A timber deck is a great place to sit down with a cup of tea or coffee, a book or newspaper, and tune-out the world for an hour or so.

While a deck can be a relaxing haven, regular maintenance is a must to keep it in tip-top condition. You need to do some work before getting to that relaxation point.

Timber decking might seem invulnerable, but it is as susceptible to damage as is wood in the wild. Following are some tips to look after it. 

Maintaining Air Flow

Timber decking, like any wood, can suffer from mold and rot so It is crucial to promote air-flow around all sides. This is particularly important if your deck does not catch direct sunlight.  

Fallen leaves, particularly damp rain-soaked leaves are a constant hazard so regular sweeping is a must. Don't allow rotting leaves to settle in crevices between the planks. A 5-in-one painter's tool is handy for gently removing any stuck debris.

Periodically shift your pot plants around so they are not sitting in the same position, creating damp patches with no fresh air flow. One option is to elevate the pots to prevent this in the first place. Cut back any nearby shrubs to prevent them crowding the decking.

Everyday Maintenance

Get in the habit of looking after your deck as you would any flooring surface inside your house. Don't leave spilled food or drink staining or damaging your decking just because it is outside. However, one thing that you do have to watch out for that is not inside is bird droppings; keep an eye out and clean them off ASAP.

Protect the timber from scratches by attaching plastic or rubber glides to any chairs, tables or other furniture legs. If your family members or friends scrape back their chairs while socializing on your deck, everything is already taken care of. 

One important thing to look out for are loosened nails, wobbly planks or rough areas that can leave splinters in tender bare feet.

Cleaning And Resealing

Timber decking needs to be washed and re-sealed regularly. Depending on the particular wood, this can be an annual task, or you might be able to get away with doing it less often. Check with a timber decking expert on what's best. 

Prior to resealing, your deck needs a thorough cleaning with recommended products. Oxygen bleach is one environmentally friendly option that foams-up and so reduces the scrubbing power needed. First though, check the upcoming weather forecast for the next week or so to ensure no rain is predicted. Before resealing, your deck needs to be absolutely dry. 

Sealants commonly protect against water, ultraviolet damage, and fungus growth. Some products have an inbuilt fire retardant. This protection does wear out over time, however, leaving your deck exposed to damage, so regular re-sealing is necessary.