Keep your deck safe, looking good, and lasting decades with this seasonal maintenance routine.
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Check for soft or spongy boards
Press firmly on every board, especially around posts and edges. Soft timber means rot has set in — replace affected boards before the damage spreads.
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Inspect all fixings
Check screws, nails, and bolts for corrosion, popping, or looseness. Corroded fixings weaken the structure. Replace with stainless steel or galvanised fasteners.
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Check for raised boards or trip hazards
Boards can cup, warp, or lift over time. Sand down high spots and re-fix lifted boards. This is a safety issue — especially important if children use the deck.
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Clear debris from between boards
Leaves, dirt, and seeds trapped in the gaps hold moisture against the timber, accelerating rot. Sweep or blow out debris seasonally.
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Check drainage underneath
Water pooling under the deck causes rot from below. Ensure the ground slopes away from the house. Consider laying weed mat and gravel for drainage.
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Inspect posts and bearers
The structural members (posts, bearers, joists) carry the load. Look for cracks, rot, termite damage, and corrosion on post stirrups. This is the most important check.
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Oil or stain annually
UV and rain strip oils from timber within 12 months. Re-oil or re-stain annually (more often in harsh sun). Clean the deck first with a deck wash product.
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Pressure wash with care
A pressure washer removes dirt and old oils but can damage softwood if held too close. Keep the nozzle 30cm+ from the surface and use a fan pattern.
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Check handrails and balustrading
Grab each rail and shake it. Wobbly handrails are a safety hazard. Re-fix or replace. Building regulations require handrails on decks over 1m above ground.
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Check compliance if selling
Decks over 1m above ground may need council approval. If selling, a non-compliant deck can delay settlement. Check with your council.