Cleaning your deck might seem like an unnecessary chore. However, if you neglect your deck, the time and money you spend on it will increase exponentially.

Think of your deck as a living thing, especially if it is made from bison wood tiles. The wood you use in a deck is organic and continues to react to stimuli such as moisture, pressure and time. See below to get some tips on proper deck maintenance and extending the life of your patio.

1. Stick to Regular Sweeping

To avoid moisture and dirt buildup, try to sweep your deck at least once per week. If the weather is especially bad, you might need to clean more often. Taking a few minutes out of your day to remove leaves, water and other debris will prevent chronic damage that is more difficult to fix.

2. Take Care of Pressure-Treated Wood

Pressure-treated wood is much more durable than untreated wood. However, do not mistake that for meaning it is maintenance-free. Stick to a regular cleaning schedule, even with more durable types of wood. Look for sealants meant for pressure-treated wood and apply when necessary.

3. Avoid Paint

You may be tempted to use paint as a sealant. However, this will lead to more significant problems down the road. The most durable and efficient way to finish your deck is with synthetic sealants that penetrate the wood in your deck. Anything else will crack or peel over time and require extensive sanding and scraping to refinish. If you opt to use paint, be prepared to hire a professional to sand off and reapply paint every few years. Otherwise, your deck will start showing its age fast.

Decks do not have to be a difficult thing to maintain. However, if you let it rot or apply the wrong sealant, you set yourself up for failure. Create a good foundation with good cleaning habits and appropriate finishes to make your life easier and keep your deck looking new.