Winter is just about here and now is the time to prepare and protect your decking for the long winter months.
Fall deck cleaning and preventative measures should always be a top priority for deck owners. The changing seasons can wreak havoc on decks unless properly maintained. Not only can forgotten grease stains, mold issues, or even heavy snow ruin the look of your deck, but it can also even lead to permanent damage. Fortunately, a few simple steps are all it takes to winterize your deck so it will outlast the harsh winter months.
Clean the deck with a bleach-free cleaner. Whether you have natural wood or composite decking; the right cleaning products can make all the difference for the look and the life of your deck. Experts* in the decking industry have found that extremely harsh chemicals (such as chlorine bleach or ammonia-based cleaners) used to clean the deck can often lead to fading, cracking, or discoloration of the look of natural wood. Even the EPA* says bleach is a no-go for mold clean-up. Why? The simple answer is that these chemicals are corrosive in nature and although they may provide initially satisfying results, they are actually chemically altering the PH of the wood and damaging the structure with every application.
UltraMean2- An oxygen bleach-based cleaner and stain remover.
Here’s why we love it: An oxygen bleach-based cleaner is an excellent choice for either hard to clean stains or a quick spot clean. When mixed with water, it uses the power of oxygen to really dig in and pull out ground-in dirt and other stains. Need to perform a quick spot-clean? Mild dish soap should do the trick. And as always, our products are environmentally friendly, biodegradable, and bleach-free.
It may be an annoying area of the deck to address but there’s actually a really important reason to keep those cracks debris-free. Dirt, leaves, mold, and even snow can cause major damage to your deck. These areas can build up and trap moisture causing wood rot and structural damage. A quick spray with a hose or a pressure washer with a low PSI setting should do the trick to clear the area.
While you’re cleaning, it’s also a great time to perform some inspections. Thoroughly inspect the surface area for staining as well as the underside for any moisture or structural issues that need to be addressed.
Flower pots, planters, and other outdoor furniture can leave rust stains on your decking that can be nearly impossible to remove. Always try to use deck friendly furniture and move your planters around frequently to promote airflow and to help prevent water from pooling and staining.
