5 Deck Maintenance Tips for the End of Summer

As the summer sun begins to fade and cooler temperatures creep in, your deck probably needs some TLC. After months of BBQs, family gatherings, and harsh UV rays, decks take a beating. Giving it a little end-of-season maintenance now can go a long way in preserving its look, safety, and performance through fall and winter.

Whether you’re working with traditional wood or low-maintenance composite materials like Trex®, these deck maintenance tips will help you clean, repair, and protect your outdoor space, so it’s ready for whatever Michigan weather throws its way.

5 End-of-Summer Deck Maintenance Tips Every Homeowner Should Follow

These five essential deck maintenance tips will help you protect your outdoor space and get ahead of winter damage.

#1. Clear and Store Outdoor Furniture & Accessories

Let’s start by clearing off your deck. 

Remove any furniture, outdoor rugs, cushions, lighting, planters, or decorative items that won’t withstand colder weather. 

This prevents wind, snow, and moisture damage, and gives you a clean slate to inspect and properly maintain your deck surface.

Take a few extra minutes to clean your cushions and rugs with a mild detergent. 

Let them dry completely before storing them in a shed, garage, or basement. This helps prevent mold and mildew buildup during the off-season.

Once your deck is cleared off and your belongings are stored safely, you’ll be much better positioned to tackle deeper maintenance tasks.

#2. How to Clean a Deck (Wood vs. Composite)

Dirt, pollen, and mildew can accumulate throughout the summer, and if left untreated, they can cause staining or structural issues, especially during freeze-thaw cycles in the colder months. Proper deck cleaning will help preserve its appearance and extend its lifespan.

For Wood Decks:

• Sweep away leaves, dirt, and debris.
  Mix warm water with a gentle dish soap or use a wood-specific deck cleaner for deeper grime.
• Scrub the boards with a stiff-bristle brush, working in the direction of the grain.
• Avoid using a power washer unless you’re experienced, as it can damage the wood fibers if used incorrectly.
• Rinse thoroughly and let the deck dry completely before moving to repairs or sealing.

For Composite Decks (like Trex):

• Use a soft-bristle brush and a solution of warm water and mild soap.
• Avoid harsh cleaners or abrasive tools, as these can damage the finish.
• Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose—composite decking is designed to resist moisture, so drying time is typically quicker.

Cleaning now means less work in the spring, and ensures that stain or sealant (for wood decks) adheres properly.

#3. Inspect and Tighten Nails, Screws, and Fasteners

After your deck is clean and dry, take the time to inspect it for loose or damaged fasteners. Look for popped nails, raised screws, or shifting boards, as these are common issues that can worsen over the winter due to expanding and contracting materials.

To fix these issues:

• Remove any popped nails and replace them with longer deck screws to ensure a secure hold.
  Tighten loose screws using a power drill. Be careful not to over-tighten, especially on composite decking.
• Examine the railing and stairs for any movement or instability and make repairs as needed.

Taking care of these minor issues can help prevent bigger structural problems later. Loose fasteners can lead to water intrusion and wood rot, or even become a safety hazard when hidden under snow and ice.

#4. Replace Damaged or Split Deck Boards

As you inspect your deck, watch for any boards that are split, cracked, warped, or showing signs of rot. While one small crack may not seem like a big deal, those imperfections can trap moisture, and once winter hits, freezing temperatures will cause that moisture to expand and make the damage worse.

For Wood Decks:

• Look for soft spots, splinters, or discoloration—these are often signs of rot or water damage.
• If a board is too far gone, replacing deck boards is the best option. Remove the damaged piece and install a new one using corrosion-resistant screws.
• For minor surface cracks, a high-quality wood filler can be used as a temporary fix until spring.

For Composite Decks:

• While less prone to splitting, composite decking can still be scratched or damaged by heavy impacts or improper installation.
• If necessary, individual boards can be replaced without removing the entire section.

Addressing damage now means fewer headaches—and fewer costly repairs—when warm weather returns.

#5. Restain the Deck and Apply a Protective Sealant (Wood Decks Only)

If you have a wood deck, one of the most critical fall tasks is to restain the deck and apply a water-repellent sealant. This helps shield the wood from rain, snow, and ice—all of which can accelerate wear and lead to rot or mold.

When to Restain:

• If your deck looks faded, gray, or patchy, it’s a good time to apply a fresh coat of stain.
• Choose a high-quality, weather-resistant stain that offers UV protection.

When to Seal:

• Sealant should be applied after staining (or independently if staining isn’t needed).
• Make sure the deck is completely dry and clean before sealing.
• Apply using a brush, roller, or sprayer, and allow it to cure for at least 24–48 hours before walking on it.

Skip This Step If You Have Composite:

If your deck is made from composite materials like Trex, you can skip this step. Trex decking has built-in moisture resistance and color retention, meaning you don’t have to stain or seal it—ever!

Wood vs. Composite Deck Maintenance — Which Is Easier?

Not all decks require the same level of maintenance. If you spend every fall cleaning, repairing, and staining, it might be time to consider an upgrade. Composite decking, like Trex, offers a low-maintenance alternative that performs beautifully year-round, with far less effort.

Here’s a quick comparison of maintenance requirements:

Feature	Wood Decking	Composite Decking (ex.Trex)
Cleaning	Needs scrubbing and specialized cleaners	Just soap and water
Repairs	May require replacing deck boards annually	Rarely needs replacement
Staining/Sealing	Needs regular reapplication	Not required
Winter Damage Risk	High (rot, mold, splitting)	Low (moisture-resistant)
Long-Term Durability	Varies by wood type and upkeep	Consistent performance with minimal care

Trex decking resists fading, staining, and moisture, and never needs to be stained or sealed. That means less time on seasonal upkeep and more time enjoying your outdoor space.

Prep, Protect, and Upgrade Your Deck with Help from Zeeland Lumber & Supply

Following these simple deck maintenance tips at the end of summer can save you money, protect your investment, and make spring cleanup a breeze.

If you’re ready to trade in your high-maintenance wood deck for something more durable and worry-free, Zeeland Lumber & Supply can help you make the switch to low-maintenance composite options like Trex.

Stop by one of our convenient locations or contact us online for expert advice and all the materials you need to complete your end-of-summer deck maintenance.