Let’s face it, if you live in Northern Michigan and you own a wood deck, it’s going to take a beating. We get it all up here: blazing sun, freezing snow, lake-effect winds, pine needles, acorns, and probably a rogue raccoon or two. As a local deck builder in Traverse City who’s been around the block (and built a few), I get this question all the time:
"How often do I really need to clean, seal, or restain my deck?"
The answer depends on a few things, but if you want your deck to keep turning heads and standing strong, you’ll want to pay attention. Because even the most high-end wood decks need some love to stay looking their best.
Why Maintenance Matters for Wood Decks in Northern Michigan
We build beautiful decks up here—cedar, redwood, pressure-treated pine—but this isn't Arizona. Wood is a living material. It expands, contracts, cracks, and weathers. Without regular care, your $20,000 luxury deck can start to look like an abandoned fishing dock.
Regular maintenance keeps your deck:
- Structurally safe (no one wants to fall through the boards during a wine tasting)
- Visually stunning (rich color, no graying or peeling)
- Resistant to rot, mildew, and UV damage
- Worthy of the summer parties you’ll want to throw
So, How Often Should You Clean Your Deck?
At least once a year. Twice if you want to really stay ahead of the grime.
Spring is the best time to do it. You want to wash off the winter gunk and prep the wood before summer entertaining kicks off. A good deck cleaning removes dirt, mildew, pollen, and whatever your neighbor’s cat tracked over in February.
Pro Tip:
Use a wood-safe cleaner and a soft-bristle brush. Or if you're feeling fancy, hire us and we’ll bring the power washer (used gently—we’re not trying to strip paint off a tank).
When Should You Seal a Wood Deck?
Most wood decks should be sealed every 1-2 years. If your deck faces full sun all day or sits beneath a canopy of sap-dripping trees, you might want to do it annually.
A good sealant keeps moisture out and prevents cracking, warping, and fading. Think of it like sunscreen for your deck.
How do you know it’s time?
- Water no longer beads up on the surface.
- The wood looks dry or gray.
- It just feels thirsty. (You’ll know.)
Sealing is clear or lightly tinted. It won’t drastically change the look of the wood, but it will protect what you paid for.
How Often Should You Restain a Deck?
Every 2-3 years, depending on your stain type and exposure.
Solid stains last longer but cover the wood grain. Semi-transparent stains look more natural but need more frequent touch-ups. Oil-based stains tend to soak in deeper and give better long-term protection.
If your deck is looking faded, patchy, or peeling, it’s time. Don’t wait until the boards look like driftwood from Lake Michigan.
Restaining Checklist:
- Clean the deck thoroughly first
- Let it dry for 24-48 hours
- Sand if the surface is rough or peeling
- Apply stain evenly and avoid puddles
You can do it yourself, or you can hire a pro and spend that weekend sipping wine on someone else’s deck.
Luxury Decks Still Need Maintenance (Yes, Even Yours)
We build a lot of high-end decks in Old Mission Peninsula, Glen Arbor, and downtown TC. And let me tell you—even if your deck was built from exotic hardwood and cost more than your car, it still needs love.
If anything, you should be more protective. That Cumaru or Ipe wood may last decades, but it won't look rich and warm unless you oil and clean it regularly.
Signs You’re Behind on Maintenance
- Your deck squeaks like a haunted house.
- The boards look more gray than brown.
- Nails are popping up like whack-a-moles.
- It smells musty, or worse—like wet dog.
If you’re seeing these signs, it’s not too late. But you’ll want to schedule maintenance ASAP or risk needing a full deck replacement.
Common Questions from Northern Michigan Homeowners:
Can I skip sealing if I restain?Some stains include sealant. Check the label or ask your deck guy (hi, that’s me).
What about composite decks?They’re lower maintenance, but they still need an occasional wash. Algae, dirt, and pollen don’t care what your deck is made of.
Do I need to sand my deck every time I stain?Not always. Only if the surface is peeling, rough, or was previously finished with a film-forming stain.