The only way to protect your deck successfully over time is to apply a deck preservative.
How to protect deck floor.
A drywall saw works great for this.
Take a few minutes occasionally to pull out the leaves twigs and other debris that gathers between deck boards especially where the decking crosses joists.
These absorb moisture and promote mildew.
There are sealers stains and paints on the market especially designed for deck use.
Check the forecast for a clear two day period with moderate temps between 50 and 90 degrees.
Aesthetically they look very different but they protect wood and composite decks from moisture damage fungus growth and ultraviolet light.
Another option is to install a moisture barrier over the deck floor.
It s a good maintenance practice.
A deck that isn t covered in unattractive scuffs or dents from the patio chairs feet is one in which you can take more pride.
Sand the deck to remove any fuzzy grain raised by the washing.
Standing water will almost certainly damage horizontal plywood exposed to rain even if you protect it with deck paint or better yet an elastomeric coating.
If you have no alternative to.
If you butt the decking boards together to give the deck the appearance of a floor provide a tar paper moisture barrier between the decking boards and the joists.
Using an oil based wood preservative with ultraviolet inhibitors keeps your deck surfaces looking newer longer.
Two alternatives are available in lieu of installing an under deck system.
If you re about to resort to cutting x shaped slits in tennis balls to shove over the feet hold off at least until you ve checked out a couple of more practical less silly looking options.
Or install a waterproof flooring material such as flooring tiles.
You can install a roof to the top of your patio area.
The best deck sealers protect wood decking from damage while still allowing the beauty of the wood s natural grain and color to show through.
That s why sealer as opposed to deck stain is the.
Use 80 grit sandpaper and thoroughly sweep or vacuum the decking when you re done.
How to preserve your deck by james carey morris carey one of the best ways to protect your outdoor wood surfaces is to use a high quality oil based wood preservative.