6 Deck Mistakes You Should Avoid This Summer If You Want It to Last

Introduction Deck Mistakes

Your deck is one of the most valuable outdoor features of your home. It’s where summer memories are made, backyard barbecues, family gatherings, quiet evenings with a book, but without the right care, it can also become one of the fastest deteriorating areas of your property. What many homeowners don’t realize is that summer is the most critical time for deck maintenance. The way you care for your deck during the hottest months will determine whether it can withstand the harsh conditions of fall and winter. Deck Mistakes

Failing to address routine upkeep now can lead to costly problems later. Sun exposure, heavy foot traffic, outdoor furniture scraping across boards, food and drink spills, and high humidity all take a toll on your deck’s surface. Without proper attention, these factors can cause premature fading, cracking, rotting, or even structural damage. By the time winter arrives, with its freezing temperatures and moisture, the damage will only worsen. Deck Mistakes

That’s why it’s essential to understand and avoid the most common deck mistakes homeowners make during summer. At MGS Contracting Services, we’ve seen firsthand how easily avoidable issues can shorten a deck’s lifespan or create dangerous conditions for families. In this article, we’ll break down the six biggest mistakes people make when caring for their decks and provide expert tips to ensure your deck remains beautiful, functional, and safe year-round.

Our recommendations are based on years of experience maintaining and repairing decks across Northern Virginia. By following these professional insights, you’ll save yourself the expense of major repairs and enjoy your deck for decades to come. Deck Mistakes

CREDIT: PINTEREST

Why Deck Maintenance in Summer is Crucial Deck Mistakes

Many homeowners underestimate the impact summer has on the longevity of their deck. While winter snow and ice are often blamed for deck deterioration, the truth is that most deck failures begin in the summer, when the deck is exposed to the highest levels of wear and tear. The summer season is when your deck is used the most and is subjected to damaging environmental elements that can compromise its structure and appearance over time. Deck Mistakes

The Connection Between Summer Damage and Winter Failure Deck Mistakes

The summer months expose your deck to intense UV rays, fluctuating temperatures, and heavy use. These conditions gradually weaken deck materials, allowing moisture to penetrate more easily. When colder months arrive, that trapped moisture freezes and expands, leading to cracking, warping, and rotting. This cycle of deterioration accelerates structural problems that could have been prevented with proper summer care. Deck Mistakes

In fact, industry data shows that a significant portion of deck failures, nearly 25%, stem from a lack of seasonal maintenance. Neglecting routine inspections, cleaning, and sealing in the summer allows small issues like loose boards, minor cracks, or mold growth to worsen. By the time homeowners notice, the damage has often spread beneath the surface and may require expensive professional repairs or even full deck replacement. Deck Mistakes

Prevention Saves Thousands in Repairs Deck Mistakes

Taking care of your deck during the summer is not just about aesthetics, it’s about protecting your investment. On average, repairing extensive structural damage can cost several thousand dollars, while a full deck replacement can range anywhere from $8,000 to $20,000 or more depending on size and materials. In contrast, performing routine maintenance tasks like cleaning, sealing, and inspecting fasteners during the summer costs only a fraction of that amount.

Early intervention is key. Identifying and addressing issues while they are still small can extend the life of your deck by years, keep your family safe, and save you from major expenses down the road. Deck Mistakes

Summer Elements That Cause Cumulative Deck Damage Deck Mistakes

Your deck faces multiple stressors during summer, many of which work together to accelerate deterioration:

• Direct Sun Exposure: UV rays dry out wood fibers, causing fading, cracking, and splintering.
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• High Humidity and Moisture: Summer rain and humidity allow mold and mildew to thrive, weakening the structure.
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• Heavy Foot Traffic: Family gatherings, kids playing, and pets scratching contribute to surface wear and loosened fasteners.
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• Outdoor Cooking and Barbecues: Hot grills, grease spills, and food stains penetrate the wood and leave permanent damage if not cleaned promptly.
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• Outdoor Furniture: Moving furniture across the deck surface can scratch or gouge boards, creating pathways for water to enter. Deck Mistakes
  

When these factors are left unchecked, the damage multiplies. By fall and winter, moisture finds its way deep into compromised boards and fasteners. Once temperatures drop, the freeze-thaw cycle begins, expanding trapped moisture and causing serious structural issues. Deck Mistakes

