Fall in the Lower Mainland is a season of wet shoes, misty mornings, and that unmistakable scent of damp cedar in the air. Summer is gone, but winter has not quite taken over. It is a season of in between. Your yard still looks decent, your deck is holding on, and you keep thinking about putting the patio furniture away but have not done it yet.
If there is one thing most BC homeowners know by now, it is this: moisture always wins if you give it enough time. That is why fall is the season to either protect your deck or watch it take the hit come spring.
We work with decks every day, and this time of year always feels like a turning point. Give your deck a few hours of attention now, and it will return the favor with fewer problems and a longer life.
Here is how to do it right, with steps that actually work in our coastal climate.
Clear Off the Junk Before It Turns to Sludge
Leaves start to fall in September and they do not stop until well into November. When they land on your deck, they do not just sit there looking pretty. They trap moisture, create dark patches, and eventually start to break down into organic sludge. That is what feeds algae, mold, and mildew. And once it starts growing, you are dealing with slippery surfaces and wood that will not dry out.
Start by sweeping once or twice a week. Use a soft outdoor broom and pay attention to corners and areas under railings. If you have potted plants or furniture that has been sitting in one spot all summer, lift it up and look underneath. You might be surprised how damp and discolored the wood is in those hidden spots.
If your deck is multi level or has hard to reach areas, a leaf blower works well too. Just make sure you do not blow everything into your neighbor’s yard.
Give It a Proper Cleaning
Fall is the best time for a thorough clean because the sun is not too strong and the rain has not totally taken over yet. This is not about blasting everything with a pressure washer. Using high pressure water on cedar or composite decking can damage the surface and strip off protective finishes.
Instead, grab a hose, a bucket of warm water, and a stiff brush. Use a biodegradable deck cleaner or a mild dish soap. Focus on high traffic areas, shaded zones, and anywhere moss or algae might be growing. Scrub along the grain of the boards and rinse well.
If your deck is already showing signs of green growth or staining, there are cleaners made just for this purpose. Look for one labeled safe for wood. Stay away from bleach or anything corrosive. You want to clean your deck, not destroy the surface.
Test the Seal and Reseal if Needed
Here is a simple test you can do right now. Pour a small amount of water on different areas of your deck. If the water beads up, your seal is still good. If it soaks in, the wood is unprotected and will absorb moisture all fall and winter.
Most decks need resealing every couple of years. Fall is a perfect time because the weather is cooler and the wood is usually dry from the summer. Pick a few dry days so the sealant can cure properly.
Use a clear sealant for a natural look or a tinted stain if your deck needs a refresh. Apply with a brush, roller, or garden sprayer. Pay special attention to stair treads and board edges since those areas take the most abuse.
We covered more about when to do seasonal maintenance in our post on the best time of year to build a deck in BC. It is worth reading if you are planning work or repairs soon.
Inspect All the Trouble Spots
Fall is when small problems start to grow if you let them. Walk your deck slowly and look closely. Run your hand along railings. Press down on boards and stairs. Crouch low and look where the deck connects to the house.
Here is what you want to watch for:
- Soft spots or boards that flex under pressure
- Wobbly railings or loose supports
- Nails sticking up or screws that have backed out
- Cracks near fasteners
- Rust on brackets or hangers
- Dark patches near the base of posts
If anything feels questionable, do not put it off. Fixing small things now is easier and cheaper than rebuilding entire sections later.
If you are unsure what type of deck construction you are working with, it might help to read about covered decks versus open decks, especially since each one faces different fall and winter challenges.
Take a Look Underneath
A lot of issues start under the deck where nobody is looking. Shine a flashlight around the edges or crawl under if it is safe and accessible.
What to check for:
- Pooling water or poor drainage
- Mold or mildew on the underside of boards
- Rodent nests or signs of bugs
- Rot or softness in support posts
- Exposed metal that is starting to rust
If water is collecting under there, you might need gravel or a better slope to keep it dry. If air is not moving well, cut vents into the skirting or switch to a more breathable design.
Store or Cover Everything Properly
Outdoor furniture, umbrellas, and planters are great in summer but they do more harm than good in fall and winter. Moisture gets trapped between surfaces and cushions grow mildew fast.
Move cushions, umbrellas, and small furniture indoors if you can. If something has to stay out, use a breathable cover made for outdoor use. Avoid wrapping items in plastic. That traps condensation and makes things worse.
Empty planters and store them off the deck. Wet soil sitting all winter is a rot magnet, especially if you have cedar boards underneath.
Trim Back the Greenery
Bushes and trees that touch the deck hold moisture and prevent sunlight from reaching the boards. Fall is a great time to trim everything back at least a foot from the edge.
This helps the deck dry out faster and reduces the amount of leaves that pile up where you do not want them.
If large trees overhang your deck, consider trimming back a few limbs or installing a small awning to direct rain and debris away from the boards.
Be Careful About Snow and Ice
If snow falls in the Lower Mainland, it usually sticks around just long enough to cause trouble. When it does arrive, use a plastic shovel or a broom. Push snow gently along the length of the boards.
Do not use metal shovels or chip away at ice. That can splinter wood and ruin finishes. Avoid salt or ice melt products unless they are labeled safe for use on wood and composite.
If stairs get icy, consider installing anti slip tape or textured treads before the cold weather settles in.
Think About Upgrades While It Is Quiet
Fall is a slower season for deck projects, which makes it a good time to plan upgrades. You know how the deck performed all summer, so now is your chance to address the issues you noticed.
Here are a few improvements worth considering:
- Add a waterproof storage bench
- Install low voltage or solar lighting
- Upgrade railing materials or refinish with stain
- Replace worn out screws and hardware
- Plan your spring rebuild while demand is low
If you are thinking about making changes, feel free to look through our blog for other tips on seasonal deck care. The more you plan now, the smoother your project will go when the weather clears up.
Know When to Call a Pro
If your deck is older or you are not sure how it was built, a professional inspection can be a smart move. Many problems hide inside the framing, especially where water has been collecting.
A local deck builder can spot trouble early and help you decide whether you need small repairs or a bigger project next year. At All Hands on Deck, we focus on realistic advice and honest work, no pressure.
Do the Work Now and Relax Later
Fall is not just about cozy sweaters and pumpkin scented candles. It is your last shot to protect your deck before months of cold and rain move in. The small tasks you do now will save you time, money, and stress when spring comes back around.
Even if you only sweep once a week, tighten a few screws, and cover your furniture, you are already ahead. That is what makes fall one of the most important seasons for deck maintenance in British Columbia.Need a hand with fall prep, minor repairs, or a professional inspection? Contact All Hands on Deck today and let us help you protect your deck through the wet season.
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