Now there's no such thing as maintenance free deck - even if you've gone out and gotten some of that new composite decking that's out there - you need to keep it clean and mildew free. But if you've built a deck out of wood - either treated lumber, cedar, or even redwood - you have to keep it clean as well and you have to keep it well-oiled. We don't want to use a surface protectant like a wax or that type. It's going to wear off and you're going to have to keep reapplying it.

What you want to use on your deck is a good boiled linseed oil preservative. The idea is if we can get that good oil soaked down into the pores of the wood, it will keep any moisture to even getting inside of the wood, thus preventing any damage. But before you apply any preservative, you've got to clean the deck first. First of all, it's going to remove all the dirt and mold and mildew that's grown over the years sitting outside, but it's also going to open up the pores of the wood so that this oil can get down in there.

Once you've cleaned the deck and let it dry for 24 hours, it's now time to apply the preservative. I don't care if you spray it on or roll it on - whatever's easier - the most important step of the process is to follow it up with a four-inch brush and brush that oil into the wood. Get it down into the pores and let it protect it. Once it dries, you're ready to enjoy your deck!

You're going to want to reapply this every three to four years. Other than that, get out and enjoy your deck!    
Don says even if you don't consider yourself handy around the house, cleaning and maintaining a deck is an easy project for anyone to tackle during a weekend. For other deck maintenance tips, visit www.homefront.com.