The Bottom Line Deck Mistakes

Summer is the most critical season for deck maintenance. By implementing proactive care now, inspecting for damage, cleaning thoroughly, and applying protective sealants, you’ll dramatically reduce the likelihood of costly problems later. MGS Contracting Services has seen countless examples where a simple summer inspection could have prevented thousands of dollars in repairs. Deck Mistakes

In the next sections, we’ll walk you through the six most common deck mistakes homeowners make during summer and exactly how to avoid them. Deck Mistakes

Mistake #1: Ignoring Existing Damage Deck Mistakes

One of the most serious deck mistakes homeowners make is failing to recognize and address existing damage. Many assume that as long as the deck looks fine on the surface, it must be safe and sturdy. Unfortunately, even minor issues can lead to significant structural problems if left untreated. Deck Mistakes

Signs of Deck Damage Homeowners Often Overlook Deck Mistakes

Decks are constantly exposed to weather, moisture, and everyday use, and over time these elements begin to weaken the structure. It’s common for homeowners to overlook early warning signs because they appear minor or cosmetic at first. Here are the key indicators of damage you should watch for: Deck Mistakes

• Cracks, Splits, or Warping: Wood naturally expands and contracts with temperature and moisture changes. If boards begin to crack or warp, it’s a sign the integrity of the deck is compromised. Warped boards can also create trip hazards. Deck Mistakes
  
• Rot or Soft Spots: Wood rot weakens boards and joists from the inside out. You may notice soft areas that give when stepped on or boards that appear spongy. Deck Mistakes
  
• Loose or Corroded Nails and Screws: Fasteners hold your deck together. If nails are popping up, screws are corroding, or connectors are pulling away, it means the deck is losing its structural stability. Deck Mistakes
  
• Mold, Mildew, or Algae Growth: Greenish or black patches on the boards or railings are more than just an eyesore. Mold and algae trap moisture, which accelerates wood decay and makes surfaces slippery and unsafe.
  
• Discoloration: Uneven or darkened patches on boards often indicate water damage beneath the surface.
  

How to Inspect Your Deck Step-by-Step Deck Mistakes

Regular inspections are essential to catch problems early. You don’t need advanced tools to identify most issues, just a careful eye and a few minutes of your time. Here’s how to do a basic inspection: Deck Mistakes

1. Examine All Boards and Railings: Walk the entire deck and look closely for visible cracks, rot, and warping. Pay special attention to areas near water sources, planters, and the base of railings where moisture tends to collect.
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2. Probe Suspect Areas: Use a screwdriver or similar tool to gently press into any areas that look discolored or soft. If the screwdriver sinks easily into the wood, that board is likely rotting and should be replaced.
   
3. Check Fasteners and Hardware: Look for nails or screws that are loose, rusted, or missing. Tighten or replace them immediately to maintain structural stability.
   
4. Inspect the Underside: Use a flashlight to look underneath the deck. Check for moisture buildup, rot in joists and beams, and any loose or corroded connectors.
   
5. Inspect the Ledger Board: This is the board that connects the deck to your house. If it’s pulling away, rotting, or showing signs of corrosion, your entire deck could be at risk.
   

The Risks of Ignoring Repairs

Neglecting even small deck repairs can lead to major problems. A single rotting board may seem harmless now, but wood rot spreads quickly, compromising the strength of surrounding boards and joists. Loose fasteners allow the deck to shift under pressure, and deteriorating ledger boards (which support the deck’s weight against the house) can cause catastrophic deck collapses.

From a financial standpoint, addressing minor repairs promptly is far less expensive than replacing large sections, or an entire deck, later. In many cases, a simple board replacement or fastener tightening can extend the life of your deck for years.

Pro Tip: When in Doubt, Call a Professional

If you’re unsure about the condition of your deck or don’t feel comfortable performing an inspection, schedule a professional assessment. MGS Contracting Services provides thorough deck inspections to identify hidden structural issues and recommend the right solutions before they become dangerous or costly.

Ignoring existing damage is one of the most preventable deck mistakes, yet it’s also one of the most common. By taking the time to inspect your deck each summer and addressing problems as they arise, you’ll protect your family’s safety and save yourself thousands in future repairs.

Mistake #2: Overusing High-Pressure Washing

Many homeowners believe that blasting their deck with a pressure washer is the quickest way to remove built-up dirt, grime, and mildew. While pressure washers can be effective tools when used correctly, overusing them, or using them improperly, is one of the most damaging deck mistakes you can make.

