A deck is a quintessential part of the Australian lifestyle. We love spending hours outdoors, whether it is taking a dip in the pool or having a BBQ with friends.
It’s a common misconception that decks will last forever. However if it is not maintain, over time it will still deteriorate from the elements, dirt and general wear and tear. Regular maintenance is required to keep it looking like new for many years to come. We recommend that you give your deck a thorough clean and re-stain at least once a year.
Here are some handy tips on how to maintain your hardwood timber deck:
Clear your space
Clear the deck of
all items, including furniture, BBQ’s etc so that you have easy access to the
entire deck.
Remove dirt and
debris
Before beginning the
cleaning process, it is important to remove any dirt and debris. Not only can
the debris create problems if it decomposes and becomes acidic, it can also
create small, unsightly scratches. Use a broom to sweep the deck, taking care
not to scratch the deck surface.
Scrub the area
You can either use a
soft bristle brush to scrub the deck by hand with soap and water or alternatively
you can hire a pressure washer . However
if you opt for the pressure washer, please ensure you are careful not to have
the setting too high, as it can damage the timber.
Tip: hold the pressure cleaner at least 30cm away and use a
sweeping motion so that you are not over the same spot for long periods of
time.
NOTE: Don’t ever use a chlorine bleach to clean your deck as this will “bleach” the timber and rob it of its natural colour.
Use a hose to rinse
Make sure that you
thoroughly rinse any cleaning solution from your deck with a garden hose to
ensure soap and suds are removed. If not rinsed off properly it can cause
problems over time and may leave your
decking looking old and worn.
Allow it to dry
Make sure you wait
for the deck to be completely dry before
re-staining or placing any of your furniture and items back in their
place. If it is not dry, you risk potential scratching to the surface.
Seal / Stain
After you have
cleaned your deck and given it time to dry, you should apply an oil to help maintain your decks
condition. Ask your local
timber merchant which oil is most compatible for use with your decking.