how to clean decking

How to prepare and clean decking. You read that correctly. Clean the wood surface in small sections, always keeping the wood wet and allowing the cleaner to soak into the wood before scrubbing. If any are badly rotted or cracked, repair it by bolting a similar board to the side of it. Can I clean my decking myself? Mold and mildew aren’t just an eyesore, they can be hazards to your health and can even shorten the life span of many composite deck boards. Washing will remove moss, mould and algae. You can do it with a brush on textured decks, or … There... © 2021 Evergreen Garden Care (UK) Ltd. There’s no need to pressure wash or scrub beforehand, so it’s the perfect way to revitalise and maintain your deck with minimal effort. Simply Spray & Walk Away. Cleaning & maintaining your timber deck. Lastly, rinse with clean water and leave the deck to dry. Frimley, Surrey GU16 7ER,  He works with homeowners to make a wide variety of improvements to make their homes more comfortable and liveable. Use a pressure washer or garden hose to loosen and rinse away any dirt or grime. Alternatively, you can use a speciality wood deck cleaner. Rent or purchase a pressure washer with a maximum pressure of about 1500 PSI (pounds per square inch) to avoid damaging your deck. To clean a composite deck, sweep it with a broom or leaf blower at least once a week to get rid of dirt and debris. A clean, polished deck will look finished if all broken parts are replaced beforehand. Cleaning paving and patios are often thought of as a tough job. Use a solution that dilutes in water, such as Ronseal Decking Cleaner or Liberon Tough Deck Clean and Revive, or a … If any caked on dirt or debris remains, rub the area until the debris begins to lift. Finally, let’s explore the most effective and safe approach if you want to restore the shiny clean state of your composite or plastic decking and don’t own high-pressure washing equipment. How to clean decking is a question you’ll be asking yourself pretty soon and an important part of having a deck is knowing how to care for it. Follow the lines as this enables water and suds to get into those grooved areas and come up really clean. Some sealers may include a waterproofing agent or mildew protection, so be sure to explore your options and find the best product for your deck. It’s always a good idea to reseal the deck after you give it a deep clean. 1 Archipelago, Lyon Way,  Decking is a fantastic addition to any garden, but it needs extra care and attention to keep it looking its best. This article was co-authored by Walter Brant. Feeling unproductive while working from home? How to Clean Mold and Mildew from Composite Decking. Avoid using regular chlorine bleach to clean your deck. Whether you’re growing herbs, vegetables or flowers, greenhouses are invaluable for cultivating plants that need... As the garden is an extension of our living space it makes sense that we have dedicated areas in which we can work, rest... One of the best ways to create an amazing place to relax or entertain guests in your garden is to build a deck. Let mixture stand for 5 to 10 minutes (or follow the instructions on the deck cleaner label). Learn how to clean your deck with this guide from Bunnings Warehouse. For a faster cleaning option, try using a pressure washer. Once you get the debris out of the crevices of the decking, you can proceed to sweep across the deck. If your deck is still dirty, hose it down, scrub with a brush and soap, then, rinse with a hose. However, a hand-job and careful eye will ensure a squeaky clean finish. Miracle-Gro® and Scotts® are trademarks of OMS Investments, Inc. Once your garden decking is clean, you can apply a clear or coloured decking oil. Remember to wear proper protective gear including rubber gloves, eye protection, and a mask over your nose and mouth while you work with this solution. Walter Brant is a wikiHow community member and contributor who has been repairing and restoring houses with over 30 years of experience. Make any deck repairs beforehand. Use these tips to remove mold and mildew stains from your deck boards. Be sure you have adequate drainage away from your deck before you start to hose. After you've finished cleaning the deck, remove the plastic wrap immediately. Clean out the debris between the deck boards often—debris holds moisture, which will cause the deck to rot faster. Outdoor decks can lose their luster as they get older, especially the decking and the handrails. You can use a leaf blower or an air compressor to help blow off excess water and speed up drying. Otherwise you could get water pooling under your deck, which may cause additional problems. This article was co-authored by Walter Brant. How to clean a greenhouse or conservatory. Use a broomstick, or a small brush, and a dustpan. Debris holds water, causing the deck to rot faster. These tips will ensure your deck is looking spotless and summer-ready in no time! Dust and Debris. