How often should you inspect and clean the deck?
Once a year. On a calendar: May.
Why it matters
Deck fasteners loosen and boards rot from the underside first. The failure mode is sudden, and it happens under load.
How to do it
Check for soft spots, popped fasteners, wobbly railings, and rot where posts meet the ground. Wash off grime; reseal when water stops beading on the surface.
Signs you've waited too long
Springy boards, leaning railings, or fastener heads standing proud of the wood.
Same part of the house
Gable keeps this list for you.
The Gable app builds your home's maintenance schedule, reminds you when tasks come due, and keeps the record of everything you've done. Coming soon to iPhone.