Deck Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Michigan Deck Looking Great

Michigan weather can be rough on your deck. Between snow, sun, rain, and humidity, your outdoor space needs some care to stay safe, clean, and looking sharp. Whether you’ve got pressure-treated lumber or a composite system, seasonal maintenance helps prevent damage and keeps your deck ready to use all year long.

Why Maintenance Matters

Without upkeep, decks can warp, crack, collect mildew, or start to rot – especially in Mid-Michigan’s freeze-thaw cycles. Composite and PVC options are more durable but still need a good rinse and scrub every so often.

Taking the time to clean and inspect your deck now helps you avoid costly repairs later. It also protects the investment you’ve made and keeps the space looking great for outdoor gatherings, cookouts, or just relaxing outside.

Know What Kind of Deck You Have

Pressure-Treated Lumber

These traditional wood decks need sealing every couple of years and benefit from deeper seasonal cleaning. You’ll also want to keep an eye out for splinters, loose nails, or weathered spots.

A quick way to tell if it’s time to reseal: sprinkle water on the surface. If it soaks in rather than beads up, it’s time.

Composite or PVC Decks (like TimberTech®)

Lower maintenance, but not maintenance-free. These materials don’t crack or rot, but they still collect dirt, pollen, and algae, especially in shady or damp areas. They clean up easily with water, a mild soap like Dawn®, or TimberTech® DeckCleaner and a soft brush. No staining, sanding, or sealing required.

When and How to Clean

Pick the Right Time

Clean your deck on a cloudy, cool day when possible. Direct sun can cause cleaners to dry too fast and leave behind streaks.

Use the Right Tools

Avoid anything abrasive like wire brushes or stiff bristles. These can scar the surface or leave behind metal fragments that rust. Stick to soft-bristle brushes or nylon deck brushes.

Rinse First, Then Scrub

Start by rinsing off dirt and debris with a garden hose. Then apply a mild soap (Dawn®) or TimberTech® DeckCleaner for composite/PVC decks. Work in small sections so the cleaner doesn’t dry before you scrub. Rinse thoroughly.

Clean Between Boards

Use a plastic putty knife or 5-in-1 tool to clear leaves, dirt, and gunk that collects between boards. Clogged gaps trap moisture and encourage mold or algae growth.

Don’t Forget the Railings and Surroundings

Rinse off furniture legs, rails, and any nearby surfaces—deck cleaners can splash, and residue left behind can stain.

Let It Dry Fully

If you’re cleaning wood before sealing, give it at least 24–48 hours to dry. Composite/PVC dries faster but should still be fully dry before heavy use.

Seasonal Maintenance That Makes a Difference

Spring

• Clear off branches, leaves, and debris.

• Wash the surface thoroughly and check for loose boards or fasteners.

• Tighten railings and inspect steps.

Summer

• Rinse the deck mid-season to remove pollen and dust.

• Clean grease, oil, and sunscreen spills immediately to prevent staining.

• Check for cracking or warping on wood decks.

Fall

• Give the deck a deeper clean before winter.

• Reseal wood if the water no longer beads up.

• Clear out leaves and debris under the deck to prevent trapped moisture and mold.

Winter

• Use a plastic shovel for snow.

• Use calcium chloride if you need to melt ice (skip rock salt—it’s too harsh).

• Knock down icicles near railings to avoid sudden impacts.

• Keep airflow under the deck clear and avoid outdoor rugs or mats that trap moisture.

Composite and PVC Decks: Easier by Design

One of the big perks of going with composite or PVC decking like TimberTech® is how little it takes to keep it looking good. No staining, sealing, or sanding required. A couple of quick cleanings a year is usually enough.

Just remember:

• Use a soft brush—never metal.

• Rinse it down if it starts looking dirty or dusty.

• Keep snow and debris clear during winter.

• Use breathable mats if you add furniture or rugs to avoid trapping moisture underneath.

If you’ve added aluminum railings, you’ll find those are low-maintenance too. Just wipe them down occasionally with mild soap and water—no rust, no repainting.

Visionary Builders Is Here to Help

When Visionary Builders finishes a deck, the job isn’t over. We help you understand what kind of maintenance to expect based on the materials you chose. Whether you’ve got traditional wood or modern composite, we make sure you know how to keep it in great shape.

Need a check-up on an older deck? Want to plan an upgrade?

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Frequently Asked Questions

• How often should I clean my deck?

  At least twice a year—spring and fall. If your deck gets heavy use or sits under trees, a mid-season rinse is smart.

• Can I pressure wash my deck?

  Only if you’re careful. Use a fan-tip nozzle, keep the pressure under 1,300 PSI, and stay at least 8 inches away. Do NOT pressure wash TimberTech PVC (AZEK) unless absolutely necessary.

• Do composite or PVC decks need sealing?

  No. TimberTech composite and PVC boards are built to resist moisture and fading without sealing or staining.

• What’s the best cleaner to use?

  Use TimberTech DeckCleaner or a mild dish soap like Dawn®. Avoid harsh household cleaners that contain ammonia or chlorine bleach.

• Can I use bleach if my deck has mold or mildew?

  Avoid chlorine bleach (sodium hypochlorite). Instead, use non-chlorine oxygen bleach (like OxiClean®) for stubborn stains.

• Can I use a wire brush or metal scraper?

  No. They can scar the boards or leave behind rusting fragments. Use a soft-bristle or nylon deck brush.

• What causes green or black stains on my deck?

  Usually mold, mildew, or algae from trapped moisture. Clean with TimberTech® DeckCleaner or a mild soap and ensure airflow under the deck.

• How do I know if my wood deck needs sealing?

  Sprinkle water on the surface. If it soaks in rather than beads up, it’s time to reseal.