How to Care for a Brazilian Wood Deck

Keep debris off the deck. Sweep the deck regularly to get rid of leaves, pine needles and other debris that has accumulated on the surface. Although Brazilian wood decks are resistant to rot, piles of leaves and debris can lead to damage if left untreated. If you have plants or decorations sitting on the deck, move them around periodically so weathering spots aren't left on the wood.

Apply a finish to the wood every one to two years if you want to maintain the original color of the decking. Brazilian wood weathers into a silver-gray color, which is preferred by many homeowners. However, if you want to keep the decking the original color, apply a penetrating oil finish with UV protection. Apply only a thin layer of the finish to the deck and follow the manufacturer's instructions for specific application methods. If you choose to let your deck weather naturally, apply a wood stabilizing agent to the deck right after installation. This only needs to be applied one time and will help protect the wood from cracking. Check with the deck manufacturer for specific products recommended for your Brazilian wood deck.

Clean your Brazilian wood deck as often as needed. Use a scrub brush and mild soapy water or a pressure washer to clean the deck. If using a pressure washer, choose one with 2,500 to 3,000 psi. Hold the nozzle about 12 inches from the surface of the deck and move it back and forth over the wood. Maintain an even speed when pressure washing the deck so streaking doesn't occur.