8 July 2024

Deck Repairs, Cleaning, and Maintenance: The Ultimate Guide for DIY Homeowners

A well-maintained deck is the heart of any outdoor living space, providing a space to relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors. However, over time, exposure to the elements can take a toll on your deck’s appearance and structural integrity. Whether your deck is made from timber, composite materials, or tiles, regular maintenance is essential to keep it looking its best and prolong its life.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about deck repair, cleaning, and maintenance. From choosing the right products to performing DIY repairs, we’ll cover all the key topics you need to address to ensure your deck stays in top condition.

Why Regular Deck Maintenance Matters

Your deck is constantly exposed to harsh weather conditions, UV rays, moisture, and foot traffic. Without regular care, your deck can suffer from:

Fading and discoloration
Splitting or warping boards
Mould, mildew, and algae growth
Rotting or rusting nails
Slippery surfaces, creating safety hazards

By performing regular maintenance, including cleaning, repairs, and sealing, you can extend your deck's lifespan and prevent costly future repairs.

Deck Repair: Common Issues and How to Fix Them

1. Fixing Cracks, Splits, or Loose Boards

One of the most common problems with timber decks is the formation of cracks or splits in the wood. These can happen due to weather changes, foot traffic, or general wear and tear.

How to fix:

Small Cracks: Fill minor cracks using a wood filler. Sand the area smooth after the filler has dried, and apply a deck sealant to protect the wood.
Loose Boards: Tighten or replace screws and nails that may have come loose over time.
Severe Damage: For large splits or rotting wood, you may need to replace the affected boards altogether.

2. Deck Sanding: Can You Sand a Deck?

Sanding your deck is a great way to remove old stain, smooth rough patches, and prepare the surface for refinishing. Sanding helps to restore the natural beauty of timber and allows new stain or paint to adhere properly.

Steps for deck sanding:

Remove any furniture and sweep away debris.
Use a belt sander or orbital sander with coarse sandpaper to strip away the old finish.
Switch to a finer grit for a smooth surface.
Clean the deck thoroughly before applying stain or sealant.

Pro tip: Be sure to check out our range of decking products, including sanding tools and deck stains.

Deck Cleaning: Methods for Timber, Composite, and Tile Decks

1. How to Clean a Wood Deck

For timber decks, cleaning is essential to remove dirt, mould, and mildew that can build up and lead to decay. Here's how to clean a wood deck effectively:

Sweep the deck: Remove all loose debris.
Apply a deck cleaner: Use a timber-specific deck cleaner to break down dirt and stains. Scrub the surface using a stiff-bristled brush.
Rinse thoroughly: Use a hose or pressure washer on a low setting to rinse off the cleaning solution.
Let it dry: Allow the deck to dry completely before sealing or staining.

Note: Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage timber. Consider a biodegradable cleaner to protect your garden and pets.

2. How to Clean Composite Decking

Composite decking requires less maintenance than timber but still needs regular cleaning to prevent staining and mould growth. Here's how to clean a composite deck:

Use a mild detergent: Apply a gentle cleaner mixed with warm water to remove dirt and stains.
Scrub lightly: Use a soft brush or sponge to clean the surface without scratching the composite material.
Rinse thoroughly: A garden hose is usually sufficient to rinse the deck.

Tip: Avoid using pressure washers on composite decks, as they can damage the surface.

3. How to Clean Outdoor Tiles

Outdoor tiles on patios or pool areas can become slippery and stained over time. Here's how to keep them looking their best:

Sweep the tiles regularly: Remove dirt and debris to prevent staining.
Apply a tile cleaner: Use a cleaner specifically designed for outdoor tiles, focusing on any grout or crevices.
Scrub and rinse: Scrub with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly with a hose.

Deck Staining and Sealing

How to Stain a Deck

Applying a deck stain not only enhances the wood’s natural beauty but also protects it from UV damage and moisture. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Prepare the deck: Clean the deck thoroughly and allow it to dry. Sand the surface if necessary.
Choose the right stain: Select a stain that matches your desired finish—whether you want a clear, semi-transparent, or opaque look.
Apply the stain: Use a brush or roller to apply an even coat. Work in small sections to ensure the stain penetrates the wood.
Let it dry: Allow the stain to dry for at least 24-48 hours before using the deck.

