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Generally, three factors will influence the length of your deck’s life. Harsh weather, humid conditions, and poor maintenance will affect your deck’s appearance and safety. It’s different for wood decks versus composite decks, like Trex. Composite decks are more sustainable, can withstand a much wider temperature range, and don’t need to be painted or sealed like wood decks.  The good news is there are many things homeowners can do that will help keep their decks looking beautiful, stay in top shape, and aid them in lasting a long time. With a little routine maintenance and some cleaning, both composite and wood decks will be strong and durable. Wood Decks – Maintenance and Cleaning Care  The majority of wood decks are made from pressure-treated pine. A few other kinds of wood, such as Brazilian ipê, bamboo, or cedar, are a little more environmentally conscious. However, all wooden decks need care. They should be cleaned regularly, stained or painted, and sealed. These extra steps will help protect your deck against high and low temperatures. Also, they will make the wood resistant to humidity. Decking boards will warp less, and the wood will stay in optimal condition. The underside of the deck, also known as the substructure, needs to be inspected seasonally. Look for wet spots, mildew, darker areas, and don’t forget insects. The wet spots, which can lead to mildew or mold, could also rot. This will have long-term consequences on the decking support system. Check your deck fasteners, too. Make sure there are no deck screws loose or any that are missing.  After cleaning your deck, let it dry completely. Then, stain or seal it. You may also opt to paint it. If so, choose a high-quality paint. Paint will also shield the wood boards from UV (ultraviolet) rays. Composite Decks – Maintenance and Cleaning Care  Composite decks are made from recycled plastic and wood filler. Companies such as Trex have been constantly improving their decking material. Newer iterations of composite boards are even more sustainable and the most durable to date! Trex Enhance and Trex Transcend do not need to be painted or sealed.  Keep your composite deck clean; check the surface boards, railings, fasteners, and stairs (if you have any). Just by performing this every six months, your deck will stay in good repair for quite a while. Sustaining the Substructure  Whether you have wooden or composite decking, your substructure or deck’s support system will be made of wood. Most of the time, it is pressure-treated pine. This area is more apt to retain moisture since water will drip off the surface onto the boards below.  Joists and beams are the boards underneath the deck. They need to be kept as dry as possible. Using joist tape, like Trex Protect, will help ensure your boards aren’t subjected to water damage. This can lead to serious issues like wood rot and decay, ultimately weakening the deck. Trex Protect is a butyl tape that adheres securely over the top of the joist and makes a firm seal over the deck fasteners.  Trex Protect joist tape has a 25-year warranty and is available in three widths for ease of installation. It is also a breeze to install. It sticks easily to the joist board and has a non-skid surface.  Ledger Boards Another feature of the deck’s support structure is the ledger board. The ledger board is the horizontal piece of plank wood that attaches the deck to the house (or structure) that the deck flanks. Ledger boards support part of a deck’s weight. Keeping ledger boards in reliable shape is essential. Moisture can result in mold, which can then become rot. Trex Seal is a butyl tape explicitly made for ledger protection.  For the most part, if you have a professional deck builder with a reputable company or if you are an avid DIY-er, you will get a solid install with the ledger board. This is crucial as it is one of the main points bracing the deck. If moisture, wet leaves, or debris happens to get trapped between the siding and the ledger board, it will need to be remedied promptly.  Seal the Deal (or Deck)  Speaking of sealing, while using a sealant on composite decking is unnecessary, sealing wood is recommended, especially if you live in a harsh or wet climate. Sealing wood will do two things: it will stand up to very chilly or scorching temperatures and give the deck a barrier from moisture. Sealants don’t usually have UV protection, as most sealants are clear. If possible, finding an all-in-one seal and stain product is a wise idea. A Few Final Thoughts Once you build your deck, you can look forward to many years of enjoyment. Protect your composite deck by being vigilant about the substructure, keeping it clean, and ensuring it’s in good condition. Have a wooden deck? Do the same things as you would with a composite deck, but also take the time to either stain, seal, or paint your deck.  Safeguard your fasteners to keep the deck’s underside sturdy. Make sure they’re not loose or corroded, and check around for any potential moist areas. Use butyl joist tape to control any damage from water seepage. Don’t forget to watch for pests, like termites or wasps. Doing this will allow you more time on your deck so you can take in nature and relax in the sun.

