lowe’s, or Walmart.

BEST FOR OLD DECKS

7

Thompson’s WaterSeal Penetrating Timber Oil

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03/15/2023

All we do is Decks! This makes us more proficient than painting companies and we can charge much less! We care about extending the longevity of your deck while maintaining it's natural beauty, while ensuring your deck is as safe as it was on day 1. Check us out and get a Free 12 point inspection with every estimate!

03/15/2023

Deck Restoration Contractor Hiring Tips

Hiring a Deck Restoration Contractor

Here at Liberty Deck Maintenance, we have worked hard to become the Internet’s number one reference for your deck stain opinions and reviews. Some people look forward to staining their decks, while others choose to hire a professional who knows how to do it best. In this updated article, we give you some tips for hiring the right person for the job.

Hiring Tips for a Deck Restoration Contractor

When you have come to the conclusion that deck maintenance is not for you or that bringing a deck back to life is too much work, you can always hire a contractor. Hiring a deck restoration contractor does not have to be difficult but you certainly want to do some research prior to making a decision.

Painters vs. Deck Restoration Professionals

Do not hire a painter to restore your deck unless he has extensive knowledge on the subject. We have found that many painters do not have the experience or know-how of the proper preparation and application of a wood stain. Best to hire a professional who specializes in exterior wood deck restoration.

Deck Restoration Costs

The most common key factor for deck owners hiring a contractor for restoration is the price. Deck restoration pricing can vary widely. The best thing to remember is most of the time you get what you pay for. This means the cheapest contractor, especially if they are way cheaper than anyone else, may not give you the results you expect.

The price a contractor charges for deck restoration work is closely related to his expenses. If a deck cleaning contractor is very low on the price he may not be properly insured, use inferior products, or might plan to take shortcuts to turn a profit. Always be wary of a ridiculously low estimate for deck restoration.

Deck Restoration Estimates

Once a contractor gives you an estimate for restoring your deck, ask if it is final. Some contractors may try to add extra costs making your final bill larger than expected. Be sure all labor and materials are included and that you are paying for the entire project, not hourly-based work.

Research and Ask Questions

Professional deck restoration is a trade and takes the proper training and experience to get good lasting results. There are many crucial steps and methods involved in restoring a deck. Experience and knowledge in deck coatings and how to remove failing stains to the cleaning process and applying stain correctly are the keys to a successful deck restoration project.

Check to see how long the deck restoration contractor has been in business. Ask for references, testimonials, and any information or pictures of past deck restoration jobs. Ask about the equipment used, methods, and type of deck stain they suggest. You can get a pretty good feeling about someone just talking with them.

Finding the right wood deck restoration contractor can be overwhelming at first. But doing some research and asking the right questions will reduce the risk of hiring the wrong guy. It is your deck and you do not want just anyone maintaining your property and investment.

Need to Find a Contractor? Leave a Message and We Will Gladly Assist You!

Need Help Deciding on a Contractor?

Please post a small job description, the procedures, and products your contractor will be using. We will be more than happy to offer some advice to help you choose your contractor.

03/15/2023

Best Deck Stains in 2023

The best deck stains can revive a weathered deck while adding protection. See which stains came out on top in our hand-on testing.

03/15/2023

Both exterior paint and wood stain can do the job, but which offers the better finish? Get a comprehensive comparison of painting vs. staining a deck here.

03/15/2023

The Do's and Dont's of Deck Maintenance - by Bob Vila

A deck is a plein-air addition to your home. Like the space inside your residence, it needs regular cleaning and maintenance to remain habitable and safe. Decks made of composites require less maintenance than wooden decks, but there’s no such thing as a self-cleaning deck or a deck that lasts forever. By doing what’s good for the wood and avoiding what’s not, however, you’ll get more life from your outdoor living space.

DO clean the deck thoroughly once a year.
Your deck needs an annual exfoliation so protective sealers can seep deeper into the wood. When it’s dry and moderately warm—60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit—apply an appropriate deck-cleaning solution with a roller or sprayer to kill mold and bacteria. Use a utility brush to scrub the deck where it’s especially dirty and where mold or mildew might lurk. (Power washers and pressure washers are the quickest way to clear residue, but you risk gouging the wood. A garden hose outfitted with any nozzle that has a hard-stream setting will work; a “fireman” nozzle, found in auto-parts stores, delivers an intense spray without the risks associated with a pressure washer.)

Photo: istockphoto.com
DON’T go overboard with the high-powered washer.
A pressure washer is a time- and labor-saving tool, but in unsteady hands, it can make your deck look like wood-boring beetle larvae have been at work. Sweep the nozzle along the wood grain at a slight angle about 8 inches from the deck surface. Move the nozzle at all times while the trigger is engaged.

DO cover nearby shrubbery before you begin.
The chemicals in cleaners and sealers can harm or kill plants that are hit with overspray. Cover all nearby vegetation with a tarp or plastic sheet before you start, but drape it loosely to allow air circulation.

DON’T clean the deck with chlorine bleach.
Unless, of course, you don’t mind stripping the wood of its natural color and damaging its cellular structure. Oxygen bleach is an all-purpose alternative that won’t wash out colors or harm plants, but it’s still not appropriate for redwood.

DO sand your deck before sealing.
It can take up to 48 hours for the deck to fully dry. At that point, lightly sand the surface to remove splintery or fuzzy patches caused by pressure-washing the deck. A pole sander with 80-grit sandpaper will suffice; a power sander is overkill. Then seal the deck to protect from cracking, cupping, and warping. A clear sealer lasts longer; a tinted stain or sealant fades quickly with lots of foot traffic.

DON’T use paint as a sealant.
Paint looks nice when it’s first applied, but it looks downright distressed before long. If you then decide to refinish the deck with an alternative sealant, you’ll need to first remove all the paint with a stripper or sander. Finishes that leave a film rather than penetrating the wood—including varnishes and lacquer—will peel and crack. Consider synthetic sealants, as some oil-based products attract mildew and algae. Semi-transparent finishes protect the deck from sun damage and add color to the wood if that’s important to you.

DO clean the deck at routine intervals.
The room and walls of your home protect its interior from rain, snow, sun, and wind, but the uncovered deck endures whatever nature delivers.

Prevent water damage throughout the season—and during the off-season—by regularly sweeping away puddled water, leaves, branches, and other debris. Use a plastic shovel if you get more snow than a push broom can handle.

DON’T assume that pressure-treated wood is maintenance-free.
It might resist rot and insect infestation, but pressure-treated wood still needs to be cleaned and sealed to withstand water and solar damage. Use products made for pressure-treated wood.

DO be vigilant about damage.
Inspect periodically for soft or splintered spots, loose nails and deck attachments, and split or rotten planks. Promptly fix any damage that presents a health or safety hazard. Complete other repairs before your annual deep-clean.

DON’T use natural materials under deck furniture.
Protect the wood deck from scrapes inflicted by chair and table legs, but don’t use outdoor rugs made of natural fibers such as jute and bamboo: These absorb moisture and promote mildew. Rugs made of recycled plastics won’t cause these problems, and they’ll last longer.