Looking for the right products? Explore our range of deck stains and sealants.

Deck Refurbishing: When Is It Time to Refresh?

Even with regular maintenance, all decks will eventually show signs of ageing and wear. If your deck is starting to look tired or suffer from more than minor wear and tear, it might be time to consider a full deck refurbishing.

Refurbishing your deck can give it a fresh, new look and restore its structural integrity, ensuring you can enjoy your outdoor space for many more years.

Here’s what you need to know about deck refurbishing, from identifying the right time to take action, to selecting the best materials and techniques.

Signs Your Deck Needs Refurbishing

Severe Weathering Over time, exposure to Australia’s harsh sun and fluctuating weather conditions can cause timber decking to fade, splinter, or warp. While regular sealing can slow this process, deep weathering might call for more extensive refurbishment. If the wood has greyed significantly or shows deep cracks, sanding and restaining alone may not suffice—you may need to replace some boards.
Rotting Boards or Structural Issues Water damage is one of the most serious threats to timber decks. If moisture has penetrated the wood, you might notice rotting boards, which can compromise the deck's safety. Soft spots, visible mould, or decayed wood indicate a need for immediate attention. If left unchecked, the damage can spread and cause structural failures.
Solution: Remove and replace any affected boards. In extreme cases, you might need to replace the joists or subframe as well. For help selecting new boards, explore our range of decking supplies.
Loose or Corroded Fasteners Over time, screws, nails, and bolts holding your deck together can loosen or corrode, leading to wobbling boards or unstable railings. Rusting fasteners not only look unsightly but can also contribute to structural issues. If your deck feels unstable underfoot, it’s time to take action.
Solution: Tighten or replace any loose fasteners. For corroded screws or nails, consider upgrading to stainless steel or coated fasteners that are designed to withstand moisture and prevent rusting.
Peeling or Worn Deck Finish A key sign that your deck is ready for refurbishing is a deteriorating finish. Peeling paint, flaking stain, or areas where the wood is exposed suggest that your deck is no longer protected from the elements. If left untreated, UV rays and moisture can further degrade the wood beneath.
Solution: Strip away the old stain or paint using a deck stain remover or sander, and apply a fresh coat of stain or sealant. For best results, consider a high-quality deck oil or stain designed to withstand the Australian climate.
Outdated Aesthetics Perhaps your deck is still structurally sound but simply looks outdated. If you’ve recently renovated your home or revamped your landscaping, you might want to refresh your deck’s appearance to match. Refurbishing offers a chance to change the colour, finish, or even material of your deck to better align with your overall outdoor aesthetic.

Steps to Refurbish Your Deck

Refurbishing your deck involves several key stages, from removing old finishes to replacing damaged boards and applying new protective coatings. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Inspect the Deck Structure Before beginning any refurbishing project, conduct a thorough inspection of your deck. Check for signs of rot, rusted fasteners, or structural damage. Pay special attention to the joists and beams, as these support the deck’s weight. If you discover any significant issues, consider consulting a professional to ensure the deck is safe.
Remove Old Stain or Paint The first physical step of refurbishing is removing any old stain or paint that has deteriorated. This is best done using a combination of deck sanding and chemical strippers. Sanding will help smooth the surface and remove any stubborn finishes.

For timber decks, use a belt or orbital sander to strip away old finishes. You may need to use coarse sandpaper initially and gradually move to a finer grit.
For composite decks, sanding isn’t usually required, but you may need to use a specialised cleaner to remove stains and refresh the surface.

Replace Damaged or Worn Boards If any boards are cracked, warped, or rotting, they should be replaced at this stage. Ensure the new boards are of the same material and dimensions as your existing deck for a consistent look. If you’re replacing several boards, you might consider upgrading to a more durable or lower-maintenance decking material like composite decking.

