Cleaning a Wood Deck

Prep the deck: Remove any furniture, pots, or other items from the deck surface to have a clear working area. Use a broom or a leaf blower to remove loose dirt, leaves, and debris from the deck surface. Check the deck for any signs of damage, such as loose boards or nails. Make any necessary repairs before proceeding with the cleaning.

Choose the right day: Opt for a cool, overcast day for deck cleaning. Avoid cleaning the deck in direct sunlight as it can cause cleaning agents to dry too quickly, reducing their effectiveness. If your deck is close to plants or grass, consider covering them with plastic sheeting to protect them from potential damage caused by cleaning solutions. Some plants are very sensitive, and this part is crucial to do when there is little or no sunlight. If the sun is out in full force, it could literally bake tarped plants.

Select a cleaning solution: There are several options for deck cleaning solutions. You can use a commercial deck cleaner available at hardware stores or make your own by mixing equal parts of water and oxygen bleach (sodium percarbonate). Avoid using chlorine bleach, as it can damage the wood fibers and harm nearby vegetation. Simple Green is the solution we recommend at Pristine Clean. It’s perfect for getting off tough stains, dirt, and algae, but it’s easy and safe to work with.

Apply the cleaning solution: Following the manufacturer’s instructions or your homemade solution’s guidelines, apply the cleaner evenly on the deck. You can use a brush or a pump sprayer to do this. Ensure the deck surface remains wet with the solution for the recommended time (usually around 10-15 minutes) to allow it to break down grime and algae. Use a stiff-bristled brush or a deck brush to scrub the surface, focusing on heavily soiled or stained areas. Work in the direction of the wood grain to avoid damaging the fibers.

Rinse thoroughly: After scrubbing, thoroughly rinse the deck with a garden hose or a pressure washer on the lowest setting. Make sure to remove all of the cleaning solution to prevent residue buildup. We always say, when you think you are done rinsing, rinse it once more! Getting all the solution off the deck is important for allowing it to dry properly. Allow the deck to air dry completely before replacing furniture and other items. Avoid walking on the wet deck to prevent any dirt from sticking to it.