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Deck Cleaning

flat 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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