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Deck Cleaning
Basic Cleaning Recommendations
Most deck-cleaning products will work. For best results, use a cleaner that contains any of the following as an active ingredient for general cleaning and follow the manufacturer’s instruction for use:
- Phosphoric Acid
- Oxalic Acid
- Hydrochloric Acid
- Sodium Hypochlorite
Power washing will enhance results when cleaning your deck, 1500psi is the recommended maximum. A fan tip nozzle should be used along with the proper cleaning product. Spray in the direction of the brush/grain pattern to avoid damaging your decking. Use caution not to damage the material and always take the proper safety precautions when operating a power washer.
Spot Stains
Oil Eater Cleaner and Degreaser is very effective against oil, grease and other stains. For extra heavy oil and grease stains or other specific stain types, check with your local lumberyard, hardware stores or home centers for cleaners applicable to a specific stain type. If stains have set, you may want to use fine sandpaper and sand lightly, following the wood grain finish of the plank. The sanded area will weather back in approximately 8-10 weeks.
Ice and Snow
If you reside in a cold weather climate where ice and snow periodically come in contact with your deck, use calcium chloride or rock salt to melt the ice and snow.
Rust, Ground-in Dirt and Grime
Use a cleaner that contains Phosphoric Acid or Oxalic Acid. Follow manufacturer's application instructions. If the stains have set, you may use fine sandpaper and sand lightly followed by a wire brush to re-grain the decking. Always follow the wood grain finish of the plank. The sanded area will weather back in approximately 8-10 weeks but can very depending on location and specific application.
Painting/Staining/Sealing
Wait approximately 8-10 weeks or until the deck has completed its weathering process before painting or staining. Clean your deck prior to applying paint or stain. Never paint or stain over surfaces that may contain dirt, or mildew.
Best results will be obtained when using a high-quality paint or solid color stain. Be sure paint or stain does not clog drain holes in the Planks. Once the deck is painted, stained or sealed, subsequent applications will be necessary to maintain appearance. Always apply paints and sealers in accordance with the manufacturer's application instructions.
Mildew
Wash your deck periodically with a cleaner that contains or is mixed with Sodium Hypochlorite. Follow the manufacturer’s application instructions. Use a stiff brush to scrub heavily stained surfaces following the grain.
Rinse off your deck periodically with a hose. Even if your deck appears clean, it is important to prevent build-up of pollen/debris. Mildew stains may occur where moisture, pollens, and/or dirt are present. Mildew needs a food source to grow, which can be grass, pollens, dirt, debris, wood and wood resins.
Maintaining a clean, dry deck surface is the best method for combating mildew. Ensure that water drains effectively from your deck. Keeping weep holes clear and unclogged on planks.