Deck maintenance: keeping your deck looking its best

A timber deck is exposed to sun, rain and foot traffic every day. With some simple maintenance it will stay beautiful and sound for many years.

Keep it clean

Sweep regularly so leaves and dirt don't sit between the boards and hold moisture. A couple of times a year, wash the deck with a deck cleaner and a stiff broom. Avoid high-pressure cleaning up close, as it can damage the surface of the timber.

Re-oil or re-coat

Most timber decks need a fresh coat of oil or stain about once a year, sometimes more on decks in full sun. A simple test: sprinkle some water on the boards. If it beads, you're fine. If it soaks straight in, it's time to re-coat.

Check the details

• Look for raised screws or nails and fix them before they catch a foot

• Check that stairs and balustrades are solid

• Keep garden beds and soil away from the timber

• Make sure water drains away and doesn't pool underneath

Know when to call someone

Soft or spongy boards, rot around posts, or a deck that feels bouncy are signs to get it looked at. Catching problems early is much cheaper than replacing a whole deck.