Here’s How to Care for Your Backyard Deck

Annual Deep Cleaning

Pressure washing your wood deck can give it a new lease on life, but it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s directions to prevent damage. In most cases it’s advisable to pressure wash your deck with a fan spray nozzle at low intensity, with constant, sweeping strokes at least three feet from the surface. Use a good mould remover on stubborn mould, mildew, and algae.

Spring Deck Inspection

Check your deck thoroughly once a year to make sure it’s safe and structurally sound. Repair or replace any broken, damaged or rotted deck boards, joists and support posts. Make sure the stairs and deck railings are secure, and check for rusted screws and anchors that may need replacing.

Before You Clean

Remove deck furniture and potted plants before doing a deck wash. Every one or two weeks, sweep away dirt, debris and leaves to prevent deck mould and mildew from forming. Clear debris from between decking boards with a putty knife to ensure proper drainage.

Surface Dirt & Debris

Schedule a thorough deck cleaning once or twice a year, usually in spring and fall. Spray the deck with a garden hose to remove dirt, debris and pollen. Using a soft-bristled nylon brush, scrub the deck with deck prep. While composite deck cleaners are recommended for certain decks, pressure washing can damage composite decking, so check your manufacturer’s instructions to be safe.

Mould & Mildew

Regular deck cleaning and care can help keep mould and mildew at bay. Keep your deck dry by eliminating standing water and directing downspouts away from the deck to prevent mould growth. Avoid placing shrubs, trees or organic mulch near your deck to prevent deck mould. Use outdoor rugs made of recycled plastics instead of natural fibres, such as bamboo and jute which can trap moisture and promote deck mildew.

Tannin Stains

To prevent dark stains on your deck caused by the tannins in plants, keep your deck clear of fallen leaves and tree debris. Trim back overhanging trees and branches to minimize debris on your deck, and sweep away spring blossoms and fall leaves immediately. You can remove tannin stains with a household detergent and water.

Rust & Hard Water Stains

Hard-water stains are not uncommon to composite decking, but they can be removed with vinegar or cleaning products specially formulated for hard-water stains. To remove rust stains left by outdoor furniture and firepits, spray equal parts water and vinegar on the stains and let sit for 10 minutes before wiping clean.

Oil, Grease & Food Stains

Summer barbecues and alfresco dining can lead to food and drink spills and grease spots on your deck. Wipe them immediately using warm, soapy water. Scrub away food-grade oil and grease stains with a degreasing dishwashing liquid and soft-bristled brush or specially formulated cleaners.

Scuffs & Scratches

Shoes, kids, pets and furniture can cause scratches and scuffs over time. Smaller nicks can be covered with a wood or composite filler, while larger scratches may require replacing the deck boards. To prevent scratches and scuffs, use woven rugs without rubber backings in high-traffic areas or under deck furniture.

Snow & Ice

Rock salt is a good choice for composite decking, but it can damage wood. For wood decking use a calcium chloride-based ice melt. Use brooms and plastic shovels instead of metal shovels to avoid damaging deck boards. Remove snow regularly from your deck to keep heavy snow from warping the boards.