Repair the Deck Substructure (if necessary) If your deck’s subframe (the joists and beams that support the decking boards) has sustained damage from rot or moisture, now is the time to repair or replace these elements. While you may be able to replace individual boards on the surface, any substructure damage should be dealt with immediately to avoid long-term safety issues.

Stain, Seal, or Paint the Deck Once repairs are completed and the surface is smooth, it’s time to apply a protective finish. Whether you opt for staining, sealing, or painting depends on the look you’re going for and the level of protection you need.

Staining: Deck stains come in various levels of opacity, from clear to solid. Staining enhances the natural grain of the wood while offering UV protection.
Sealing: For those who prefer the natural color of their timber, a clear or tinted sealant can protect the deck without altering its appearance.
Painting: If you prefer a more opaque, vibrant look, painting your deck offers the most color options but requires more maintenance than staining.

Maintain Regularly After Refurbishment After refurbishing your deck, it’s crucial to maintain it properly to prevent future damage. Make sure to sweep the deck regularly, clean it at least once a year, and reseal or re-stain the surface every 2-3 years.

For more tips on long-term care, refer to our guide on deck maintenance.

Upgrading to Composite or Alternative Materials

If you find that your timber deck requires frequent refurbishing due to weather damage, you might want to consider upgrading to a more durable material like composite decking. Composite materials are made from a blend of wood fibres and recycled plastic, offering the appearance of natural timber with minimal maintenance.

Benefits of composite decking:

Low maintenance (no need for staining or sealing)
Resistant to rot, mould, and mildew
More eco-friendly, often made from recycled materials
Available in a variety of colours and textures

Composite decks require less upkeep and may be a great option if you want to avoid the hassle of sanding, staining, or sealing. For inspiration on outdoor upgrades, see our tips on how to design your outdoor area.

Your Materials Checklist

Fine, medium & course sandpaper
50mm galvanized deck nails, galvanized wood screws as necessary
Timber restorer (pre-stain treatment)
Selected timber finish
Filler
Clean up rags
Solvent (as necessary to clean brushes/surfaces)
Exterior water resistant wood glue

Tools for the job

Step 1: Job inspection

Firstly it is best to determine the species of timber you are working with for staining/finishing purposes and also where any timber replacement is needed. You have a wide choice of products to choose from, and in that also either water based finishes or oil based finishes. From within this selection there are basicly three types of finish you can use:

Full cover: finish A stain much like paint which is not transparent through to the grain. Easy to use, as after initial timber clean and preparation, cover is done in 2 or 3 coats. Water based and low sheen it is suitable for decking and furniture, and provides full timber protection.

Exterior stain: A see through stain which enhances the natural colour and grain of the timber. Preparation is important as this will be reflected in the completed job. It is usually an oil based product. Clean up with mineral turps.

Exterior clear: A clear oil finish which highlights the natural colour and finish of the timber. Preparation is also very important, and clean up is with mineral turps. There are also acrylic clear finishes which have water clean up, these perform very well.

Step 2: Maintenance work

Inspect the decking for signs of deterioration such as splitting or rot, loose boards and damage to other framework areas beneath the deck. Where necessary remove the offending timber and replace it with the same timber species. A common maintenance item on decking is protruding nail heads and loose boards. This is often caused by shrinkage of the framing timber over a period of time – all that is needed is to knock the nails down into the timber with your hammer and nail punch to a nominal 2-3mm below the surface (Fig. 1).

Outdoor furniture Inspect joints for rigidity and the method of joint construction. If the join is held together with screws or a bolt system then simple tightening may be all that is needed, or replacement of a screw with a longer and thicker screw. Be sure to pre-drill holes before inserting the screw to prevent splitting of the timber. Look at the end grain, particularly the bottom of the legs where moisture can cause problems. If rot has started it could be simply a matter of cutting some length off the leg to solid timber. Once this has been done you may want to cut all furniture legs so the heights are constant (Fig. 2). Where the joins are very loose and a screw is unlikely to hold them – and the end grain of the timber is sound – then some re-building may be necessary. Dismantle the furniture, clean all joining ends and sides and reassemble with the aid of 10mm dowell and water resistant wood glue (Fig. 3). Locate the dismantled members in position to each other on a flat work surface, drill a 10mm hole through one side member into the joining piece. Spread a liberal amount of glue on the join and into the drilled holes, push the dowel into the timber members, cut off to length and clamp the furniture until the glue is set.