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. Never under any circumstances mix bleach with ammonia, as this results in toxic fumes. Once you’ve addressed the most problematic areas, be sure to spray in between the decking boards to rinse away any remaining twigs, leaves or grass. Use 4 in (10 cm) galvanized lag bolts. It's amazing what you can do for a few bucks. This article has been viewed 87,720 times. If your home’s deck is in a shady or wet area, you need to know how to tackle mold. A pressure washer can quickly damage the wood if used too closely, making it even harder to clean or treat. 1. Please help us continue to provide you with our trusted how-to guides and videos for free by whitelisting wikiHow on your ad blocker. Apply your chosen cleaner to the decking using a watering can, then scrub the deck straightaway with your broom or brush, rubbing it into the grooves. A full list with tips & tricks for all seasons, Miracle-Gro® All Purpose Soluble Plant Food. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. If you want to use it for general cleaning you’ll need to scrub the surface and leave it for 10-15 minutes. For more advice from our reviewer, like how to clean decking with a pressure washer, keep reading! Sweep the deck once more to remove any dirt or dust that may have accumulated while it was drying. Always wear comfortable, close-toed shoes with pressure washer. Saturate the surface and scrub the deck with a stiff-bristled brush or sponge until the cleaning solution starts to lather. If you want to keep your decking in tip-top shape, give it a thorough cleaning at least once per year. By using our site, you agree to our. If you really can’t stand to see another ad again, then please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. Whether your deck is looking a bit worse for wear or you simply want to spruce up your patio for summer, we’ve got you covered! First, brush decking boards down and remove any leaves, mud and debris. It’s just a case of making sure the oil is pushed into the wood, not left on the surface. Then, mix oxygen bleach and warm water in a bucket and use a long-handled scrub brush to apply the solution all over the decking. ", "Pressure washer tips were easy to understand.". Suitable for a … This article has been viewed 87,720 times. It will lighten the wood, making it look cleaner, but it won't actually remove much dirt. If a railing moves too much, use a ratchet wrench to tighten the lag bolts or lag screws at the bottom of the posts that hold up the railing. Saturate the surface and scrub the deck with a stiff-bristled brush or sponge until the cleaning solution starts to lather. As with so many other cleaning processes, the DIY approach is perfectly possible so long as you familiarise yourself with the process and with the cleaning tools needed prior to getting stuck in. Remove anything that might get in your way – from large patio furniture to small potted plants and everything in between. Let mixture stand for 5 to 10 minutes (or follow the instructions on the deck cleaner label). 1 October 2020. Our handy guide will show you how to clean garden decking effectively in a few easy steps. Cleaning your deck was never so easy. Oxygen bleach does very little cleaner to the wood, and it's the main ingredient in most commercial deck cleaners. To use our High Performance Decking Cleaner dilute one sachet in 2.5 litres of water and spray or pour it on. Get expert advice. Here are some tips on how to go about it: Clear your deck before the snow starts. 2. However, if any stain has lingered and allowed to stand for some time, first make use of a brush and soapy water to take it off. The only way to retain the appeal and integrity of a your decking is to make sure you regularly clean them. Approved. From the warmth of classic timber to the cottagey charm of gravel, there’s a plethora of options to suit every space and lifestyle. Not only will this formula remove stubborn stains, but it also protects mould and algae re-growth from accumulating in the future. DISCLAIMER: If you choose to use a pressure washer, it is important that you understand how to do so properly, as the incorrect technique can actually damage your wood. You will also need a bucket and a supply of clean water. Scratches will trap dirt, look bad, and are difficult to clean. How to Clean Snow and Ice off Composite Decking Although some homeowners don’t use their decks during the winter months, those who use their decks to access the entrances to their homes will need to keep a walkway clear. The cleaning aisles in many grocery stores also sell oxygen bleach. How to clean a composite or PVC/vinyl decking without a pressure washer. Oils are easy to apply with no special skills required. If