--- title: "The Summer Sun Is Quietly Wrecking Your Deck—Here’s How to Stop It" description: "This guide offers tips for keep your wood or composite deck from fading and graying. Learn about protective covers, sealants, and more." date: "2026-06-30" modified: "2026-06-30" authors: - name: "Savannah Sher" job_title: "Contributing Writer" link: "https://www.bobvila.com/authors/savannah-sher/" url: "https://www.bobvila.com/exterior/how-to-protect-deck-from-sun-damage/" categories: - "Deck, Patio & Porch" - "Exterior" tags: - "News" --- # The Summer Sun Is Quietly Wrecking Your Deck—Here’s How to Stop It ![View from the deck of a luxury home in the autumn woods. Outdoor living concept, bright fall foliage, and intentional sun flare highlight.]() *Photo: Jim Pintar via Adobe Stock* While wood decks might look beautiful when they’re first installed, they quickly begin to appear weathered if they aren’t properly maintained. [Pressure-treated wood]() is generally considered the most economical material for decks and has a number of advantages, including being resistant to rot and pest infestations due to the chemicals used. Unfortunately, just like other wood, it is still susceptible to fading, graying, and sun damage. Read on to learn more about all the best ways to protect your wood deck from the sun’s harsh UV rays. ## Choose a protective sealant. ![Pooled water droplets on sealed deck boards.]() *Photo: fandu via Adobe Stock* The first step in preventing sun damage to your deck is to ensure it’s coated with a protective stain or sealant. There are a number of products (available on [Amazon]()) on the market that protect against water damage as well as UV rays. Since you should seal your deck anyway, you may as well choose a product that also prevents sun damage. Sealants are usually reapplied every two years for optimal results. ## Invest in an awning. ![worker install an awning on the house wall over the terrace window]() *Photo: ronstik via Adobe Stock* [Awnings]() can be either automatically or manually retractable, allowing you to choose to soak up the sun or sit in the shade, depending on the day. They are made with UV-resistant materials, so that they continue to look fresh for years while protecting your deck and patio furniture from sun damage. Since they’re retractable, they also can be closed when it rains to help extend their lifespan even further. ## Open an umbrella. ![Large umbrella open over patio furniture with yellow cushions, on a wood deck.]() *Photo: BritCats Studio via Adobe Stock* Consider adding a [cantilever umbrella]() to your deck to provide shade and protection. This style of umbrella has an offset pole rather than a centered one in order to create an unobstructed seating area underneath. Umbrellas usually only cover a relatively small amount of space, so they may need to be paired with other sun protection methods on larger decks. ## Choose a light color. ![Empty upper level deck boasts redwood railings overlooking the lower level deck.]() *Photo: Javani LLC via Adobe Stock* When picking a [stain for your deck](), consider which colors will absorb the most heat. The closer to black, the more light and heat it will absorb from the sun. While dark-stained decks may look great, they can be more likely to fade, incur other sun damage over time, and require more frequent maintenance. ## Opt for a composite deck. ![Worker installing wood plastic composite decking boards with a drill.]() *Photo: Ronstik via Adobe Stock* Wood decks inherently require frequent maintenance and need to be resealed or restained every couple of years no matter how well you care for them. [Composite decks](), however, are increasing in popularity due to their long lifespans and low maintenance needs. They’re usually made from a mixture of wood particles and plastic to make them durable and more resistant to sun bleaching. ## Approach pressure washing with caution. ![Man wearing Crocs pressure washing a mildewy deck.]() *Photo: volgariver via Adobe Stock* One of the most essential factors in protecting your deck from sun damage is ensuring the wood remains strong in order to resist UV rays. While pressure washing is one of the most popular methods of cleaning a deck, the strong water pressure can soften and damage the wood, making it susceptible to sun damage. As a gentler alternative, consider making a [DIY deck cleaner]() or buying a quality commercial product. ## Raise a shade sail. ![Deck of a house with wooden chairs and table under a shade sail.]() *Photo: Jason Finn via Adobe Stock* A [shade sail]() is a semi-permanent installation that provides shade to a deck. Shade sails are made from UV-resistant fabrics in order to maintain their color longer over time. Unlike awnings, they are typically fixed in place and remain there throughout the season. Because of this, they may be the best choice for those who rarely want to bask in the sun. ## Build a pergola. ![Wooden pergola over an exterior patio with garden furniture and a banister overlooking a large backyard.]() *Photo: Jason via Adobe Stock* A pergola adds ambience to an outdoor living space while also providing some sun protection. Some [pergolas]() are open and let in sunlight through the rafters, while others have decking or fabric coverings that provide more complete sun protection. If covered, they still allow a breeze to flow while covering more surface area than an umbrella. ## Author Savannah Sher started writing for BobVila.com in 2020 and has worked as a content writer since 2016. She specializes in home and gardening but also covers lifestyle, beauty, fashion, and pop culture for other publications. She writes both direct-to-consumer and B2B content.