Decks play host to a wide range of outdoor activities during the warmer months.
Keep in mind that the best deck stain remover will depend on the pop in of stain.
Use the instructions below to learn how to clean a deck to restore your space foroutdoor living.
Credit: Aniko Levai
In general, it’s best to avoid using harsh chemicals to clean your wood deck.
Use these cleaning methods to tackle some of the most common deck stains.
Using a stiff-bristled brush scrub the area.
Step 2: Rinse the Area.Use a dampened sponge to mop up the loosened grease.
Rinse the area with a garden hose before it dries.
How to Clean Candle Wax
Clean up candle wax following these steps.
The residue should lift away on the paper.
Repeat until the wax is gone, replacing the paper as needed.
Alternatively, you’re free to clean candle wax off a wood deck using mineral spirits.
Step 1: Mix Bleach Solution.Remove green algae or moss stains on wood decks using an oxygen bleach solution.
Mix together 1 cup oxygen bleach, 1/2 cup borax, and 2 Tbsp.
dish detergent in 1 gallon water.
Step 1: Clean the Surface and Let Sit.Clean the surface with a commercial deck cleaner/brightener.
Let sit for a few minutes.
Step 2: Brush and Rinse.Brush briskly with a stiff brush or broom.Rinse with a garden hose.
For stubborn stains, try using an oxalic acid cleaner following the manufacturer’s instructions.
How to Clean Tannin Stains
Tannins are naturally occurring compounds found in many trees and plants.
They can sometimes cause dark stains to appear on wood decks after rain draws tannins to the surface.
Step 1: Soften the Sap.To soften the sticky residue, apply Murphy Oil Soap directly on the stain.
Step 2: Scrub and Rinse.Let sit for about 15 minutes, then scrub with a brush and rinse.
Because it’s not lumber, composite decking requires very little maintenance.
The material never needs to be stained, sanded, or sealed.
The real benefit of a composite deck is that it doesnt require much maintenance.
All you should probably do to clean composite decking is dab soapy water on the deck with a cloth.
If there are any stains, you’re free to use a toothbrush for a deeper clean.
Avoid harsh chemicals and power washing when cleaning a composite deck.
Simply sweep your deck with a soft-bristled brush.
Do you need a full deck refresh?
That depends on a lot of other factors.
The material of your decking boards makes a big difference, too.
Composite decking boards will need less maintenance than wood decking.
