Your deck will look newer and last longer with proper care and maintenance.
Water settles in the open cellular layers wherever there is a break and promotes rotting.
Freezing and thawing, especially where water has penetrated the inner cellular layers, accelerates cellular deterioration. Mold and mildew are particularly common trouble makers. Green, black or gray discoloration is caused by mildew colonization. Particulate matter comes in many forms such as dirt, soot, pollen, and food. These organic particulates provide nutrients for microbial growth and accelerate wood deterioration.