How To Care For and Maintain Your Cedar Deck
Cedar Deck Maintenance
Port Orford Cedar decking is the best cedar choice for your new deck. Even with its natural beauty and higher resistance to decay and pests as compared to other wood options, Port Orford Cedar is deserving of care and maintenance.
- Keep your deck clean by using a commercial deck wash or a mixture of TSP and water, following manufacturer guidelines. Focus on clearing dirt and debris from the gaps between individual deck boards.
- Stain your deck with an oil-penetrating stain. Read more in our Ultimate Staining Guide
- For decks built in fall or winter, clean and refinish in spring if staining wasn’t immediate. Left unstained, Port Orford cedar will gradually turn silver-gray with natural weathering, requiring regular inspection and cleaning to maintain.
- To effectively remove mildew, mold, or algae, use a cleanser designed for fungi removal or a bleach solution consisting of 3 quarts warm/hot water, 1 quart bleach, and 1/3 cup TSP. Never mix bleach with ammonia or ammonia-based cleaners and take care to protect adjacent materials and vegetation during use. After cleaning, thoroughly rinse the surface and allow it to dry completely before applying another coat of penetrating oil stain for renewed protection.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cedar Decks
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Why should I consider Port Orford cedar for my next wood deck?
Consider Port Orford cedar for your next wood deck due to its exceptional strength, natural resistance to decay and insects, ease of use with tools, and ability to take wood stain beautifully, making it a durable and visually appealing choice for outdoor projects.
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How do I clean my Port Orford Cedar Deck?
To clean your Port Orford Cedar deck, sweep it with a broom, use a solution of mild detergent and water, gently scrub the surface with a soft-bristled brush or cloth, and rinse thoroughly with water, avoiding abrasive cleaners or pressure washing that could damage stain or wood fibers.
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When should I stain my deck?
You should stain your deck when the weather forecast predicts at least two to three consecutive days of dry weather with mild temperatures, typically in the spring or fall, to ensure optimal conditions for application and drying. Consult our Ultimate Staining Guide to learn more.
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How often should I stain my deck?
You should stain your deck every 2 to 3 years to maintain its appearance and protect the wood from weathering, although the frequency may vary based on factors such as climate, sun exposure, and the type of stain used.
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Where is Port Orford Cedar grown?
Port Orford cedar (Chamaecyparis lawsoniana) is primarily native to a small region in southwestern Oregon, United States. It is named after the town of Port Orford, which is located near the Coquille River in Curry County, Oregon.
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