With deck maintenance, a lot goes into the seemingly simple task of taking care of your deck. Simply cleaning it is not enough, as a deck requires more than just the occasional sweep to keep it in top shape. Cleaning and maintaining your deck includes annual inspections, repairs, stains, sealing, and more. Below are common tips, tools, tricks, and practices to care for and maintain your deck. Know The Deck  First, to take care of your deck, you should know a thing or two about how it was built and the proper tools needed to take care of it. A deck is made from various materials, including concrete, wood, composite, stone, asphalt, etc. To maintain a deck, you need to know the materials used to construct it. Most homeowners either have a wood or composite deck, and there are some similarities and differences when maintaining them.  Keep this in mind when reading more on the basics of deck maintenance.  <H2> Gather the supplies  To care for your deck, you must have the proper tools. Overall, it’s good to have these few items on hand:  ● Power or Pressure washer ● Stain/Sealant  ● Hose ● Broom and brush ● Paint scraper ● Deck cleaning solution (DIY or store-bought)  These are just some basics to prepare you for any minor damages or regular maintenance you conduct throughout the season. For the most part, you can interchange some items for others, like a standard hose in place of a power washer and DIY cleaning solution, compared to one bought and mixed at the store. It’s a good rule of thumb to stock up on these items and keep them stored away for a rainy day.  Conduct Annual Inspections  You need to conduct annual inspections to help keep your deck in optimal shape, healthy, and strong throughout the years. A yearly review includes a visual inspection noting anything that has deteriorated or needs repairs. The annual assessment is the best time to perform upkeep and maintenance treatment, like resealing your deck to waterproof it for the next season, enhancing the faded colors of the deck by staining it and replacing any broken or faulty deck boards. Maintaining and repairing your deck is the key step in taking care of your deck. Let’s dive into a checklist of items that may need your attention after the inspection.  Replace Faulty or Damaged Deck Boards  An integral part of caring for your deck is replacing and repairing damaged deck boards, which applies to both wood and composite decks. Not only does it keep your deck stable, but it’s necessary to maintain the structure, stability, and safety of your deck. Some loose or damaged deck boards will appear off-kilter, but for the most part, take a quick physical examination. Walk around the deck, test the boards, and take note of where and how many need to be replaced. When the time comes, use a hammer to remove the board, cut and measure the correct dimensions for the replacement, and use a power drill or screwdriver to reinstall. This can be a good project for DIY enthusiasts or a quick job for professionals.  Time for Spring Cleaning  It doesn’t have to be spring to clean, but it should happen yearly. Consistently cleaning your deck at least once a year will help it maintain its beauty while fixing minor damages. Move your furniture, sweep away dirt and debris, use a scraper to remove gunk caught between the boards, and thoroughly hose everything down. This is the perfect time to use that deck cleaning solution you made or bought to clean the deck boards.  Seal and Stain your Deck  If you have a wooden deck, sealing and staining it is critical. Decks that do not take these preventative measures are more susceptible to damage from water and inclement weather, which can erode the deck boards over time. There is a difference between sealing and staining your deck, with some deck materials needing special sealants/stains. Here are the basic steps and supplies needed to complete this mandatory maintenance.  Step 1) Prepare your Deck: This ties into the above steps of cleaning and clearing your deck but also has a timeline. It’s a good rule of thumb for new unsealed decks to allow the deck to withstand the weather for 60-90 days before sealing it. That way, you can see if it needs to be sealed or stained. Overall, wait up to 3 months before deciding if your deck needs to be sealed or stained.  Step 2) Sand down the Deck: Sanding down the deck will eliminate any grime and grit, giving the deck a smooth, clean surface for applying the product.  Step 3) Apply the Sealant/Stain: Apply the sealant or stain over the deck, using paint brushes on handrails and smaller boards for precision and paint rollers for the large deck boards. You can apply a sealant over a stain, but ensure the sealant is fully dry before applying the stain. If the stain is oil-based, use a synthetic paint brush so it doesn’t fully soak into the bristles, making it harder to apply. You will want to avoid applying the stain in direct sunlight. Apply a second coat of stain if the wood is porous. Leave the deck to dry for up to 48 hours before moving items back onto the deck.  After applying the initial sealant and stain, repeat this process every season. While it may seem tedious, you have already stocked up on the right supplies and materials, so repeating this every year will be a breeze.   If you are still on the planning phase of your decking building or deck replacement, you will enjoy reading our blog Top things to consider when choosing your deck builder.

