6 Alternative Ways To Clean A Deck Without A Power Washer

Step 2: Spray With Soapy Water & Scrub

This ensures the spray is not concentrated enough to damage the deck’s surface. If the stain or material is unusual, this cleaning method might not remove the stain.

Premixed Vs Concentrated Deck Cleaners

Keep this guide in mind as you begin prepping to clean your composite deck. A power washer can be used for RINSING ONLY with TimberTech Deck or Porch. Spray in the direction of the grain pattern, never across the grain, to avoid damaging the product. Baking soda as a soft scrub is also very good for cleaning your barbecue grill. Again, simply use it as a scrubbing powder with the coarse bristled brush or steel wool to remove tough, cooked on grit and grime. In this article, we’ll look at 7 smart ways you can use the safe, simple, all-purpose cleaner – baking soda to get your deck or patio area fresh and clean and keep it that way. Letting damp organic debris build up on your deck can also leave stains and create the perfect environment for mold to grow.

Can I Seal Composite Decking?

Do not cut any product and always remove job site dust, clay, dirt, mud, and other construction products from an TimberTech Deck, Rail, and Porch quickly. Do not allow construction dirt and debris to sit on the TimberTech Deck, Rail, or Porch surface. Do not cut metal objects such as railing on the deck surface, the hot debris from the cut may become embedded in the deck surface resulting in staining and damage. A power washer can be used for RINSING ONLY with TimberTech products. Spray in the direction of the grain pattern, never across the grain or width of the board, to avoid damaging the product. Use caution not to damage the material and always take proper safety precautions when operating a power washer. Using the incorrect brush can make cleaning more difficult or even damage the deck board.

• In order to best maintain the surface of your composite deck railing, avoid any products that have acetone and other kinds of solvents, as they will alter the color of the railing.
• We try not to play favorites with our products but there’s no denying that Spray & Clean is one of our stars.
• This can be done by diluting 4 parts water with 1-part Spray & Clean and spraying your deck every 60 days or so during the season.
• You can also spray an hour or two before an oncoming rain storm which is a perfect way to rinse your deck naturally.
• We’re going to start with this product which you can buy at WashSafe.com.

Next, pour the solution on mold which is found on the surface of the composite deck. After scrubbing the surface of your composite deck for some time, rinse your deck using clean water. This step is very important because if the dirty water used in scrubbing is left to dry, a thin film may form on the surface of the deck. Vinegar – This is safe for both wood and composite decks. Just mix half a cup of apple cider vinegar or white vinegar to a gallon of water and ¼ cup of baking soda. Warm water – This can be used alone to clean and wash a composite deck. Don’t rely on semi-annual cleanings to remove grease stains from your Trex decking.

front deck in Canberra is cedar and I am so sick of scrubbing, brightening lightning, cleaning, oiling and sanding! I put composite in the back and I've been a little better." Use oxalic acid on rust stains and other stubborn spots. Deck brightener products will also work on these tougher stains. Sweep the deck and apply the product directly to the stain. Saturate the area and allow it to sit on the stain for about 15 minutes.

Use a deck brightener than contains oxalic acid on tannin stains. Water spots, also known as tannin stains, are normal occurrences on wood. Over time, you will likely start to notice some on your deck. Make sure the surface is completely dry and then apply a deck brightener product that contains oxalic acid on the surface of your deck.

Removing Stains

Thoroughly rinse with fresh water to remove all soap residue. Lightly mist the entire deck with a garden hose to keep the wood wet. Clean grease stains with a mild detergent or a TSP cleaner. Use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the wood planks and then rinse thoroughly, making sure always to spray the same direction as the wood’s grain to prevent damaging your deck. Neglecting your wooden deck leads to mold and mildew problems, along with cracked or splintered wood and permanent stains. By learning how to how to clean your deck for staining and other purposes, you will be able to spot problems as they occur, allowing you to take action sooner rather than later.

How To Avoid Mold And Mildew Growth

Liberally saturate the deck by dipping the brush into the homemade cleaning solution and sloshing it over the planks. Starting at one end and working your way to the other, scrub with the brush to work up a light lather, rewetting the brush’s bristles as needed. Give the solution 15 minutes of dwell time to allow the oxygen bleach to work. I did the oxyclean and vinegar with hot water it works well especially when accompanied by a stiff brush and power water.

For the best practices on power washing your deck, see chapter 3 below. While mildew and mold can infiltrate and ruin a wooden deck, it can’t damage a composite deck. They look unsightly on your deck, but it won’t harm or ruin the composite structure. In this article, we cover everything you need to know and do to clean your composite deck and porch safely. Feel free to read through the article, or simply click the chapter relating to your cleaning question. Gently brush the whole deck, applying more pressure where you notice stubborn stains or grime build-up.