Let’s Talk Decks

Written By Stephen Brinson

How to Prevent Your Deck from Rotting — and Should You Stain or Paint It?

Your deck is one of your home’s favorite gathering places — the space for cookouts, quiet coffee mornings, and Lowcountry sunsets. But Charleston’s humidity, salt air, and heavy summer rains can take a toll on your deck’s wood. Without proper care, even pressure-treated lumber can start to rot and weaken over time.

Here’s how to keep your deck healthy, strong, and looking great for years to come.

1. Keep It Clean and Dry

Moisture is wood’s worst enemy. Sweep off leaves, pine needles, and debris regularly so they don’t trap water against the surface. At least once or twice a year, give your deck a deep clean using a deck cleaner or mild detergent to remove mildew, dirt, and algae buildup.

Tip: Avoid pressure-washing at too high a PSI — it can damage the wood fibers and open the surface to more moisture.

2. Inspect for Damage

Walk your deck seasonally and check for:

  • Soft or spongy spots

  • Loose nails or screws

  • Cracks around posts or joists

  • Areas where boards meet the house (these hold water the longest)

Catching small problems early prevents bigger, more expensive repairs later.

3. Improve Drainage and Airflow

Standing water means future rot. Make sure water drains away from your deck by:

  • Keeping gutters and downspouts clear

  • Sloping the deck slightly away from your home

  • Trimming bushes or vines so air can circulate underneath

Good airflow helps the deck dry out faster after rain or humidity.

4. Seal the Deal — Paint or Stain?

When it comes to protecting your deck, you’ve got two main finish options: paint or stain.

✅ Stain:

  • Soaks into the wood, preserving its natural texture and grain

  • Easier to maintain and reapply

  • Usually better at resisting peeling and cracking

  • Great for that classic wood look

✅ Paint:

  • Provides a solid, uniform color and thicker protective layer

  • Can help hide imperfections in older boards

  • Needs more prep work and can peel or chip over time if moisture gets underneath

In Charleston’s climate, stain is often the better long-term choice — it allows the wood to breathe while still providing excellent UV and moisture protection. If you love a painted look, choose a high-quality exterior paint made specifically for decks and recoat every few years.

5. Schedule Regular Maintenance

A well-maintained deck should be cleaned and resealed every 2–3 years, depending on sun exposure and foot traffic. Think of it as giving your deck a fresh coat of sunscreen to keep it healthy year after year.

Final Thought

Your deck adds value, beauty, and outdoor living space to your home — don’t let Charleston’s coastal weather take that away. Whether you need cleaning, repairs, or a full refinishing, Happy House Handyman can help you protect your investment and keep your deck in tip-top shape.

📞 Call 843-620-4260

Stephen Brinson
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