While pressure washers are certainly useful, sometimes a gentler approach is required – particularly where decking is involved. Here, an expert shares some great pointers on how best to safely clean your outside seating area
Pressure washers are great for speeding up cleaning, but sometimes the more traditional methods work best – particularly where decking is involved.
This is because the strong jets of water can expose weaknesses in the wood, causing it to crack or splinter. Plus using a pressure washer uses a lot more water too, making it take longer for your decking to dry out.
With the recent wet weather, your outside flooring can often gain unsightly marks or become slippery from a build-up of algae and moss. But now the sun’s out, it’s a great time to give it a new lease of life.
Here, Steven Walley, decking expert from London Stone, shares some tips ‘n’ tricks on getting your decking looking its best.
Should you pressure wash decking?
While your decking can be cleaned with a pressure washer, Steven advises a gentler approach is best. Steven says: “An easy alternative to using a pressure washer is using a solution of washing up liquid and hot water to clean your decking and remove mild stains.”
Before you use the solution, he advises you prep the area first. He says: “It’s important to clean your decking when it’s dry, so make sure it has fully dried out if it has been raining. Once ready, clear the area from any plant pots and use a broom to remove loose debris and leaves off the surface.
“Once you’ve prepped the area, squeeze washing up liquid into a bucket and add hot water before mopping the solution onto the deck. Use a bristled brush to lather the solution and scrub thoroughly to lift the grime, making sure to brush in the direction of the grain on the decking, as this will make it easier. Rinse the solution off with a hose on a light setting before allowing it to dry. You can repeat the process if needed.”
How to clean decking with a pressure washer
While it is advised not to use a pressure washer, it can be done as long as you take necessary precaution. Steven warns: “If you have a particularly large decking area, you might want to use a pressure washer. However, wooden decking can expand when soaked in water, which can cause it to split so it’s important to take precaution when using a pressure washer. While composite decking does not absorb water as easily, the high pressure can cause the outer layer of the decking to chip and scar.”
Steven advises: “Always use the low-pressure setting and make sure to start with a test patch in the corner of your decking so that if you need to make adjustments to the pressure, you can do so without damaging the main area of your decking.
“Aim to keep the nozzle around six inches away from the surface and avoid changing the power settings throughout the cleaning process to avoid obvious marks. Make sure to move in the same direction as the grain on the wood or composite deck, using a steady and consistent speed to create an even wash.
What are the best cleaning products for decking?
Steven adds: “If your decking is particularly dirty and has a large build-up of moss and algae, you might need a stronger cleaning solution. Baking soda is a good cleanser for your composite decking without ruining it, as it’s not harsh. Sprinkle some baking soda on the decking before using a soft bristle brush to rub in and rinse with water.
“Vinegar is also safe to use on decking, as long as it is not undiluted. Mix half a cup of white vinegar with a gallon of water and pour onto your decking to soak for 5-10 minutes before using a cloth or bush to give it a scrub.”
