Wooden decks are an incredible addition to your outdoor space. They’re a great place to enjoy meals and have quality time with your family and friends. Like any other part of your property, decks require proper care and maintenance, especially during seasons of extreme weather.

While wood decks installed by reliable contractors are built to withstand the elements, they are not completely safe from the damage caused by constant exposure to sunlight and rain. If you want your wooden deck to last a long time, you will benefit from learning about the effects of warm and wet weather on this part of your property and ways to protect the deck from damage.

Understand the Effects of Rain and Sun on Wooden Decks

You probably love staying on your deck to enjoy the sunshine or play in the rain. But these elements aren’t actually good for wooden decks. Constant exposure to moisture and heat will take a toll on the wood over time, resulting in costly repairs and premature replacement.

Let’s discuss the effects of rain on your wood decking first. Rain means lots of water, and water is an enemy of wood. It can cause rotting, swelling, warping, and many other damaging issues. Excessive moisture can also promote the growth of mold, mildew, and fungi, which not only affect the deck’s visual appeal but can also compromise the wood’s integrity.

Sunlight isn’t good for your deck, either. The ultraviolet (UV) rays that are harmful to our skin also damage wood. Basically, the light destroys or alters a wood component responsible for strengthening the wood’s cell walls. The wood then becomes more prone to cracking, warping, and cupping. Sunlight is also one of the factors that cause wood deck discoloration.

Top Ways to Minimize the Damaging Effects of Rain and Sun on Wooden Decks

Decks are installed outdoors, so sun and rain exposure will be inevitable. However, this does not mean there’s nothing you can do to prevent or at least minimize the damaging effects of the elements. Here are a few ways you can protect your wood deck from sun and water damage:

Seal and Stain the Deck

Seals and stains give the wood a protective barrier from moisture absorption and UV rays. It’s important to note that sealing and staining are different treatments. Sealer protects the wood from moisture damage, while the stain offers UV light protection. So if you want UV light and moisture protection for your wood deck, apply a sealer on top of the stain.

For new decks that have never been sealed or stained, it is best to wait at least 60 days after construction before applying the treatment to ensure the wood is completely dry. The wood needs to be dry before staining to prevent locking in the moisture.

After that, you have to reapply finishing every two to three years, depending on how much traffic your deck receives and the product used. Below are answers to some common questions about staining and sealing wood decks.

At What Temperature Should You Not Stain a Deck?

Avoid staining your wood deck when the temperature goes above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. At this temperature, the heat will cause the stain to dry quickly, which can result in uneven stain penetration and lap marks.

What Is the Best Weather to Stain Your Deck?

Apply stain to your wood deck when it has not rained for several days and the weather forecast says there will be at least 24 hours of dry weather. Don’t apply the stain when exposed to direct sunlight.

Cover the Deck Area

Covering the deck area will help minimize your deck’s exposure to sun and rain. Pergolas are a great option because they provide a nice aesthetic touch in addition to a shaded covering. If the deck is installed just beside your property, an awning may be a good choice. Of course, you can build or use your preferred materials as long as the structure covers your deck area. It can be an umbrella, a veranda, or even a roof.

Pergolas, awnings, and other coverings will also help keep your deck cool when it’s too hot outdoors. But if the temperature is too high and the coverings aren’t enough to keep the deck from burning your feet when you walk barefoot, you can add a few other items.

A blanket, mist fan, or a coating that lowers the temperature and reduces heat build-up on wooden surfaces are just some things you can put on your wood deck to keep it cool. Avoid using materials like rugs made of bamboo, jute, or any natural fibers because these absorb moisture and can cause mildew problems.

Plant Greenery Strategically

Plant tall trees near enough to your deck to provide shade but not too close for the branches to become a safety hazard. In addition to sun protection, greenery can make the air outdoors fresher and cleaner. It’s also a more eco-friendly way to protect the deck from sun damage. If you’re still planning to build your wood deck, consider installing it near areas that offer plenty of canopy coverage.

Learn About Signs of Moisture and Sun Damage

Like most man-made structures, decks aren’t designed to last forever. However, you can delay the need for a replacement by ensuring they’re properly taken care of. Being proactive on repair is one of the ways you do that. Check for signs of damage and perform the necessary repairs immediately to prevent any further damage to the deck.

Here are a few signs your wood deck may already need repair:

• Mold and Mildew: Look for the presence of mold or mildew on the surface of the wood. Moisture accumulation can create an environment conducive to mold growth, especially in areas with poor ventilation or excessive shade.

• Water Stains: Dark or discolored patches on the deck surface or between the boards indicate water damage. These stains can be caused by water seeping into the wood, leaving behind minerals or other residue.

• Swelling or Expansion: When wood absorbs moisture, it tends to swell or expand. If you notice any boards that have expanded and no longer fit tightly together, it may be a sign of moisture-related issues.

• Surface Cracking: Cracking is also an indicator of a moisture problem. It’s important to fix the problem immediately because cracking weakens the wood and compromises the deck’s structural integrity. The cracks can also create splinters, which can be dangerous.

Keep It Clean

Keeping your wooden deck clean will make your outdoor space look comfortable and inviting. Sweep away water puddles, leaves, and dirt. Remove debris stuck in spaces between wood boards, and occasionally deep clean the deck. Consider the deck as much a part of your home as your indoor spaces.

Your deck will also need yearly exfoliation so protective stains and sealers can penetrate the wood better. Use deck-cleaning solutions, not chlorine, to kill mold and bacteria and a utility brush to scrub every nook and cranny of the deck. You can also use a pressure washer, but you need to be skilled because using the wrong pressure can lead to wood damage.

Reliable Deck Protection From the Pros

By following these tips for deck maintenance, you can protect your outdoor space from sun and rain damage. And if you want to ensure quality results, it’s always best to leave this task to professionals, especially if you don’t have experience doing it.

By hiring pros to stain your deck, you can be sure you’ll get lasting results. The experts at Anderson Painting can accomplish all this by using quality stains and the proper technique. Whether it’s maintenance, repairs, or replacements you need, our team can make recommendations and deliver high-quality work.

For more on wood deck staining, sealing, or any other home improvement projects, don’t hesitate to contact Anderson Painting.