Why High PSI Can Destroy Your Deck

A pressure washer’s high-pressure stream can easily exceed 3,000 pounds per square inch (PSI), and while that power might make quick work of dirt, it also damages the deck’s surface. Here’s why:

• Wood Fibers Are Stripped Away: On wood decks, a pressure washer can erode the soft fibers, leaving behind splintered, fuzzy, or gouged surfaces that weaken the board’s integrity. This damage also makes the deck more porous, allowing water to penetrate and accelerate rot.
  
• Composite Decking Can Be Scarred: Composite boards are less porous than wood, but high pressure can still create permanent etching marks or strip protective coatings, making the material more vulnerable to staining and fading.
  
• Loosens Fasteners: The force of the water can loosen nails and screws, leading to structural instability.
  

Over time, improper pressure washing doesn’t just hurt the deck’s appearance, it shortens its lifespan and increases the risk of costly repairs.

Safe PSI Range and Nozzle Types for Decks

If you do choose to pressure wash your deck, it’s essential to use the proper settings and attachments:

• PSI Range: For most decks, a range of 500 to 1,200 PSI is sufficient. Anything higher can cause damage, especially to older or softer wood.
  
• Nozzle Type: Use a 40- to 60-degree fan tip nozzle, which disperses the water in a wider pattern and reduces the intensity on any one spot. Avoid pinpoint nozzles, they’re far too aggressive for wood and composite decks.
  
• Maintain Distance: Always hold the nozzle at least 12 to 18 inches away from the deck surface, and keep it moving in even strokes to avoid gouging.
  

Safer Alternatives to High-Pressure Washing

If you’re unsure about using a pressure washer, or your deck is already showing signs of age, there are safer cleaning options:

1. Low-Pressure Washing: Many professional-grade machines allow for adjustable pressure settings, which can be reduced for more delicate cleaning.
   
2. Deck Brushes and Eco-Friendly Cleaners: A stiff-bristled deck brush combined with an oxygenated cleaner is highly effective for removing dirt, mildew, and algae without damaging the surface. Cleaners with sodium percarbonate are a good choice because they lift stains and kill mold without harming the deck material or nearby landscaping.
   
3. Garden Hose Rinse: After scrubbing, a strong spray from a garden hose is often sufficient to rinse away residue.
   

These methods may take more time and elbow grease, but they’re far safer for the long-term health of your deck.

When to Call a Pro for Cleaning

If your deck is large, heavily soiled, or you’re worried about causing damage with a pressure washer, it’s wise to call a professional. A reputable contractor like MGS Contracting Services has the right equipment and expertise to clean your deck safely and thoroughly. Professionals also know how to inspect for hidden damage during cleaning, saving you from unpleasant surprises later.

Bottom line: Overusing or misusing a pressure washer is one of the most common and destructive deck mistakes homeowners make. By using the correct PSI settings, choosing the right nozzle, or opting for safer cleaning alternatives, you can keep your deck looking great without sacrificing its structural integrity.

Mistake #3: Using Household Bleach

When faced with mold, mildew, or algae on their deck, many homeowners instinctively reach for household bleach. After all, bleach is a powerful cleaner and disinfectant used indoors. However, this is one of the most damaging deck mistakes you can make. While bleach may appear to clean the surface quickly, it causes long-term harm to your deck, its fasteners, and even the surrounding environment.

Why Bleach is Harmful to Your Deck

Household bleach is a harsh chemical that was never designed for exterior deck maintenance. Here’s why using it is a major mistake:

1. Breaks Down Lignin in Wood:
   Wood contains lignin, a natural compound that binds fibers together and provides structural strength. Bleach attacks and degrades this lignin, causing the wood to weaken, dry out, and eventually crack or splinter. This damage is often irreversible and can shorten the lifespan of your deck significantly.
   
2. Corrodes Screws, Nails, and Fasteners:
   Bleach is highly corrosive. Over time, it can eat away at metal fasteners such as nails, screws, and joist hangers. This compromises the structural integrity of your deck, making it unsafe and more susceptible to failure.
   
3. Kills Plants and Harms the Environment:
   Bleach runoff from deck cleaning can damage nearby landscaping by burning grass, shrubs, and flowerbeds. It can also contaminate soil and groundwater, posing environmental hazards.
   
4. Discoloration and Residue Issues:
   Bleach can cause uneven fading or blotchy stains on your deck boards, leaving the surface looking worse than before. It also raises the wood’s pH, making it harder for stains and sealants to adhere properly later on.
   

