How to Clean a Deck Like a Pro (No Matter What Kind of Deck You Have)

Hire A Specialist to Clean Your Deck

Alright, before you start doing everything on your own, let's take a look at why it might be a better idea to have a specialist clean your deck. Depending on your location, you won't be able to get a good clean without a power washer. So that's reason #1. 

For instance, grit, silt, and sand that can wash up from a beach will get into the pits and pores of the concrete. And they are difficult to remove with regular detergents and cleaning agents. Not to mention, this residue can etch away the stone, leading to chips and other damage, which leads to an unsafe walking surface.

Bleach cleaning agents cannot clean away chlorine or other cleaning agents from around your deck. The chemicals will dry out the deck, making it prone to cracking. Also, the paint will start to dry, leading to chipping and peeling.

Using a professional power washer will ensure that your deck is damage-free while removing all of the unnecessary junk and chemicals that ruin your pool experience.

Also, a specialist is bound to recognize the stains and spots that you wouldn't. And even if you did, you wouldn't be able to get rid of them with regular appliances. A specialist has access to unique detergents and surfactants, which easily remove rust, paint, food, and other issues on your deck.



If you're interested in doing it yourself, but using specialized treatments that professionals use - check out our products.

How to Clean A Deck

Alright, before you start, it's important to note that the best way to mediate problems is to not have them occur. So sweep the deck at least once a week, then give it a proper cleaning with the following information every season.

Declutter

You should always begin by decluttering the locale around the deck. So get rid of chairs, grills, toys, etc. It's best to remove everything before you start so that you don't have to complete the job in two parts.

Inspect

Now you should begin by using a broom and clean the walls at which the deck is attached. Inspect the flashing where the connection occurs. If you see rot or loose screws, you should contact a contractor. 

Sweep

Then proceed to sweep the entire area of the deck. You should start with the railing, then move to the top. If you are able to access the undercarriage, do that as well.

Protect

In order to get a proper cleaning, you should cover any items in the immediate surrounding. As they can get damaged via cleaning agents and other parts of the process.

Cleaning Agent

By using one of the cleaning agents provided by our company, you ensure the best possible results for the removal of stains, cleaning, and sealing of your deck. But you can always use some sort of home cleaning agent. Just remember that the damage done might be irreparable.

Rinse

When you're finished following the instructions on your cleaning agents, you can proceed to rinse the deck multiple times. Rinse of the covering for the items that you were protecting.

Dry

And finally, you can allow the entirety of the deck and treatment area to dry. If you start to move items on the wood now, you might ruin it. Wet wood is malleable, so dragging a grill over it can do lots of harm. 

If You Have A Power Washer

Now, if you have a power washer, that's great. You're one of the lucky ones. In any case, the best time to power wash is in late spring. Do it on a sunny and warm day with low humidity, so that you don't get mold growth.

Same as the previous process, declutter and sweep the entirety of the treatment area. 

After this, you can use the lowest, capable pressure to blast away all of the stains and grime. Don't go too high with the pressure because you will damage your deck. Make sure you don't focus on a single spot for too long, because even a lower pressure can do harm when targeted at a point. Perform stead sweeping strokes and work outward.

Don't forget to keep distance, and lower the pressure when applying the water to vulnerable areas, such as railings. Work with the direction of the grain always. When you're done cleaning with the washer, let the deck dry for several days, because the wood will be significantly damper than the prior method.

If possible, sweep away all of the stagnant water on the surfaces. Now that everything is dry, make sure to check the seals and screws, to ensure nothing came out from the water.

Finally, A Clean Deck

Now that you discovered everything you need to know on how to clean a deck, you're well on your way to doing it yourself. As mentioned, if you don't possess the appropriate cleaning agents, you might as well hire somebody to do the job. 



But Layor Care Pool & Patio Protection makes it easy for you to get access to the most heavy-duty and potent cleaning agents on the market. And if you're unsure which of our products you will need for the job, get in touch with and we will happily accommodate your needs.