How To Protect a Deck With Pot Feet

All homeowners want their deck to last for decades, but most don’t realize their potted plants degrade their deck boards. Pots often trap moisture between their base and the ground surface. Failure to address this accumulation of moisture can result in several issues that will affect how your deck looks and functions.

If you want to protect your deck from moisture damage and avoid a costly renovation, we recommend elevating your planters with pot feet. This simple fix safeguards your deck and plants by allowing air to circulate between them. 

In this guide, we’ll discuss the benefits of pot feet, how to choose the right ones for your deck, and other ways to protect it from moisture damage.

Why Should I Use Pot Feet To Protect My Deck?

The main perk of using pot feet is to prevent moisture build-up between your planters and your deck surface. Elevating containers allows air to circulate freely, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth, warping or cupping of deck boards, and wood rot.

Using pot feet is hardly the only method for reducing moisture damage, but it is one of the easiest. By lifting your pots off the ground, you can instantly improve the longevity of your deck.

Types of Pot Feet

Pot feet come in various shapes and sizes, but their differences extend beyond aesthetics. Different types of pot feet have different applications, so know your options before you buy.

Decorative Pot Feet

Decorative pot feet serve both functional and ornamental purposes. These often come in animal shapes, antique styles, floral motifs, and geometric designs.

These pot feet can add a charming touch to your outdoor decor while simultaneously protecting your deck. However, if you prefer something simpler, you may want to opt for more functional pot feet.

Functional Pot Feet

Functional pot feet prioritize practicality over style. They typically look simple and feature plastic or rubber and have non-slip surfaces.

These pot feet are ideal for those seeking a low-profile solution that does the job without drawing attention. Their durability makes them suitable for various weather conditions, providing consistent year-round protection.

DIY Pot Feet

For budget-conscious homeowners or DIY enthusiasts, creating your own pot feet is another option.

Here are popular DIY methods:

• Crafting feet from weather-resistant materials like cedar or pressure-treated wood
• Repurposing old casters or furniture feet
• Using flat stones or pebbles

These DIY options may not be as flashy as decorative pot feet, but they can help give your deck decor a more personal touch.

How To Choose the Right Pot Feet for Your Deck

Not all pot feet are the same, so try to choose a material compatible with your deck and capable of supporting the weight of potted plants.

Here are the types of pot feet we recommend for each kind of deck:

• Composite decking: Cork or rubber are ideal for composite decks. Avoid feet that can scratch, stain, or leave rust marks behind.
• Stone or tile decks: Cork, rubber, or pot feet with non-slip bases work best on slick, hard surfaces.
• Wood decks: Bamboo, cork, smooth stone, glazed terracotta, and rubber work well with wood decks and reduce the odds that you’ll scratch or dent the surface.

Alternative Methods To Protect Your Deck

While pot feet are an excellent solution for moisture damage, you can re-seal your deck boards or lay down protective outdoor mats.

Although you’ll need to reapply it every one to two years, we recommend coating your wood deck with a high-quality water-resistant sealant.

If you use a protective mat or outdoor rug, understand that many designs lack ventilation. That means they could trap moisture and damage your deck’s surface. When shopping, choose a mat material that will facilitate plenty of airflow.