Wood Deck Maintenance Essentials - Wood Deck Cleaning Tips
A Clean Wood Deck is Inviting and Fresh
Wood Deck Cleaning: Clean Your Wood Deck with a Deck Wash
Commercial deck wash cleaners suitable for using on a wood deck can be found at most home improvement and paint stores. You can also make your own deck cleaning solution by using one part of bleach and mixing with three parts of dish detergent.
If using a commercial cleaner for your wood deck cleaning project, be sure to carefully follow the instructions on the cleaner. Before using the cleaner, sweep your deck. To prevent the deck cleaner from getting on your siding, use cardboard or plastic to cover the base of the siding.
Once the deck has been swept off and the siding surface protected, you are ready to clean your wood deck. A deck sprayer is recommended for applying the deck wash onto your wood deck. Deck sprayers are available at most home improvement stores or you can find deck wash that hooks directly to a hose for easy washing and cleaning of your wood deck.
Leave the wood deck cleaner on for 5 to 10 minutes or for the time specified on the commercial deck wash you are using. Then rinse completely. Go over the surface with a broom and rinse again. Allow your wooden deck to dry completely before applying any stain or waterproof sealant.
Wood Deck Cleaning Tip #2: Keeping Your Wood Deck Clean
After carefully cleaning your wood deck and reapplying a stain or waterproof sealant, a few simple steps can help your wood deck looking its best throughout the year. To help keep your wood deck clean, sweep the surface weekly or as time allows. Gently sweeping off the surface of your wood deck will help keep the build-up of dirt and dust to a minimum.
If you notice any dirt or mildew spots on the surface of your wood deck, take an old soft toothbrush and use a dab of dish soap to gently scrub the spot. Rinse with the area thoroughly with water.
If you live in an area with frequent winter snows, shovel off excess snow from the deck. This will help protect the deck from excess water and dirt build-up when the snow begins to melt in the spring.
With a few simple steps you can keep your wood deck looking great. Proper cleaning of your wood deck and careful application of stain or water repellant will protect the beauty and integrity of your wood deck for years of enjoyment.
Published by Wendy Roltgen
An experienced freelance writer specializing in web copy, catalog copy, direct mail, sales and marketing literature, training manuals, and newsletters. View profile
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