HOW LONG DOES A WOOD DECK LAST?

One of the most satisfying parts of being a homeowner is sitting on your wood deck to enjoy a sunny day or a beautiful sunset outside your home. Whether you have built the wood deck yourself or just enjoy using it, decks and patios are one of the highlights of most homes. The last thing you will want to do as a homeowner is worry about the stability and lifespan of your wood deck. While a wood deck may not last forever, wood decks can last a long time, especially with proper care and maintenance. Learn more about wood deck and patio lifespan below.

What Is The Lifespan Of A Wood Deck?

One of the most popular materials for decks and patios is wood. Not only are wood decks beautiful, but the wood is also simple to find and relatively inexpensive as a building material. When properly maintained, a wood deck can last for anywhere from 10 to 30 years. However, the exact lifespan of the deck can be influenced by several factors, including the wood type, maintenance, weather and location.

Factors That Influence Wood Deck Lifespan:

Location

The location of the wood deck can greatly impact how long the deck lasts, as well as how it needs to be maintained. If a deck sits under a lot of shady trees, the wood will probably take longer to dry out after rains, making the deck more susceptible to mold, mildew, cracking, and other water damage. If the deck sits directly in the sun, the UV rays can cause a different set of damage, drying out the wood deck sealer and warping the boards over time. If possible, you will want your wood deck to get equal parts sun and shade.

Type Of Lumber

Different types of wood have different pros and cons. For example, cedar is considered one of the best types of wood for fences and decks because it retains less moisture and is less likely to rot. However, cedar needs to be cleaned often and sealed annually, as it scratches easily. Mahogany is a hardwood, which resists scratches better, but can still decay over time. Consult a building professional to find the right type of wood for your location and lifestyle.

Lumber Quality

In addition to the type of wood used to build the deck, the quality of the lumber used makes a difference. Like the old adage says, you get what you pay for. You want your wood deck to be built from lumber that has few defects. It may seem like a good idea to purchase the cheapest lumber, but low-grade lumber could come with knots, twists, and cupping that leads to a less attractive appearance and lower structural rating.

Distance From Ground

Decks that sit right above the ground do not last as long as the that are higher up, as the soil retains and regularly releases moisture. A deck close to the ground may take longer to dry out due to a lack of ventilation and may even result in significant amounts of wood rot.

Maintenance

Regardless of any other factor, all wood decks need regular maintenance. This includes cleaning, staining, and sealing. Regular maintenance can prevent a variety of damage, including that caused by moisture, UV rays, pests, mold, high traffic, and other damage. Make sure you know the best way to maintain your deck based on its location, wood type, and lifestyle.

If you are ready to complete annual maintenance on your wood deck, contact the team at Lovitt’s Coatings to find the right products for your project. Our professional team can answer questions and provide insight to help make your wood deck last for many years.