Deck Cleaning

By Robert Robillard on Decks And Porches

roof deck

Cleaning A Wood Deck

Many people ask  what is a good way to safely clean a wood deck?  What is the best sealer to use once I have finished?

Many people think that using a pressure wash on their deck will re vitalize the wood.  What they don’t understand or know is that a high pressure stream of water will errode and can ruin a deck and introduce moisture problems as well.

Deck Cleaning Preparation

Wood deck surfaces need to be cleaned and sealed to keep them in good condition.  I recommend a wood bleach cleaner.

I’ve had excellent results by using a wood bleach.  My lumberyard stocks a product called Oxallic Wood Bleach.  This powdered product when mixed with water  is an excellent cleaner.

I mix the powdered wood  bleach with warm water and apply it with a bristle brush, letting it sit for 10 minutes then scrubbing  the deck clean.  Start with a wet deck and rinse with a garden hose.

As far as sealing the deck the best sealant is something that will penetrates into the wood and provide water repellant.  Products that create a film on the wood surface will eventually peel off.

Deck Cleaning Steps:

1.  Clean everything off the deck prior to deck cleaning

2.  Protect flowers and bushes underneath

3.  Sweep the deck clean before you wet it.

4.  Repair broken , loose boards and set any high nails.

5.  Mix your wood bleach, apply it,  and let it sit for 10 minutes

6.  Give the deck a thorough scrubbing.

7.  Let the deck dry a few days before applying a penetrating sealer.

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About the author

Robert Robillard

Carpenter / Remodeler / Editor

Rob Robillard is “The Concord Carpenter” Rob is a builder, general contractor, carpenter, woodworker, and editor of Concord Carpenter and ToolBoxBuzz As a General Contractor and carpenter, Rob owns and operates Concord Carpenter LLC. A full-service remodeling and construction company. Rob is a recognized leader in home building best practices and a source for how-to information for building professionals. On this website, Rob covers all aspects of home construction, building science, home improvement, woodworking, remodeling, and some of the best product and tool reviews. Rob is in charge of our Tool and Product Review series - Concord Carpenter Videos where we post all of our tool reviews and video tutorials. Rob approaches remodeling and building construction with a pragmatic and problem-solving approach. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help and educate building professionals as well as DIYers on best practices in the construction and remodeling industry. He's a strong advocate for "raising the bar" in the construction trades and promoting the trades to youth. #BeAMentor #Green2Great Craftsmanship, quality, and pride guide his journey on this channel The Concord Carpenter's motto: "Well done is better than well said!" : Read more about Rob

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