Fig. 1

Fig. 2

Fig. 3

Step 3: Preparation

Preparation can be undertaken in several ways. Where a stained or clear finish is required one of the following steps should be undertaken. The surfaces can be sanded clean to reveal the hidden natural colour of the timber – this method is necessary where a finish has been applied previously. This is accomplished either by hand with sandpaper and a sanding block or with the aid of a sanding machine. By dampening the surface to be worked on with water prior to sanding the grain will be lifted, which will assist a smoother surface after sanding. On large deck areas the use of a drum sander will be of great assistance. Some Mitre 10 stores will have drum sanders available for hire, otherwise, they are available at most tool hire shops (Fig. 4). Any grease spots can be removed with the aid of mineral turps. On timber which is weathered which has had no added finishes to it use a proprietry outdoor timber cleaner which restores greyed timber back to its initial natural colour, and will remove mould and algae buildup. For paint or solid colour finishes on previously painted surfaces remove any loose or flaking paint using sand paper and a scraper. Where paint is holding well to the timber sanding over to break the surface for the new paint adhesion is necessary. In areas you may come upon spots that have paint and bared timber, this will show a step or ridge at the edge of the paint. Feather off this edge with sandpaper so that the defect will not show through on your finish coat of paint (Fig. 5).

Fig. 4

Fig. 5

Step 4: Applying the finish

Go shopping and familiarize yourself with the various finishes available, and also the manufacturers particular instructions for the task you are undertaking. Your local Mitre 10 store has experts on hand to assist you here. For furniture it is best to use a brush or spray gun for application. Thoroughly wipe down the furniture and remove all dust particles. Select a nice shady spot as direct sun may cause the finish to dry prematurely, especially if it is full colour. Two coats minimum are recommended, with a light sand in between coats. Sandpaper used for this finish work should be a fine grit of 180 grade, sand with the direction of the grain and be sure to have allowed enough time for the applied finish to dry between coats. Decking can be finished by using a paintbrush, roller or lambswool applicator. Prior to commencing sweep down the surface and remove all foreign particles and dust, apply the surface finish only on a still day and preferably not in the heat of the day. Ideally the weather would be relatively cool and free of harsh sun.

Step 5: Maintenance

It is a fact that any timber exposed to the elements, especially as harsh as we experience in Australia, is going to need a certain amount of upkeep to maintain colour and finish. Where clear finishes or stains have been used this could mean that each year or so, give a quick ‘dust over’ with fine sandpaper to provide a key for another coat or two of stain. Naturally remove flakey or cracked varnish and sand down in the area prior to application. Also keep all surfaces clean by washing down regularly with warm soapy water.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How often should I clean my deck?

It’s best to clean your deck every 6-12 months, depending on the climate and foot traffic.

2. Can I use a pressure washer on my deck?

Yes, but be cautious. For timber decks, use a low-pressure setting to avoid damaging the wood. Avoid using pressure washers on composite decks.

3. How often should I stain or seal my deck?

Typically, you should reapply a deck stain or sealant every 2-3 years, but this can vary based on your local climate.

4. What’s the best way to remove old stains from a deck?

Deck sanding is the most effective way to remove old stains. You can also use a deck stain remover to break down the finish before sanding.

5. Can I replace only a few boards on my deck, or do I need to rebuild the whole thing?

If the damage is localised, you can replace individual boards. However, if there’s widespread rot or structural issues, you may need to consider a larger refurbishment.

Deck repairs, cleaning, and maintenance are essential tasks for any homeowner looking to preserve the beauty and functionality of their outdoor space. By following these DIY tips and using high-quality products, you can ensure your deck remains a welcoming area for years to come.

For more decking supplies and outdoor inspiration, visit our range of decking products and explore our DIY guides for additional tips and tricks.