Best way to repair and reseal a deck before summer?
May 11, 2026 · contractor
My deck looks weathered. What's the right order to repair, clean, and reseal it for the season?
1 answer
Best answer
Order of operations: replace any rotten or loose boards and pop nails, clean the deck (deck cleaner + scrub or gentle pressure wash), let it fully dry 24–48 hours, then apply stain/sealer on a dry, mild day. Reseal every 1–3 years depending on exposure. If boards feel spongy or joists look rotted, have a pro check the structure before you seal over it.
