A deck in Central Texas gets used most of the year, and the same sun that makes it inviting also wears it down. A little upkeep goes a long way.
In Austin and the towns around it, a deck can be the most-used room of the house from March to November. Heat, UV, summer storms and the occasional hard freeze all take a toll. Here's how to keep wood and composite decks in good shape.
Wood decks: clean, seal, repeat
UV breaks down the wood surface, turning it gray and opening small cracks that let water in. On a sunny Central Texas deck, a quality stain or sealer every one to two years keeps the wood from drying out. Clean first: gray fibers, pollen and mildew keep stain from soaking in. Use a deck cleaner and low pressure; high pressure gouges soft wood.
- Spring: clean, check for loose boards and nails, and seal if water no longer beads on the surface.
- Summer: sweep often; leaves and pots that trap moisture leave stains and rot spots.
- Fall: check railings and stairs before holiday gatherings.
- Winter: keep snow-melt salt off wood and composite if a freeze hits.
Composite decks: easier, not effortless
Composite doesn't need sealing, but it does need cleaning to prevent mildew in shaded spots, and darker colors get hot in full sun. If your deck faces west, a lighter color or a shade structure makes summer afternoons more comfortable.
Check the parts you don't see
Most dangerous deck failures start underneath: the ledger board where the deck meets the house, joist ends and post bases. Once a year, look under the deck with a flashlight. Press a screwdriver into suspicious wood; if it sinks in easily, have it looked at.
Add shade the right way
Pergolas, shade sails and roof extensions make a deck usable in July. A solid cover adds weight and wind load, so it usually needs a permit and proper connections. Plan it with a deck or porch builder rather than bolting it on.
Outdoor kitchens and appliances
Many Texas decks and covered patios now include a grill station, outdoor refrigerator or ice maker. Keep appliances out of direct afternoon sun where you can, and give them the clearances the manufacturer calls for. If an outdoor fridge or other appliance acts up in the heat, appliance repair specialists can help keep it running.
Know when to call for repairs
Loose railings, bouncy stairs, soft boards and stains on the siding below the deck all deserve prompt attention. Many problems are simple to fix early and expensive to fix late.