Get cleaning your Deck readily with support from Packs Hardware

The colder season has many of us longing for those marvelous patio parties times, eating and hours spent chasing the little ones, skipping through the sprinkler. Before you start sending out the invitations to your first garden party of the year, you might want to know how to tidy your deck and/or patio to get it festivity ready! Your deck or patio has been through a rough winter season and entertaining family and friends outside is enjoyable. Getting your deck or patio ready is the first step to loving your outdoor space. We at Packs Hardware in Smithville can support you in getting your deck/patio ready for lively food and fun times!

 

Items You Could Need

• Broom
• Dustpan
• Trash Bags/Recycled yard bags
• Long handled scrubbing brush with stiff bristles
• Garden Hose with Sprayer
• Pressure Washer (optional)
• Bucket
• Slender stick or tool
• Commercial Deck Cleaner (optional)
• Laundry Detergent
• Liquid Bleach (optional)
• Deck Preservative (optional)

Even though a pressure washed deck and/or patio can be a rich, attractive area, it can just as well be an unsightly eyesore if the deck, isn’t kept. Most people who own a deck knows that it is much more inviting when it’s sparking immaculate. Cleaning your deck will not only provide a fresh look, but also help cultivate the integrity of the wood, making your deck last longer. It can also brighten up the pavers/cement of your patio, if you have one.

Watch this video for additional tips and info:

Cleaning Your Deck or Patio

Step 1 – Remove the Clutter

Step 2 – DE-GRIME YOUR DECK OR PATIO

Rinse the full deck or patio with an outdoor garden hose that has a spray attachment and work on any discoloration and oily spots with a wood deck cleaner. Using a stiff broom or scrub brush, give the stains and spots a complete scrub and then rinse away any left-over debris.

Tip – If you prefer to use a pressure washer, it is critical that you learn how to do so accordingly, an unreliable technique can actually harm your wood. If you hold the nozzle too closely to the deck, you might gash the wood, Allow a 6-8 inch space in between the spray nozzle and the deck. Use a sprayer fan nozzle for the finest effect. If you do not have a pressure washer, research your local hardware store to see if you can rent or buy one.

Step 3 – Use Cleaning Detergent or Other Deck Cleaner

Put together a blend of soapy water using a laundry detergent or study the directions on the professional cleaner. Start Applying the soapy compound you are using for the cleaner to the deck or patio. Use a long-handled brush with stiff bristles or a push broom to scrub. Start at one end of the deck and work your way across the full exterior surface. Clean the entire deck with the lawn hose to dispose of the cleaning solution. (It is not necessary to use a pressure washer at this stage.)

Step 4 – Mold or Mildew May Need Bleach

Bleach sections that have moss, mildew, or algae growth. They should be helped with a solution of 1 part bleach and 4 parts water. Pour the mix on the spot with spouted growth. If the growth looks occurs to look new, allow the solution to sit for about 5 minutes. If the growth appears to have been there for a while, allow the bleach solution to stay for an additional 15 minutes. Use a long handle brush with stiff bristles or push broom to scrub the area. Wash the spots clean and allow to dry.

After finishing the process and the spots still remain, clean again. It is best to allow the area to thoroughly dry before treating it again. In addition, wash and scour the area for the entire time the mixture is applied to the area.

As soon as you are content with the cleanliness of your deck or patio, carefully rinse it and allow it to thoroughly dry before administering a sealant. This may take as long as two or three full sunny days.

Tip: Be wary not to drip the bleach onto your grass, clothes, or skin. Use the correct gloves to protect your hands, especially if you have tender skin. Concentrated bleach might sometimes discolor the area, to help that, use an oxygen bleach cleaner to make the cleaning solution.

Step 5 – Resealing the Area

Re-seal for longer lasting results. Buy sealer for the deck. Be sure to view all of your choices in the store. A few sealers could include a waterproofing agent or disinfectant that offers your deck year-round protection. Not sure which brand is best? Stop into Packs Hardware in Smithville and let our employees help you find the right sealer for your wood deck or patio. Check the sealer instructions to apply it correctly.

STEP 6 CLEAN THE FURNITURE BEFORE PUTTING it BACK ON THE PATIO

Washing off your outdoor furniture is a good idea when it comes to preparing your deck for the spring and summer months. Pull off any textiles or cushions from the furniture and wash them according to their specific manufacturer’s instructions.

Restore any furniture or cushions that are not getting clean, have ripped or are broken. Try something bright, refresh the appearance of aged furniture with spray paint or paint. It’s reasonable and cheap! For all your seasonal cleaning activities see us at Packs Hardware in Smithville to ask the pros for advice.