What Should I Do if My Deck Is Splintering?

Sanding Down Problem Areas

• If you notice a small area that is splintered, this can typically be taken care of with a small square of heavy grade sandpaper. Go with the grain of the wood and smooth out any visible or tangible splinters. You may need to "blend" in your sanded area slightly with the wood around it. If the area is larger in size, a power sander will help you get the job done in less time.

Replacing Individual Boards

• If you have a large area that is heavily splintered, it may be necessary to replace the entire board. This is particularly true if you notice splintering happening on a regular basis. Measure out the board and simply pry it up and replace it with a new board as necessary. Taking care of a deck is an ongoing process, and it's good to have properly sized boards on hand to replace damaged sections as necessary.

Resealing the Deck

• To prevent future occurrences of splintering, or more damage, you will need to reseal the deck if you make repairs. This is necessary to protect the newly sanded or replaced boards as well as to provide a layer of protection over the rest of your deck. If your deck is stained, you will need to apply the right color deck stain to the sanded or new boards first, and then apply your deck sealant on top of the stain.

Proper Maintenance for a Deck

• In order to prevent future problems with your deck, it is necessary to maintain it properly. Decks should be powerwashed at least twice a year, preferably in spring and in fall. Sealing your deck is also a job that should be done every two years if you have typically nice weather, and every year if you live in an area with extreme weather patterns or excessive rain/snow fall. In addition, special care should be made to fix problem areas as they occur, rather than allowing them to worsen.