Deck Cleaning Charleston SC is essential to a beautiful outdoor space. Regularly scheduled maintenance will prevent dirt and grime buildup, but stubborn spots require expert-grade solutions.
Using a hose and bucket can be time-consuming, but power washing is a much more efficient way to clean. It also allows you to wash hard-to-reach areas and remove tough stains, like mildew or algae, that can’t be removed with a scrub brush.
While spring cleaning might be all about exterminating the dust bunnies under your sofa or cleaning the inside of your refrigerator, it’s also time to start focusing on the exterior of your home. This includes a thorough cleaning of your deck. A clean deck is not only a great place for friends and family to gather, but it can also add to the overall look of your property.
To prepare for deck cleaning, first sweep the entire area to remove all loose dirt and debris from the surface of your deck and in the nooks and crannies between the boards. Then move on to removing furniture, plants, rugs, and other items that are currently sitting on the deck. Make sure you clear the deck completely before moving on to the next step — this will allow you to get a good look at what is actually under the surface and what might need attention in the future, such as rotting boards or nails.
Once your deck is cleared, it’s time to spray it down. Using a garden hose or pressure washer with a low to medium setting, you can rinse off the entire deck and remove any remaining dust. This will also give you a chance to see what sort of damage your deck has sustained over the winter and what kind of care it needs before moving on to deeper cleaning.
For a deeper clean, you can use either a commercial mold and mildew cleaner or make your own homemade cleaning solution with one gallon of water mixed with one tablespoon of liquid dish soap or vinegar. If you are using a commercial cleaner, be sure to read the label to find out what kinds of surfaces it can be used on and to test it in an inconspicuous area of your deck.
It’s important to keep your pressure washer at a safe distance from the surface you are cleaning so as not to etch the wood or cause other forms of damage. Also be sure to wear eye protection and gloves while working on your deck to avoid any potential injuries.
Preparing the Surface
Once you’ve cleared your deck of tables, chairs and potted plants, use a stiff broom to sweep away debris. Sweeping is essential for a complete cleaning, so you can be sure to get the dirt in between each board as well as any caked-on stains. This is particularly important since those hard-to-reach areas are usually where mold and mildew grow. It’s also a good idea to trim any nearby bushes or trees. They should be at least 12 inches away from the deck to help prevent moisture absorption, which can lead to rot and discoloration.
The next step is determining what type of cleaner to use. Ideally, a natural solution that is safe for your type of deck should be used. Vinegar, for instance, can work wonders on wood decks, and baking soda can tackle stains that are tough to scrub. Chemical solutions like diluted chlorine bleach, trisodium phosphate and commercial deck cleaners are also effective. Just be sure to read the labels and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
A power washer is another useful tool for tackling stubborn stains. However, be careful not to overuse it, as high pressure can damage the wood fibers of a stained deck. Instead, opt for a lower psi setting and a fan-type nozzle to avoid damaging the deck surface.
Be sure to rinse the deck after applying cleaner and scrubbing it thoroughly. Rinsing is also crucial to ensure that the cleaner doesn’t dry onto the deck. If you’re worried about your water usage, consider using a sprayer that can be controlled with a sensor.
A tack cloth can be useful for removing any remaining dust particles and residue. An air blower with a nozzle attachment can also be used for this purpose.
Finally, make sure the deck is completely dry before staining. Standing water can prolong drying times and hinder the new finish’s ability to adhere properly. To speed up the process, a squeegee or mop can be used to remove excess moisture. The best option, however, is to allow the deck to air dry naturally by exposing it to sunlight and open air.
Cleaning the Surface
Every deck needs cleaning regularly to remove unsightly stains from mildew, mold, and algae. Regular cleaning can also prevent slippery surfaces, reducing the risk of injuries and accidents for your guests. Generally, soap and water or a specially-formulated cleaner will do the trick for most wood or composite decks. For heavily-soiled areas, a brush and hard-bristled broom can be used to scrub away the mess.
If using a power washer, be sure to use it with a low pressure setting to avoid damaging the surface. Start washing in an inconspicuous area of the deck to test the pressure level and adjust it as needed. For optimal results, hold the nozzle at a consistent distance from the deck surface (typically 6 to 12 inches) and move in the direction of the wood grain. A rotating tip or wide fan nozzle attachment is ideal for covering larger areas quickly and hiding any spray marks that might occur as you clean.
Vinegar is an effective natural cleaner for most wood decks, but it should only be used if diluted and not allowed to soak into the surface. It will kill the mold, but if it is left to soak into the decking, it can leach the color out of the wood fibers. For best results, you should always use a cleaner recommended for your specific decking material.
When washing your deck, be sure to scrub each section thoroughly, removing all visible dirt and residue. Scrub in the direction of the wood grain to keep the boards looking natural when finished.
After you’ve scrubbed and washed the surface, rinse the deck with a power washer until all visible debris is removed. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the power washer and a specific nozzle type to avoid damage to the decking surface.
Allow the deck to dry completely before replacing furniture and other objects on the surface. This will take several hours or even a full day, depending on the weather conditions. During this time, avoid walking on the deck to prevent slips and falls.
Post-Cleaning Maintenance
After cleaning, it’s important to allow the deck to dry completely before resealing or staining. This step removes any residual cleaner that may be trapped in the crevices of the boards, and it also ensures that the surface is free from contaminants that can prevent the stain or sealant from bonding with the wood. Once the deck is dry, you can use a hose with the jet setting to thoroughly rinse it. Make sure to scrub the surface while rinsing, using the direction of the wood grain for best results. If you used a chemical cleaner, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dilution and rinsing.
Regular deck maintenance is key to keeping it looking its best. Cleaning products formulated for your type of deck are available for both wood and composite decks, making it easy to keep your outdoor space pristine year-round.
For wood decks, a wood-safe detergent can tackle most stains and debris. Bleach-based cleaners are typically not recommended, however, as excessive use can strip the color from treated wood and leave it with an unnatural whitewash. If you prefer to avoid chlorine bleach altogether, try oxygen bleach instead – this natural solution is effective against algae, mildew, and dirt stains without damaging the wood fibers.
If a stubborn stain remains, a bit of elbow grease and a little baking soda can go a long way. Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a cup of vinegar and water to form a powerful cleaning solution that’s safe for your stained deck. Use the mixture to scour away fossilized dirt, food stains, bird droppings, and more.
When you’re ready to wash your deck, start in a safe area and orient the nozzle of your hose away from people or glass windows. Use a low PSI and a rotating or fan tip nozzle to minimize the risk of damage to your deck or property.
While it’s impossible to eliminate all stains and spills, mastering the right cleaning methods can keep your wood or composite deck in top shape through every party and season. Achieve professional-grade results with a little planning and the proper tools.