This post was updated on December 4, 2024
How Long Do Wood Decks Last?
There is no deck wood that lasts forever, as these structures are subjected to harsh exterior elements. For example, your deck potentially faces ultraviolet (UV) sunlight, rain, snow, ice, mold, mildew, bird droppings, and wood-destroying insects. A wood deck’s life expectancy may vary based on the type of material used, the quality of materials, your local climate, and how well the structure is maintained.
Typical Lifespan of a Wood Deck: What to Expect
How long should a wood deck last? The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) estimates that wood deck planks should last 15+ years, composite planks from 8 to 25 years, and wood used for structural support from 10 to 30 years. According to Cedar Supply, a lumber supplier for more than 40 years, a well-maintained wood deck should last for 15-20 years and composite decks should last from 25 to 30 years.
Reflecting on my years of experience, I’ll explain the common types of deck-building materials, the best maintenance practices, and how to choose the best products for extending the lifespan of your wooden deck.
Extending the Life of Your Wood Deck with Regular Maintenance
Your deck represents a way of making good use of your exterior space, improving your property’s appearance, and adding value to your home. Because a deck is exposed to natural, outdoor elements, foot traffic, and other factors, failing to properly maintain it will diminish its appearance, create safety concerns, and result in costly repairs.

A well-maintained deck.
That’s why staining your deck every two to three years is critical with a deeply penetrating stain. This barrier of protection resists moisture, sunlight, and other causes of damage. The staining process must begin with preparing the wood, by removing any existing coating completely, repairing any damaged boards, removing any splinters, and cleaning and brightening the deck surface.
Consider the following approach for properly cleaning your deck:
A thorough cleaning will usually remove any existing stain or coating. For more stubborn stains, I recommend using a deck stain stripper (Visit this link for my complete assessment of these products). Keep in mind that a traditional deck stain stripper is typically insufficient for removing solid color stains or paint. For these coatings, I recommend purchasing RAD PaintStrip Paint & Solid Stain Stripping Gel and following the instructions.
- Before applying deck cleaner, use a garden hose or power washer to gently pre-wet the surface.
- Using a pump sprayer, apply the deck cleaner. You may need to pre-mix the cleaning solution in a separate bucket before using the sprayer.
- Let the cleaner soak into the surface for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Scrub the deck’s surface with a stiff brush to stimulate the cleaning action.
- Use a pressure washer set to 2,400 PSI or less to rinse. A garden hose can also work, but it takes more time to loosen the grime.
- Apply a wood deck brightener (or neutralizer) to reduce the pH level and help expand the “pores” to allow for better stain penetration.
- Allow the wood to dry completely for 24 to 48 hours before staining.
Wood Deck Stains and Products: Key to Longevity
Color and Transparency Choices
- Transparent: With a very light tint, transparent stains are fairly clear and exhibit the natural wood appearance (and potential flaws). Transparent stains offer minimal UV protection and will likely need reapplied each year.
- Semi-transparent: With slightly more tint, semi-transparent stains add some color while still showcasing the natural wood grain.
- Semi-solid: Offering good UV resistance, semi-solid stains will still show some of the wood’s natural appearance.
- Solid: With a “paint-like” texture, solid stains offer excellent UV protection and should last 2 to 3 years. Semi-solid or solid stains are generally best for concealing the substantial imperfections found on many older decks.
Application Notes
Before staining, check the weather forecast for any possibility of rain. Generally, deck stain sprayers, flooring brushes, paint rollers, or application pads are best for covering large areas and brushes are better for tight or hard-to-reach areas. Allow the stain time to penetrate (absorb) and promptly remove any remaining (excess) stain.
Composite vs. Wood Decking: A Comparison of Longevity and Maintenance
Usually made of mixed organic and synthetic material, composite decking is a popular alternative to natural wood offered in many colors and designs. Popular types include wood-plastic composite, mineral-plastic composite, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Data from Forbes indicates that the lifespan of composite decks ranges from 15 to 25, in contrast to wood, which they broadly estimate at 10 to 30 years.
Although partially synthetic, composite decking is susceptible to UV light and moisture, which may cause fading, discoloration, and mildew growth. Composite deck stain will form a protective barrier. Similar to natural wood, composite materials must be thoroughly cleaned before staining. Composite stains may be applied using a brush, roller, or pad.
I’ve experienced success staining composite decks using TWP Semi-Solid Pro-Series, which is oil-based, available in many colors, and penetrates well. Most composite decking is fairly resilient, but I’d suggest using brushes with softer bristles to avoid scratches. Keep in mind that composite decking may be slippery when wet.
Choosing the Right Products for Your Wood Deck’s Longevity
For natural wood decking, select a stain that is best formulated for your specific needs. Here are some of my favorites for different applications:
- For full sun (UV) exposure protection: Restore-A-Deck Semi-Transparent Wood Stain
- For decks with existing UV damage: Armstrong Clark Wood Deck Stains are oil-based and help restore woods that have lost their natural oils
- Clear stain for cold climates: TWP 100 Series Wood Stain
When Is It Time to Replace Your Wood Deck?
As your deck ages, cracks will eventually develop and individual deck boards may need replacement. I do not generally recommend using “caulk-like” or filler products. Consider replacing your deck when regular repairs are necessary and the structure has a poor appearance.
Sun Damaged Decking
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Wood Deck Investment
By following a consistent maintenance schedule and choosing appropriate products, both natural wood and composite decks should easily increase your wood deck’s life expectancy to 15-25 years. I encourage you to visit our interactive help forum, which is a valuable resource for all topics related to deck maintenance and restoration.