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Cleaning a deck is an important step in maintaining it and ensuring it stays in great condition for years to come. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you get the job done efficiently.
Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glass, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.
Before you start, make sure to choose a day that’s not too hot and has no rain forecast. This ensures the cleaning solution works effectively without drying too quickly or being washed away by rain. Move any outdoor furniture, pots, or other items off the deck.
Once clear, use a stiff-bristled broom to sweep the entire surface, including the steps. Make sure to pay attention to the gaps between the timber boards, as dirt and debris tend to build up there. For those tight spaces, a small brush can be useful.
Before applying your deck cleaner, wet down the entire surface with water. This helps prevent the cleaning solution from drying too fast, allowing it to work properly on the timber.
Apply the deck cleaner as per the product’s instructions. Using a stiff bristle deck scrub brush or broom, start scrubbing the surface. Work in sections so you can focus on one area at a time. Scrub along the grain of the timber to help the cleaner penetrate deeper into the grooves, lifting dirt, grime, and any embedded mould or mildew.
Once you’ve scrubbed the entire deck, it’s time to rinse off the cleaning solution. You can use a garden hose or a pressure washer. Start at one end of the deck and work your way across, ensuring all the cleaner is thoroughly washed away.
If you’re using a pressure washer, be careful with the pressure setting—too high can damage the timber.
After rinsing, check the deck for any areas that might need a little more attention. If necessary, give these spots a quick re-scrub and rinse again. Then leave the deck to dry completely - this could take a few hours to a full day depending on the weather. Once dry, your deck should look clean and refreshed.
To protect your deck from the elements, it’s a good idea to apply a fresh coat of deck oil once it’s clean and dry. This helps to nourish the timber and keep it looking cleaner for longer.
Learn how to clean your BBQ.
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
