The effects of weather can take a toll on a deck, so keeping it clean is a good way to preserve its quality and endurance. A basic cleaning every year is a good maintenance routine, because the dirt and mildew that accumulates can be surprising and damaging. It’s an important job, whether you hire a…

Do you have a wood deck? How much time do you invest in cleaning and sealing it? How many gallons, currently priced around $55 per gallon, of high-quality sealer do you use to make your deck look fantastic? I pretty much know all the answers because I’ve dealt with cleaning and sealing outdoor decks, fences,…

Are you about to build a deck by yourself? Perhaps you’re going to hire a professional. My guess is you don’t know as much about the process as you should know. Add to the mix the cable TV shows that go on and on and on about how simple it really is. To be honest,…

Dear James: We have an old wood deck and are expanding its size. The old deck looks bad compared to the new one. How can we make it look newer to match?—Valerie M. Dear Valerie: If the old decking was not cleaned and treated regularly, it can look almost black. The mildew can get slippery…

Do you own anything made of wood that lives its life outdoors? It could be a stunning deck, perhaps a decorative privacy fence, maybe a pergola, or even a teak table and chair set. I’ve owned all of the above, and more, over the years. When I was younger, I didn’t think much of the…

Dear James: My kids are getting older, and a backyard deck would be great. I am on a limited budget and want to build it myself but have no idea where to start. Any tips? — Maria S. Dear Maria: The addition of a deck, usually adjacent to a sliding glass door, is one of…

Dear James: I am building a large new L-shaped deck. I am not sure about how to position and attach the decking boards because of the L shape. Do you have any tips? — Greg S. Dear Greg: Fitting and attaching the decking boards is usually the easiest part of a deck building project. An…

WASHINGTON—General Motors Co. on Wednesday recommended that Chevrolet Bolt electric vehicle owners parking in decks do so on the top floor or on an open level, at least 50 feet away from other vehicles, citing potential fire risks. The precaution would “reduce potential damage to structures and nearby vehicles in the rare event of a…