Safer Alternatives: Oxygenated Cleaners

Instead of bleach, professionals recommend oxygenated cleaners containing sodium percarbonate. These cleaners are specifically designed for exterior wood and composite decks.

• Why They Work: Sodium percarbonate releases oxygen when mixed with water, which lifts mold, mildew, algae, and dirt from the surface without harming the wood fibers.
  
• Environmentally Friendly: These cleaners are biodegradable and safe for nearby plants and soil.
  
• No Structural Damage: They clean effectively without breaking down lignin or corroding metal fasteners.
  

Oxygenated cleaners are widely available at home improvement stores and are simple to use. Most come in powdered form and can be mixed with water and applied with a pump sprayer or deck brush.

Pro Tip for Older Decks: Follow with a Wood Brightener

If you’re working on an older deck or one with stubborn stains, follow the oxygenated cleaner with an oxalic-acid-based wood brightener.

• Restores pH Balance: Bleach and even some cleaners can raise the wood’s pH level. A brightener restores balance, ensuring that future stains and sealants adhere properly.
  
• Evens Out Discoloration: Brighteners help minimize blotchy patches and restore the deck’s natural color.
  
• Prepares Deck for Sealing: This step enhances the bond between the wood and the protective sealant or stain you apply next.
  

The Bottom Line

Using household bleach on your deck might seem like a quick fix, but it’s one of the worst deck mistakes you can make. It damages wood fibers, weakens fasteners, harms the environment, and often leaves your deck looking worse in the long run. Instead, choose oxygenated cleaners formulated for decks, and follow up with a wood brightener if necessary.

By avoiding bleach and using the right products, you’ll not only protect your deck’s structure but also preserve its beauty for years to come.

Mistake #4: Cleaning Only Once a Year

One of the most common deck mistakes homeowners make is assuming that one deep cleaning in the spring is enough to keep their deck in good shape all year. While spring cleaning is important, it’s not sufficient, especially because summer is when your deck experiences the most use and exposure to damaging elements. Skipping additional cleanings during the season allows grime, mold, and moisture to accumulate, which can lead to serious structural and aesthetic problems down the road.

Why Your Deck Needs More Than One Cleaning

Summer is the peak usage period for decks, and it’s also the season when the most wear and tear occurs. Here’s why:

• Heavy Foot Traffic: Kids, guests, and pets use the deck constantly, leaving behind dirt, oils, and scratches.
  
• Outdoor Cooking and Grilling: Spilled grease, sauces, and food debris not only stain the boards but also attract insects and rodents.
  
• Spills from Drinks and Sunscreen: Sugary drinks, alcohol, and oily sunscreens can seep into wood fibers, causing discoloration and long-term damage if not removed.
  
• Moisture from Rain and Humidity: These create ideal conditions for mold and mildew to grow, especially in shaded areas.
  

By the end of summer, your deck has endured months of constant abuse. Leaving this buildup until next spring allows stains to set in, mold to spread, and water damage to worsen.

The Right Cleaning Frequency

To maintain a healthy and long-lasting deck, aim to clean it at least twice a year:

1. Deep Cleaning in the Spring: This prepares the deck for heavy summer use by removing the grime and debris that accumulated over winter.
   
2. Lighter Cleaning in Late Summer or Early Fall: This step addresses the damage and buildup from summer activity, setting the deck up for a successful sealing before winter.
   

For decks in climates with high humidity or frequent storms, a third cleaning mid-summer may also be beneficial.

Step-by-Step Late Summer Cleaning Guide

Late summer cleaning doesn’t need to be as intensive as your spring deep clean, but it’s essential for protecting your deck heading into the colder months. Here’s how to do it:

1. Sweep Thoroughly: Remove leaves, twigs, and debris that trap moisture and cause staining or mildew. Be sure to clear the gaps between boards so water can drain properly.
   
2. Spot Clean Stains and Spills: Use a gentle, deck-safe cleaner to tackle grease spots from the grill, drink spills, and other visible stains. Don’t let these sit, as they can become permanent.
   
3. Light Wash the Entire Surface: Rinse the deck with a garden hose or use a low-pressure washer set to 500–1,200 PSI. Combine this with an oxygenated cleaner to lift embedded dirt and kill mold spores without damaging wood fibers.
   
4. Dry and Inspect: After cleaning, allow the deck to dry completely. This is the perfect opportunity to inspect for any new cracks, loose boards, or fasteners that may need attention.
   
