But decks take a lot of abuse, both from use and through continued exposure to weather. After a few years, without proper care, they become weathered and worn.

Fortunately, most deck surface problems are cosmetic, not structural, because decking is built of durable woods, usually redwood, cedar or pressure-treated pine. Redwood and cedar heartwoods have a natural resistance to termites and decay; pine is pressure-treated with a pesticide to give it insect and decay-blocking power.

Even so, ultraviolet radiation (UV) from the sun breaks down surface fibers, causing graying and surface erosion. Moisture encourages surface mildew and causes stains, particularly in damp or humid climates. And natural extractives in redwood and cedar can discolor the surface.

The road to restoring a deck's great look is usually simple, regardless of the type of wood used for its construction. First it's cleaned, then any discoloration is treated. And last (but not least), the result is protected with a durable finish.

-- Tips courtesy of HomeAdvisor.com