A clean deck is the cornerstone of any outdoor living space. It allows you to entertain family and friends, relax on a warm summer night or simply enjoy your home’s natural beauty.
A regular Deck Cleaning Charleston SC routine is the best way to keep your deck looking its very best. This includes removing debris, killing mildew, and maintaining non-slip treatments.
Debris such as leaves, twigs, or mold can get trapped in between deck boards. It is important to remove this debris promptly because it will not only stain the deck but can also contribute to premature rot and weaken the boards. Sweeping the deck with a broom will help to loosen the dirt, but to be sure that all the debris is removed use a plastic putty knife to reach into the cracks. It is a good idea to wear rubber gloves and eye protection when using this tool as it can be very hard on your hands.
Once the deck is swept it is ready for the cleaning solution to be applied. A good quality deck cleaner is specially formulated to be safe for composite and wood decks. Before applying the cleaner make sure to follow all instructions for use as they will vary according to the brand of product. Always test the cleaner on a small section of the deck surface to ensure that it will not damage or discolor the material.
If you choose to use a natural cleaning product such as white vinegar, soap and water or baking soda it is important to apply the solution gently. This will allow the cleaner to do its job without damaging the wood or causing any harm to the surrounding garden and earth. It is not a good idea to use chlorine bleach as this can damage the wood and lighten its color.
In order to achieve the best results when using a natural product it is a good idea to scrub the deck in small sections and to work with a stiff bristled brush. This will help to prevent the spread of the cleaning solution and to make it easier to clean. Once you have finished scrubbing it is important to rinse the deck with a garden hose to remove all of the cleaning solution and any residual dirt. This will leave the deck clean, fresh and ready for your spring and summer outdoor activities.
Pre-Rinse
Every homeowner knows that a clean deck is a strong deck – one that will stand up to the elements and the test of time. So, it’s important that you clean your deck on a regular basis to keep it looking great. While it might be a bit of work to clear away debris and old cleaning solutions, it is worth the effort if you want your deck to last for years to come. Having a clean deck will also help it look its best and be the place that your family and friends enjoy being together.
Before you begin cleaning your deck, take a good look at it to determine what needs to be done. If you have a lot of dirt, dust and debris that has collected on the deck, start by sweeping it off. You can use a broom with bristle or wire attachments to get in between the boards. Then, you will need to rinse off the deck using a garden hose with a spray setting.
Next, make sure you protect the plants and flowers around your deck, as some commercial cleaners can damage or stain them. Then, choose a day that is cloudy for deck cleaning, as the sun will not dry up the cleaner as quickly. Finally, gather your tools and supplies for deck cleaning. This includes a broom, scrub brush, bucket, garden hose and a cleaning solution that is suited to the type of decking you have (timber or composite). Be sure to wear gloves as some homemade cleaners, such as Borax, can cause skin irritation.
Before you apply your homemade or store-bought deck cleaner, dip a broom into the solution and scrub it over the entire surface of the deck. Be careful not to miss any spots that may have stains, as they can be harder to remove than other areas. Once you have a clean deck, you can hose it down again to rinse off the soap and dirty water that has been scrubbing into the wood. Be sure to use a low pressure setting when washing your deck, as too much pressure can force the wood to absorb too much water, which can then lead to cracking and warping of the boards.
Cleaning
A well-designed deck can be a wonderful place to entertain guests or relax on warm summer evenings. However, like any outdoor extension of your home, your deck can become a magnet for a variety of environmental elements that contribute to a buildup of dirt, grime, and mildew. Regular sweeping and cleaning can prevent these elements from becoming a problem and help your deck look its best.
For a light clean, a garden hose with a spray nozzle can effectively rinse away dirt and debris from most surfaces. For severe stains and a deeper clean, a deck cleaner should be used. It is important to use a non-toxic cleaner and follow the manufacturer’s directions for proper usage. Many cleaners are corrosive and can damage if they come into contact with metal fasteners, nails, or screws. Also, be careful not to use cleaners that contain chlorine bleach (sodium hypochlorite) on treated wood, as this can damage and discolor the surface of your deck.
Regardless of what type of cleaner you are using, be sure to apply the product in small sections at a time. This will ensure that the cleaning solution does not dry before you are able to scrub it off. After applying the cleaner, let it sit for the period of time recommended by the manufacturer and then thoroughly scrub the deck. It is recommended to scrub parallel with the wood grain whenever possible to avoid damaging the deck surface. Once the deck is cleaned, it should be thoroughly rinsed with water to remove any residue from the wood.
It is always a good idea to clean the deck prior to staining. This will provide a much cleaner and healthier surface to work with and will increase the life of your new deck stain. It is important not to skip this step as doing so can cause the new stain to saturate the wood, which can lead to peeling and other problems. For the best results, it is recommended to hire a professional who has experience cleaning and staining decks. This will ensure that the stain is applied evenly and that the deck is fully protected.
Final Rinse
A final rinse with a garden hose is a necessary step in deck cleaning, especially on wood. It allows for a full, thorough wash and removes all the soapy residue that would otherwise remain on the surface.
Use a soft spray setting to avoid damaging the decking or causing puddles. Work in the direction of the grain and rinse until the foamy lather is gone.
Rinse the entire deck and railing, using a soft spray setting. This will help prevent puddles and the possibility of staining or splintering. Let the deck dry and then re-stain or seal, if desired. For best results, sweep the deck, pre-rinse and clean with a cleaner geared for your type of deck (timber or composite).