Washing a wood or composite deck is a job that should be done at least once a year to keep it well maintained and looking great. It’s best to wash either type of deck in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the afternoon sun which can cause cleaners to evaporate before they can be rinsed. For both types of decking, start by clearing everything off the deck and cover any nearby plants that could get damaged. Sweep the entire deck with a stiff broom to remove leaves, debris and the build up of dirt.
Composite
Composite decking has fewer maintenance requirements so the job will be much simpler and faster. The easiest way is to use a power washer, on a low setting, in the direction of the grain, then against the grain. The force of the power washer should remove most dirt. For tougher areas, use a mild liquid detergent or specific composite deck cleaner and rinse with clear water when done. Alternatively, you can use a deck brush with liquid detergent or cleaner and again, scrub in the direction of the grain, then against the grain. You may have to scrub twice in tough areas. Then do a final rinse with a high pressure hose and clear water. If your deck is large, you may have to clean and rinse in sections so that the cleaner doesn’t dry.
Wood
How dirty your wood deck is will determine how you will begin to wash it. For a very dirty deck, start with a deck cleaner and follow the manufacturer directions, then rinse with a high pressure hose or a pressure washer on low setting. Be very careful not to damage the wood surface with the pressure washer. A damaged surface will appear fuzzy and will require an extra step of sanding. For decks that don’t have a lot of dirt, scrub the deck with a deck brush and mild liquid detergent, then rinse with a high pressure hose. While the deck is still wet from washing, use a wood brightener and follow the manufacturer’s directions. The wood brightener brings out the woods natural beauty and provides a better surface to accept the final stain or sealer. Thoroughly rinse off the wood brightener with a high pressure hose. When the deck is completely dry, finish the job by applying a wood stain or sealer.
Visit your local TIMBER MART for all the cleaning supplies and tools you need to keep your deck in top shape!
