{"id":2385,"date":"2022-07-20T10:13:06","date_gmt":"2022-07-20T14:13:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/trexprotect.com\/uk\/?p=2385"},"modified":"2024-04-23T13:39:21","modified_gmt":"2024-04-23T17:39:21","slug":"how-to-clean-your-deck-the-right-way","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/trexprotect.com\/uk\/blog\/how-to-clean-your-deck-the-right-way\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Clean Your Deck the Right Way"},"content":{"rendered":"

Cleaning time is here, and while many homeowners focus on scuffed baseboards, dust bunnies, and smudgy windows around the house, it\u2019s important to also remember the deck. Throughout the past year, your deck surface has faced many challenges: summer hot dogs rolled off the grill, fall leaves turned into tiny bits of grime in the crevices between deck boards, and winter weather assaulting your timber or composite decking.<\/p>\n

Now\u2019s the time for a refresh. We\u2019ve got your guide to cleaning your deck the right way, just in time for warmer weather.<\/p>\n

How to Clean Your Deck<\/h2>\n

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Cleaning a deck doesn\u2019t have to be difficult or time-consuming, but it is essential in making it last. While the steps are simple \u2014 remove anything on the deck, sweep, and clean \u2014 you will want to be sure you\u2019re doing it right.<\/p>\n

Deck Cleaning Solutions and Materials Needed<\/h2>\n

To prepare for your deck cleaning, gather a broom, scrub brush, bucket, garden hose, and cleaning solution.<\/p>\n

Be sure to use cleaning products and materials that won\u2019t harm your deck \u2014 or you. Never mix ammonia-based ingredients with bleach, which can create toxic chloramine gas that can cause respiratory irritation.<\/p>\n

Instead, purchase a cleaning solution specially made for your timber or composite deck. Check out product options in your local hardware store.<\/p>\n

What is the Best Homemade Deck Cleaner?<\/h2>\n

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If you want to mix up something yourself, go for an eco-friendly solution that\u2019s right for your deck material.<\/p>\n

For a timber deck:<\/strong> Use 29.5 ml of ammonia-free liquid dish soap, 3.8 litre of water, 470 ml of rubbing alcohol, and .95 litre of oxygen bleach (for example., OxiClean, found in the laundry detergent aisle at the grocery store). The oxygen bleach is safe on timber decks and helps in removing mould. Avoid chlorine bleach.<\/p>\n

For a composite deck:<\/strong> Combine 120 ml of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar with 6000 ml of baking soda with 3.8 litre of water. Swab this mixture on the entire deck and rinse well with clean water.<\/p>\n

Avoid homemade deck cleaners or brighteners when using a pressure washer or power washer. Because of the tiny nozzles on the sprayer, any granular cleaner will clog the nozzle.<\/p>\n

What is the Best Way to Clean Decking?<\/h2>\n

As already mentioned, the best way to clean decking depends on whether you have timber or composite boards. However, there are six basic steps for cleaning all decks.\"\"<\/p>\n

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  1. Remove<\/strong> all furniture, plants, and d\u00e9cor off the deck. Removing everything provides an excellent opportunity to visually inspect all of your decking to look for warping, discolouration, and spongy boards. Replace any rotten timber<\/a>, tap in any popped screws, and tighten any loose fasteners.<\/li>\n
  2. Sweep<\/strong> off the deck boards. Over time, debris will accumulate on top of your deck, which you need to remove as it can stain and hold in moisture. Use a putty knife or screwdriver to remove stubborn bits from between the boards.<\/li>\n
  3. Pre-rinse.\u00a0<\/strong>This step allows the cleaner to be dispersed more easily.<\/li>\n
  4. Clean<\/strong> with a solution geared to the kind of deck you have (timber or composite).<\/li>\n
  5. Rinse the deck\u00a0<\/strong>thoroughly so you don\u2019t leave behind a film or build-up. Hold the hose about 152 mm – 305 mm above the surface of the deck and spray a few feet in front of you. The water stream should be just strong enough to wash away dirt and debris. Never use high pressure, which can damage your timber’s decking and splinter.<\/li>\n
  6. Seal<\/strong> timber decking with stain with sealant or a clear sealant to prevent further damage. It\u2019s easiest to use a long-handled paint roller or sponge applicator. Sanding before sealing may help the product to penetrate the timber more deeply.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    A few helpful notes:<\/p>\n