5 Steps to Clean Your Deck the Right Way

Posted by Ajay Garg on December 29th, 2022

Cleaning your deck can be one of the most satisfying maintenance tasks, but it demands attention to detail. The process must be thorough and done on a regular schedule for it to make a positive impact. Otherwise, you're just damaging your wood with improper cleaning methods. With that said, this post will dive into the steps needed to clean a deck properly. 

1. Sweep the Deck 

Sweeping the deck is an important part of deck cleaning. Remove loose debris such as sticks, leaves, and other detritus to ensure proper deck maintenance and a safe environment. Doing this improves the deck's overall longevity, prevents irritants from entering the deck area, and helps maintain its aesthetic appeal. Even if more than one sweep is needed, don't worry — sweeping can require multiple passes to clear out all foreign objects. Using a bristle broom allows for deep scrubbing and thorough cleaning without damaging the deck surface; it is recommended as the best tool to clean your deck. 

2. Clean the Deck With a Hose 

Qualified professionals can do the job for you if you need deck cleaning services. However, if you decide to tackle the chore yourself, using a hose is one of the best ways to start the process. A hose helps rinse dirt and other materials from the deck surface so that all unwanted particles can be power washed or scrubbed off during a deeper cleaning session. Hosing your deck can make restoring its original beauty and shine much easier after years of use. 

3. Use Soap and Water for Tougher Stains 

If you're looking for an effective way to clean your deck and leave it sparkling, soap and water provide the simplest solution. Deck cleaning services can help to take a lot of the elbow grease out of the equation and makes cleaning the deck faster, but you can still achieve great results on your own with a combination of soap and water. Use a gentle soapy liquid or powder specifically designed for deck cleaning to help remove stubborn stains while protecting your deck in the long run. For spots with tougher stains, use a brush or scrubber. 

4. Apply a Sealer or Stain Regularly 

Regularly applying a sealer or stain is important to keep your deck looking new, as professional deck cleaning services recommend. Sealing will help protect the wood from moisture and UV damage, preventing cracking, splintering, and warping. Applying the sealer or stain will take a little time but is worth it for lasting results. It also makes for an easier cleanup the next time. Regular sealing or staining of your deck will save you time and money in the long run by minimizing the need for more intensive procedures like sanding or replacing boards. 

5. Hire a Professional for an Annual Deep Cleaning 

One of the best ways to ensure your deck maintains its original beauty is to hire professional deck cleaning services for an annual deep cleaning. Professional deck-cleaning contractors are well-equipped with knowledge and specialized equipment, enabling them to clean away years of dirt, mold, and mildew. They have appropriate training and know exactly how to use professional-grade products to bring out the natural colors and protect the wood or composite material finish. Hiring a professional will also save time since they have the experience needed to do a thorough job. 

Conclusion 

Now that you know how to clean your deck correctly, it's time to start. Contact Precision Prowash KY for specialized cleaning and restoring of decks made from all types of wood. We'll be happy to help you pressure-wash your deck or stain it, so call us today.