any repairs need to be made, do that now, as well. To clean deck wood, start by combining 1 cup of vinegar with 1 gallon of water in a bucket. Use a putty knife or a scraper to clean between the joists. % of people told us that this article helped them. Narrow nozzles can cut into the flooring. As decking dries the wood will return to its lighter original shade. Alternatively, you can use a speciality wood deck cleaner. Start off by clearing everything from the surface of your deck. To clean decking, start by removing any furniture and sweeping the deck to get rid of dirt and debris. Mold and mildew can sometimes make composite deck boards slippery, so use caution and wear good shoes while cleaning. Resort to the same steps of decluttering, sweeping and rinsing your deck, first. Under the deck, check the joists, these are the large boards spaced every 16 in (41 cm) or 24 in (61 cm) which support the deck boards. United Kingdom. In addition, it destroys wood fibers, damaging the wood over time. To get into small corners, use a sponge or small brush. Walter Brant. ... Decking Garden flooring tips for every lifestyle We’re spoilt for choice with outdoor flooring. When it comes to cleaning your timber decking, you have two best options: Using a bristled brush and soapy water, scrub the timber deck to remove all dirt and grime. Also, coat the deck periodically with a wood deck sealer, but be sure to clean it first. After the deck is dry, apply a deck sealer or waterproofing wood finish to waterproof the wood. Luckily, deck maintenance doesn’t have to be difficult. Check all over the decking for protruding nails, and nail them back in if you find any. If you choose to scrub the deck clean, choose a deck brush with natural or plastic bristles. Then, apply the sealer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If any boards are cracked, replace them. But it is much more simple than you might think and there are in fact a couple of different ways you can do it. This biodegradable, non-acidic, powerful concentrate does not contain bleach yet effectively eradicates moss, mould and algae. In addition, due to the fact we see our fair share of rain in this country, you run the risk of battling mold, moss and slime that will build-up on the surface. http://www.askmediy.com How to clean your deck with out using a pressure washer. As long as your deck timber isn’t rotten, a pressure washer is the best way to restore your deck to its original look. How to clean paving and patios: it’s a dirty job… or is it? Aim the sprayer directly at heavily soiled spots to remove as much debris as possible. One of the quickest ways to refresh your deck is to give it a good clean. Next, grab a broom and give the entire area a thorough sweep. In this case, several readers have written to tell us that this article was helpful to them, earning it our reader-approved status. "Told me exactly what I needed to know. With the right deck cleaning products, you can completely transform the appearance of your decking - and keep it functional for years to come. Make this DIY deck-cleaning solution. You can also go for a pole-type groove and crevice cleaner. Just remember: if you’re using a pressure washer, this step needs to be done with great care. Hold the nozzle at a slight angle to further lessen the pressure. When you powerwash your decking use the lowest setting so you don’t damage the wood. Although you can use the pressure washer, you should not do so until you have removed grease marks as well. Start by clearing everything from the surface of your deck. Walter Brant is a wikiHow community member and contributor who has been repairing and restoring houses with over 30 years of experience. Check in-between plank slats for hard-to-reach debris. How can I make sure my deck will last a long time? … Enzyme cleaners must be applied directly to the stain because the cleaning agents activate immediately. Be on especial lookout for safety threats, like rusty screws or bolts, uneven board edges, splintering, and protruding screws, nails, or bolts. Then, dip a broom or scrub brush into the mixture and wash the deck in the direction of the wood grain. Push on the railings to check that they are strongly mounted. How to remove green mold/ algae / mildew from wooden decking. Leave it to stand for up to 15 minutes to work (or follow instructions on the back of the deck cleaner