Decking is a fantastic addition to any garden, but it needs extra care and attention to keep it looking its best. Luckily, deck maintenance doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right deck cleaning products, you can completely transform the appearance of your decking - and keep it functional for years to come.
Whether your deck is looking a bit worse for wear or you simply want to spruce up your patio for summer, we’ve got you covered! Our handy guide will show you how to clean garden decking effectively in a few easy steps.
When to clean your decking
Since your deck is exposed to the elements year-round, regular maintenance is key to its longevity. If you want to keep your decking in tip-top shape, give it a thorough cleaning at least once per year.
An annual wash can breathe new life into your deck, preserve the integrity of the wood, and ultimately help to prevent costly repairs.
How to clean garden decking in five simple steps
Step 1: clear and prepare the area
Start by clearing everything from the surface of your deck. Remove anything that might get in your way – from large patio furniture to small potted plants and everything in between
Next, grab a Wolf Garten Decking brush (SB350M) and give the entire area a thorough sweep. Brush away dust and leaves, and pay particular attention to any nooks and crannies where debris can collect.
Step 2: hose or pressure wash
Use a pressure washer or garden hose to loosen and rinse away any dirt or grime. Aim the sprayer directly at heavily soiled spots to remove as much debris as possible.
Just remember: if you’re using a pressure washer, this step needs to be done with great care. A pressure washer can quickly damage the wood if used too closely, making it even harder to clean or treat. Choose the lowest setting and leave at least a few feet between the spray nozzle and the surface of your deck.
Once you’ve addressed the most problematic areas, be sure to spray in between the decking boards to rinse away any remaining twigs, leaves or grass.
Step 3: scrub and rinse
To avoid damaging your decking, create a gentle cleaning solution with warm water and liquid dish soap. Alternatively, you can use a speciality wood deck cleaner.
Saturate the surface and scrub the deck with a stiff-bristled brush or sponge until the cleaning solution starts to lather. Let mixture stand for 5 to 10 minutes (or follow the instructions on the deck cleaner label).
Lastly, rinse with clean water and leave the deck to dry.
Step 4: treat mould and algae
When it comes to mould and algae, the best way to clean decking is with a ready to use a concentrated disinfectant treatment.
Simply spray the treatment onto affected areas and let it dry. There’s no need to pressure wash or scrub beforehand, so it’s the perfect way to revitalise and maintain your deck with minimal effort.
Step 5: reseal
It’s always a good idea to reseal the deck after you give it a deep clean. Some sealers may include a waterproofing agent or mildew protection, so be sure to explore your options and find the best product for your deck.
Sweep the deck once more to remove any dirt or dust that may have accumulated while it was drying. Then, apply the sealer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Let the sealant coat dry fully before moving furniture and accessories back onto the deck.
These tips will ensure your deck is looking spotless and summer-ready in no time!