Space deck boards apart to allow proper water drainage. A deck that dries after wetting will last longer than one that stays damp.

Keep the deck free of leaf, pine needle and other debris build-ups. These can retain water and clog drainage channels resulting in a deck that cannot drain and dry properly after wetting.

Moisture and debris can collect where butt joints occur over joists. To create drainage, butt decking boards between double joists as shown in Figure 1, leaving a 1/8 in. space between the ends of the boards.

Move planters, benches and other deck accessories from time to time to allow the deck under them to dry thoroughly.