Wooden deck cleaning may seem like an uphill task that is never-ending, particularly when old-stains keep reoccurring. Spills, rust or molds can leave stains on your deck. But you don't need to worry. This guide demonstrates some easy ways to remove old-stains and restore the natural appearance of your deck.
Introduction
Wooden decks make a home look inviting. With age, they might be worn, torn and have stains of weathering or accidents. These stains are not only ugly, but they may be harmful to the wood when you leave them unattended. The good news comes in the fact that you can restore the appearance of your deck without necessarily changing it, through the appropriate measures.
Understanding the Type of Stains
You need to know what caused the stains before you attempt cleaning them.
The water stain appears like dark spots or rings that occur when water remains to be inside over a long period of time.
Oil and greasy stains are dark and sticky and are normally because of barbecue spills or when it comes in contact with furniture.
Both metal furniture and nails are sources of rust stains.
Mold and mildew resemble green, black or white stains and they are common in areas where it is moist.
Stains by paint or varnish may occur when the old paint or varnish has decaded.
Safety Precautions Before Cleaning
It is not just scrubbing a deck. Safety is important:
Use gloves, glasses and a mask to put on always when using chemicals.
Ensure that the place is well-ventilated.
First test the cleaner on a small hidden area to ensure that it is not going to damage the wood.
Materials and Tools You Will Need
In order to remove older stains in the shortest time, you will need to prepare the following:
Exterior Deck cleaner (you may purchase one or make it yourself)
Sandpaper or sanding tools
Pressure washer
Stiff bristled brushes
Safety goggles and earrings.
Baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, oxalic acid are optional.
Step 1: Initial Cleaning
Start with the basics:
Blow off the leaves, dirt and debris.
Obvious furniture or vegetation that can obstruct the cleaning.
Clean deck works better in removal of stain.
Step 2: Using a Deck Cleaner
Severe stains are disintegrated by deck cleaners:
Select a cleaner according to the type of wood.
Use it as paint or spray.
Allow to rest the length of time marked on the label, typically 1015 minutes.
Scrub stubborn spots gently.
Step 3: Sanding the Deck
Squeezing the discoloration smooth:
Hempshield stains should be used with medium-grit sandpaper (80-120).
Sand against the grain of the wood.
Wear a mask all the time to prevent dust breathing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Washing with a lot of pressure.
Neglect of small stains--they may increase.
Poor application of chemicals can damage the wood.
Green Cleaning Solutions.
A natural cleaner can be mixed by combining baking soda, vinegar, and water.
Good with rust, lemon juice and salt.
Mildew can be cleared with the help of hydrogen peroxide.
Lessen the use of chemicals to contribute to the environment.
Conclusion
Wooden stains might appear hard to get rid of, yet you can repair them using the correct procedures and equipment. Get information on the types of stains, clean correctly, sand and seal. The deck will look new again.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)
Q.1. Is it possible to remove old water stains?
Yes, the majority of 5222 old water stains could be washed using vinegar, bleach, or sanding, depending on the severity of the water stain.
Q.2. Can any kind of wooden deck be pressure washed?
Pressure washing is not a dangerous procedure provided that you apply the proper pressure and maintain an appropriate distance. Softwoods require less pressure.
Q.3. What is the frequency of which I should close my deck?
Once every 1-2 years, or as per the instructions of the sealant manufacturer.