box). https://www.familyhandyman.com/decks/deck-rescue-renew-your-deck/view-all/, http://www.improvementscatalog.com/RoomForImprovements/deck-cleaning-your-spring-cleaning-checklist/, https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/cleaning/how-clean-deck, http://www.improvenet.com/a/remove-your-deck-mold-in-3-simple-steps, https://www.bobvila.com/articles/homemade-deck-cleaner/, http://www.waterandhealth.org/safely-mix-bleach/, https://www.leaffilter.com/blog/home-exteriors/clean-deck-patio/, https://www.todayshomeowner.com/video/how-to-clean-and-finish-a-wood-deck/, http://www.popularmechanics.com/home/how-to/a9413/everything-you-need-to-know-about-pressure-washers-15826265/, https://www.consumerreports.org/pressure-washers/how-to-clean-a-deck-with-a-pressure-wash/, https://www.cleanipedia.com/gb/out-of-home/how-to-use-a-pressure-washer, https://www.askmediy.com/how-to-use-a-pressure-washer-to-clean-your-deck/, http://www.decks.com/how-to/14/using-a-pressure-washer-to-clean-a-deck, consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. Moss that starts growing in and around the garden, paving, and patio, can look unsightly but more importantly, it can be a serious hazard during autumn and winter when the moss turns into a lethal ice-rink. Remove anything that might get in your way or prove hazardous – anything from large patio furniture to potted plants. Let the sealant coat dry fully before moving furniture and accessories back onto the deck. It also removes moss, mould and algae, and helps make it easier to apply deck paint, stains and oils. and are used under licence from OMS Investments, Inc. Roundup® is a registered trademark and used under license. Composite decking is a great way to enjoy your garden or outdoor living space, and keeping it looking clean and inviting is straightforward and won’t take up too much time. Cover and saturate the intended surface and scrub the deck with a stiff-bristled brush or sponge until the cleaning solution or deck cleaner starts to lather and bubble up. Since your deck is exposed to the elements year-round, regular maintenance is key to its longevity. You may see it bubble a bit as it tackles the stains. Thanks. If you don’t clean your decking then it will attract dirt and grime. Next, take a broom and give the whole area a good and thorough sweep. When it comes to mould and algae, the best way to clean decking is with a ready to use a concentrated disinfectant treatment like Patio Magic! Handyman. Clean decking with soapy water It's also possible to clean decking with a basic soap solution. Pressure washers throw up a lot of muck, so move any garden furniture or pot plants out of harm’s way. For a quick and effective clean, use the Pro-Kleen 5 Litre Simply Spray & Walk Away Concentrate. Just secure the attachment and set the water pressure to a low level – take care here, as using too high a water pressure can damage the wooden surface, and decking wood that is roughened in this way can become brittle or even split. Last Updated: October 22, 2020 If you have spindles, steps, or any fancy woodwork do that too. An annual wash can breathe new life into your deck, preserve the integrity of the wood, and ultimately help to prevent costly repairs. Because decking comes in many different forms you might think cleaning it will be difficult especially if it is an anti-slip deck. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. How to clean your garden decking Step 1: Clean and prepare the area. Use the garden hose to spray in between the decking boards to clean away any remaining debris. He works with homeowners to make a wide variety of improvements to make their homes more comfortable and liveable. If your decking is suitable for cleaning with a pressure washer and a wash brush, you can get straight to work. Once the area is clean, rinse thoroughly with fresh water to remove all residue. Simply use a mix of washing-up liquid in warm water or go for half bleach and half warm water – both mixtures should be enough to deal with algae and mildew. Decking … Do not use a wire brush as that will thoroughly scratch your plastic decking. A decking cleaner and reviver is specially formulated to restore the wood back to its natural colour, reinvigorating the appearance of your deck. Let it sit for 15 minutes before rinsing off the deck with a hose. This way of cleaning is somewhat labour-intensive and takes some time. References If you hold the nozzle too closely to the deck, you will gouge the wood. There are 25 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. Ready To Use Spray. We know ads can be annoying, but they’re what allow us to make all of wikiHow available for free. It will clean the surface more effectively than you might think without damaging the finish. Cleaning Black Mold from Your Deck. Check your deck for insecure bannisters or split boards. It can also corrode metal fasteners such as screws and nails. Registration no: 10735156, Evergreen Garden Care (UK) Ltd,  {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/ce\/Clean-Decking-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Clean-Decking-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/ce\/Clean-Decking-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/aid1351324-v4-728px-Clean-Decking-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"