5. Seal or Stain if Needed: If your water-drop test shows that water no longer beads on the surface, apply a protective sealant or stain to guard against moisture over the winter.
   

The Bottom Line

Cleaning your deck only once a year is a mistake that accelerates wear and tear, shortens its lifespan, and can lead to expensive repairs. By committing to a consistent cleaning schedule, at minimum in spring and late summer, you’ll prevent buildup that causes mold, rot, and stains.

Mistake #5: Skipping Staining or Sealing

One of the most damaging deck mistakes homeowners make is failing to stain or seal their deck regularly. While cleaning and basic upkeep are important, without a proper protective coating, your deck is left vulnerable to moisture, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations that slowly destroy its structure.

Why Unsealed Wood Absorbs Moisture and Fails Faster

Wood is a naturally porous material. When it’s not sealed, it readily absorbs moisture from rain, humidity, and melting snow. During winter, this moisture freezes and expands inside the wood fibers, causing cracking, warping, and splitting. Over time, these small fractures lead to structural instability, rot, and in severe cases, deck failure.

Sun exposure makes the problem worse. UV rays dry out the wood, weakening its fibers and fading its color. Without a sealant or stain to protect against these elements, your deck’s lifespan can be cut in half.

How to Check If Your Deck Needs to Be Sealed: The Water-Drop Test

Not sure if your deck is due for sealing? Perform a simple water-drop test:

1. Sprinkle a few drops of water onto the deck surface.
   
2. If the water beads up, the existing sealant is still protecting the wood.
   
3. If the water soaks in and darkens the wood, it’s time to reapply a sealant or stain.
   

This quick test can help you avoid the mistake of letting too much time pass between treatments.

How Often Should You Stain or Seal Your Deck?

In general, decks should be sealed or stained every 1–3 years, depending on the product used and the climate you live in. Decks in high-humidity areas or those exposed to direct sun for most of the day may need more frequent applications.

Failing to maintain this schedule is one of the most common deck mistakes, leaving the wood vulnerable to the elements year after year.

Sealer and Stain Options

When it comes time to protect your deck, you’ll need to choose the right type of product:

• Transparent Sealers:
  
  • Best for newer decks or homeowners who prefer the natural look of wood.
    
  • Penetrates the wood to create a water-resistant barrier without altering the color significantly.
    
• Semi-Transparent Stains:
  
  • Adds pigment to protect against UV rays while still allowing the wood grain to show through.
    
  • Ideal for older decks or those that need more sun protection.
    

Both options will help preserve your deck’s structural integrity and enhance its appearance when applied correctly.

The Bottom Line: Protect Your Investment

Skipping staining or sealing is a costly error. Once moisture and UV rays penetrate the surface, damage compounds quickly, leading to expensive repairs or premature replacement.

Mistake #6: Neglecting the Underside of the Deck

One of the most overlooked deck mistakes homeowners make is failing to maintain the underside of their deck. While the top surface is more visible and easier to access, the underside is just as critical to your deck’s structural integrity. Ignoring it allows hidden moisture damage, mold, and rot to develop, problems that can compromise the safety and lifespan of the entire structure.

Why Damage Starts from Below

The underside of your deck is exposed to the same weather conditions as the top, but it’s also shaded and harder to dry out after rain. This makes it the perfect environment for moisture buildup, especially in humid climates.

• Mold and Mildew Growth: Without direct sunlight to dry the wood, the underside of the deck can remain damp for days after rainfall. This creates ideal conditions for mold and mildew, which feed on the wood fibers and spread quickly.
  
• Wood Rot: Persistent moisture weakens the wood over time, causing rot in beams, joists, and ledger boards, the structural components that hold your deck together. Once rot begins, it can spread silently, often undetected until serious damage has already occurred.
  
• Increased Pest Activity: Damp, neglected areas are attractive to termites, carpenter ants, and other wood-destroying pests. These pests further accelerate structural decay.
  

How to Properly Clean and Maintain the Underside of Your Deck

The good news is that with a little effort, you can prevent damage from occurring below your deck. Here’s how:

1. Clear Debris Regularly:
   
   • Use a leaf blower or broom to remove leaves, sticks, and other debris that accumulate under the deck. This debris traps moisture and blocks airflow, encouraging rot and mold growth.
     
   • For ground-level decks, use a wet-dry vacuum or a rake to remove debris in hard-to-reach areas.
     