Top Things to Consider When Choosing Your Deck Builder With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to make the right choice. In this article, we will discuss the top considerations to keep in mind when selecting a deck builder.  From evaluating their communication skills, track record, licensing and insurance, experience, and knowledge of your project, these factors will help you find a reputable and reliable deck builder who can bring your vision to life. Communication Skills Matter When hiring a deck builder, effective communication is vital. You want to ensure that you and the builder have excellent communication skills, which form the foundation of a healthy business relationship. Clear and open communication will help avoid misunderstandings and ensure everyone is on the same page. Assess their communication skills from the initial stages to avoid potential issues. Licensing and Insurance Before hiring a deck builder, ensure they possess the necessary licensing and insurance. A legitimate and professional contractor should be able to provide you with their contractor’s license and appropriate insurance coverage. If a builder hesitates or avoids showing you these documents, consider it a red flag and move on to another candidate. Hiring an unlicensed builder can lead to subpar workmanship and potential legal and financial consequences.  Additionally, insurance coverage protects you and the builder in case of any unforeseen accidents or damages during the construction process. Prioritize Experience Experience is a crucial factor when selecting a deck builder. Look for deck builders with solid field experience. While deck construction may seem straightforward, an experienced builder can anticipate potential issues, identify problems before they arise, and guide you in selecting the best materials for a long-lasting deck. If you have specific materials for your deck, consider finding a builder with direct experience working with those materials. Builders with manufacturer training and certifications can also provide peace of mind, ensuring that warranty concerns are addressed after project completion. Knowledge of Your Project In addition to experience, it’s beneficial to find a deck builder knowledgeable about the specific type of project you have in mind. If you have a clear vision of your deck design, a builder who understands your ideas can provide valuable feedback and suggest helpful additions. Their expertise can help refine your plans and create a deck that not only meets your expectations but also incorporates innovative and practical features. Check Recommendations from Decking Brand When considering a deck builder, don’t hesitate to review and/or ask for brand recommendations. The biggest decking brands, like Trex, Timbertech, Newtechwoord and Millboard sell decking boards but they don’t have the service of deckin installation. For this reason, each brand has their preferred installers, so you can check on their website or contact them, and ask for their comments and reference about a deck builder. GJR Decking is the preferred installer for all the big deck brands, as you can check in our page materials pages. Design Capabilities If you have a specific design in mind for your deck, it’s essential to find a builder who can bring your vision to life. A builder with solid design capabilities can work with you to translate your ideas into a functional and aesthetically pleasing deck. They can offer suggestions and enhancements that you may not have considered, ensuring that your deck meets both your practical needs and desired style. Quality of Materials Ask potential deck builders about the materials they use in their projects. A reputable builder will prioritize using high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting. They should be knowledgeable about different types of wood, composite materials, and other options available in the market. Discuss your preferences and budget with the builder to find the best materials that suit your needs and ensure the longevity of your deck. Timelines and Project Management Discuss the project timeline with the deck builder to ensure it meets your expectations. A reliable builder will provide a realistic estimate of the time required for completion. Clear communication regarding project milestones and deadlines is crucial to avoid delays and ensure a smooth construction process. Additionally, inquire about their project management approach to understand how they coordinate subcontractors, handle unforeseen issues, and maintain progress throughout the project. Warranty Ask about the warranty provided by the deck builder for their workmanship and materials. A reputable builder will stand behind their work and offer a warranty that covers any potential defects or issues. Understanding the warranty terms and conditions will give you peace of mind and protection if problems arise after completing the project. Also, you should ask about their after-sales service, as it demonstrates their commitment to customer satisfaction and their willingness to address any concerns that may arise. Ask For Further Information on Your Quotes Understand your quote details, what is included, and what is not included. Make sure you ask for design details, project information and everything that it is involved in your project. If you receive quotes from different companies, you have to understand the differences and compare apples with apples. In the industry of deck building, like any other trade industry, there are ways to cut expenses. Therefore choosing the cheapest quote may cause you future headaches and regrets.   Be cautious of extremely low quotes, as they may indicate low-quality craftsmanship or the use of inferior materials, besides the deck material that you will choose. Consider the reputation, experience, and expertise of each builder in addition to the price when making your final decision. Conclusion Selecting the right deck installer for your project requires careful consideration. By setting a budget, evaluating communication skills, track record, licensing and insurance, experience, knowledge, and design capabilities, you can find a reputable builder who can bring your deck vision to life. Take the time to research and gather references, review portfolios, and request quotes to make an informed decision. With the right deck builder, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that you will enjoy for years.