Is it safe to pressure wash your decking? Expert shares top cleaning tips

Pressure washers may be a quick solution for cleaning, but traditional methods are often more effective, especially when it comes to decking. The forceful water jets can reveal weaknesses in the wood, leading to cracks or splinters.

Additionally, pressure washers use a significant amount of water, prolonging the drying time for your decking.

Given the somewhat wet start to the summer, outdoor flooring can accumulate unsightly marks or become slippery due to algae and moss build-up. However, with the sun now shining, it's an ideal time to rejuvenate your decking, reports the Mirror

Steven Walley, a decking expert from London Stone, offers some advice on how to get your decking looking its best.

Is it advisable to pressure wash decking?

While it's possible to clean your decking with a pressure washer, Steven recommends a gentler approach. He suggests: "An easy alternative to using a pressure washer is using a solution of washing up liquid and hot water to clean your decking and remove mild stains."

Before you use the solution, he advises you prep the area first. He says: "It's important to clean your decking when it's dry, so make sure it has fully dried out if it has been raining. Once ready, clear the area from any plant pots and use a broom to remove loose debris and leaves off the surface."

"Once you've prepped the area, squeeze washing up liquid into a bucket and add hot water before mopping the solution onto the deck. Use a bristled brush to lather the solution and scrub thoroughly to lift the grime, making sure to brush in the direction of the grain on the decking, as this will make it easier. Rinse the solution off with a hose on a light setting before allowing it to dry. You can repeat the process if needed."

How to clean decking with a pressure washer

While it is advised not to use a pressure washer, it can be done as long as you take necessary precaution. Steven warns: "If you have a particularly large decking area, you might want to use a pressure washer. However, wooden decking can expand when soaked in water, which can cause it to split so it's important to take precaution when using a pressure washer. While composite decking does not absorb water as easily, the high pressure can cause the outer layer of the decking to chip and scar."

Steven advises: "Always use the low-pressure setting and make sure to start with a test patch in the corner of your decking so that if you need to make adjustments to the pressure, you can do so without damaging the main area of your decking."

"Aim to keep the nozzle around six inches away from the surface and avoid changing the power settings throughout the cleaning process to avoid obvious marks. Make sure to move in the same direction as the grain on the wood or composite deck, using a steady and consistent speed to create an even wash."

When asked about the best cleaning products for decking, Steven recommended: "If your decking is particularly dirty and has a large build-up of moss and algae, you might need a stronger cleaning solution. Baking soda is a good cleanser for your composite decking without ruining it, as it's not harsh. Sprinkle some baking soda on the decking before using a soft bristle brush to rub in and rinse with water."

He also mentioned that "Vinegar is also safe to use on decking, as long as it is not undiluted. Mix half a cup of white vinegar with a gallon of water and pour onto your decking to soak for 5-10 minutes before using a cloth or bush to give it a scrub."