Best way to clean wood deck

[DKCDKC]

Too much bleach affects the quality of the wood I believe, and can bring up aggressive grain and splinters. I use a mild bleach mix with a wetting agent like TSP, let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse with a light, electric pressure sprayer. I let it dry several days then seal with a good sealer, not these cheap wax-based sealers. My decks usually last 5 or 6 years between sealings.

 

[Welshman]

I let it dry several days then seal with a good sealer, not these cheap wax-based sealers. My decks usually last 5 or 6 years between sealings.

I'm in the process of refurbing my decks now. Can you recommend a specific product?

 

[TNhobbyfarmer]

Roll up your pant legs, get a Holystone, and a bucket of salt water.

Get down on your knees and start working the deck with the Holystone. Then wash with the salt water. Worked wonder's for many a Navy Ship as well as private ones.:thumbsup:

Gee Egon. You sound like a crusty old Navy Chief. I'm not looking for that much work. Haven't you heard of the modern conveniences?

 

[Domush]

Tip: OxyClean is just hydrogen peroxide, so you may get it cheaper by just buying some bottles at the dollar store.

Another Tip: Adding a cup of hydrogen peroxide to the bleach cup in your laundry helps keep your colors.. colored and has the same stain fighting properties as oxyclean, without the fillers or price tag.

 

[Artisan]

I vote for JUST a pressure washer, no chemicals no muss little fuss.

 

[JDgreen227]

I vote for JUST a pressure washer, no chemicals no muss little fuss.

A pressure washer is a must, but the bigger 3000 psi ones can cause damage of you don't use care. I like using a solution of 40% bleach, 60% water, with a LOT of powdered laundry soap mixed in. The soap really helps with the cleaning, it doesn't have to be any special kind, buy the cheapest you can.

I use the mix in a large flat tub, scrub it in with a long handled stiff bristle brush, and let it sit for about 5 minutes before using the power washer.