2. Inspect for Moisture and Damage:
   
   • Check the underside of your deck at least twice a year for signs of rot, mold, or mildew.
     
   • Pay close attention to the joists (horizontal supports) and the ledger board (the board that connects the deck to your home). These are key structural elements that, if damaged, can lead to catastrophic deck failure.
     
3. Look for Loose or Corroded Fasteners:
   
   • Just like the top of the deck, the underside’s nails, screws, and brackets can rust or loosen over time. Replace any corroded fasteners immediately to maintain stability.
     
4. Wash When Necessary:
   
   • If you see mold or mildew, scrub affected areas with an oxygenated cleaner and rinse with a garden hose. Avoid using bleach, as it can damage the wood and harm surrounding vegetation.
     

Consider Moisture Control Solutions

To further protect your deck, you can install moisture control features that reduce the risk of long-term damage:

• Moisture Barriers: Install a moisture barrier or membrane on top of joists before replacing or installing decking boards. This prevents water from pooling on structural components.
  
• Lattice Skirting: Adding lattice or solid skirting around the perimeter of your deck can block debris from blowing underneath while still allowing airflow. Proper airflow is critical to preventing trapped moisture.
  
• Drainage Systems: If your deck is elevated, consider adding a deck drainage system to channel water away from the area below.
  

The Bottom Line

Neglecting the underside of your deck is one of the most dangerous deck mistakes you can make because the damage it causes is often hidden from view until it’s too late. By cleaning regularly, inspecting structural components, and using moisture control solutions, you’ll significantly extend the life of your deck and avoid costly repairs.

Bonus Tips for Deck Longevity

Avoiding the major deck mistakes outlined above is the first step toward protecting your investment, but incorporating additional maintenance habits will go even further in extending the life of your deck. These small practices prevent hidden damage and preserve the deck’s beauty year-round:

1. Inspect and Maintain Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor furniture can unintentionally damage your deck’s surface. Metal furniture frames may rust and leave unsightly stains, while chair and table legs can scratch or gouge the boards.

• Check for Rust: Inspect all metal furniture for signs of rust and treat it promptly with rust remover or a protective coating.
  
• Use Furniture Pads: Attach rubber or felt pads to the bottom of furniture legs to prevent scratches and gouges.
  
• Move Furniture Periodically: Rotating the position of furniture avoids uneven fading on the deck’s surface caused by prolonged sun exposure.
  

2. Keep Grills and Planters Elevated

Grills, planters, and other heavy items often trap moisture beneath them. This creates the perfect environment for mold, mildew, and wood rot.

• Use Grill Mats: Place a heat-resistant grill mat under your barbecue to catch grease and embers without trapping moisture.
  
• Elevate Planters: Set planters on risers or use pots with built-in feet to allow airflow underneath. This prevents water from pooling and seeping into the boards.
  

3. Choose Breathable Outdoor Rugs

Outdoor rugs add style and comfort, but not all rugs are suitable for deck surfaces. Solid-backed rugs made of non-breathable materials trap moisture, accelerating wood rot and mildew growth.

• Opt for Rugs Designed for Outdoor Use: Look for rugs made of polypropylene or other breathable materials that allow air and moisture to pass through.
  
• Clean and Dry Rugs Regularly: Lift the rug periodically to remove debris and ensure the deck beneath stays dry.
  

These bonus habits, when combined with regular cleaning, sealing, and inspections, help prevent common deck mistakes that lead to premature wear and costly repairs.

Final Thoughts & Call-to-Action

Your deck is one of the most valuable features of your outdoor space, but it’s also one of the most vulnerable to the elements. As we’ve discussed, summer is the critical time for deck maintenance. From avoiding high-pressure washing and bleach-based cleaners to sealing and inspecting both the surface and underside, preventing deck mistakes now will ensure your deck remains safe, attractive, and structurally sound for years to come.

Neglecting these simple tasks can lead to moisture damage, wood rot, structural instability, and expensive replacements, all of which can be avoided with proactive care.

If you notice any of these issues or simply want a professional to ensure your deck is in top condition, MGS Contracting Services is here to help. Our team specializes in thorough deck inspections, repairs, sealing, and maintenance that protect your investment and give you peace of mind.

Contact MGS Contracting Services today to schedule a deck inspection or maintenance service. We’ll help you eliminate hidden problems, correct past deck mistakes, and ensure your deck is ready to handle every season for years to come.