With the summer fast approaching and lockdown restrictions continuing to ease across the country, people are planning garden parties with family and friends. That means that you will be looking to get your garden space cleaned and looking good for when you have guests. Decking can often get stained and look worn out over the winter periods with lots of bad weather and rain. But one of the great things about the wooden finish is that it can be cleaned down and retreated to look great again. We have put together a guide on how to clean garden decking and treat it so that it looks as good as new for the summer!
How to Easily Clean Garden Decking
To clean garden decking you should first use a gentle cleaning solution mixed from water and dish soap. Apply this solution onto your decking with a stiff bristled brush and work it into the wood until it lathers to lift out any dirt. Once you’ve done this you can clean off with a hose or pressure washer, but make sure the pressure is on a lower setting.
Continue to brush the decking once you have hosed it down to get rid of any lingering dirt or grime. If the surface is still not clean, then it will likely be tough algae or mould on the decking that will require a stronger cleaning solution. If this is the case then you can find plenty of cleaning solutions in your local garden centre. Make sure you still complete the first step to allow the cleaning product to really work at cleaning the mould and algae.
How to Easily Treat Decking That’s Faded
During the winter months, it is likely that the colour of your decking can fade through constant bad weather and can end up looking grey come the summer. But not to worry, this can be easily treated with some decking stain or paint. However, there are a couple of different products that you can buy for your decking and it can be confusing to know which one you should buy. We provide some tips on the best products to use for different purposes;
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Decking Oil - this is often available in a clear finish or with natural wood stain and should be used if you are happy with the colour and condition of your decking.
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Decking Stain - still an oily product but slightly thicker with a deeper colour stain. This will change the colour of your decking but leave a natural wood effect.
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Decking Paint - this is a thicker paint and should be used if your decking is in worse condition. It will cover imperfections better but will leave a painted finish as opposed to woodgrain.
Once you have chosen the finish on your decking, you could also go over with a clear oil or sealer to help prevent wear and damage the following winter. But otherwise your decking should be as good as new! If you don’t have time to clear or get rid of items in your garden before people come round then it could be a good idea to consider self storage. Make sure you get a quote from us if you are looking for storage solutions.