Most decks and fences are intended to provide functions and aesthetics that are intended for the outdoors. But they are used outdoors all year hence they should be washed and rearranged, in as much as they may need to create the right feel and look, and to ensure they have a longer run. However, you might be glad to know that preparing your deck and fence for a seasonal cleaning does not have to be daunting at all!
Follow our easy guide on how to prepare your deck and fence for seasonal cleaning!
1. Inspect Your Deck and Fence
Before you begin a project of staining, painting or treating your deck and fence, you should first assess their conditions. Look for:
- Cracks, splinters, or loose boards.
- Rusted nails or screws.
- Mold, mildew, or algae growth.
- Fading or peeling paint or stain.
Identifying problem areas early allows you to address them before cleaning, ensuring effective maintenance.
2. Gather Necessary Tools and Supplies
Indeed, the availability of appropriate instruments and cleaning materials makes the cleaning process faster. You’ll need:
- Cleaning Tools: Soft bristle brush, hose pipe and pressure washer optional.
- Cleaning Solutions: Deck and fence cleaner; household water with white vinegar mixed with some dish soap.
- Repair Tools: Hammer, screwdriver and wooden filler.
- Protective Gear: Gloves, safety goggles/face shield, and in case the cleaner you will be using is chemical-based, a mask acquired from a hardware store.
3. Clear the Area
Clear all staircases, and carefully take out all the furniture, plants and other items near the deck and the fence. This step is important to make sure you can clean the houses properly without any restrictions from curtains.
- First, check the garden and shake off any loose material like dirt, leaves or twigs.
- Do not allow long grass around the fence to minimize the chances of mould and mildew formation on your fence.
4. Perform Basic Repairs
Address any structural issues before cleaning to avoid further damage. Common repairs include:
- Tightening loose screws or nails.
- Replacing broken or rotted wood planks.
- Filling cracks or holes with wood filler.
Allow repairs to set or dry as needed before proceeding with cleaning.
5. Pre-Rinse the Surfaces
Flush your deck and fence with water from a garden hose to remove surface debris to prepare for cleaning them.
- In a pressure washer, it is wiser not to apply high pressure or else the wood grain will be affected.
- This process concentrates on areas ideal for dirt particle deposition such as corners and joints.
6. Apply a Cleaning Solution
Select the right cleaning solution for the material used in your deck and fences. It is best to spray it on or paint it on the surface with a brush.
- Homemade Solution: For instance, around one portion of vinegar to two-part water and a couple of drops of dish soap.
- Wash the surface with the solution and let the solution dry up where it dries with a surface grime and mud dissolving effect of 15 minutes.
7. Scrub the Surfaces
Use a soft-bristle brush to scrub your deck and fence thoroughly. Pay special attention to areas with:
- Stubborn stains.
- Mold or mildew.
- Algae or lichen growth.
Scrubbing ensures a deep clean without damaging the wood.
8. Rinse Thoroughly
Finally, wash your deck and fence with clean water after washing with the scrub. If needed rinse with water using the low-pressure garden hose or pressure washer.
- Wash all soap residue to avoid the formation of stains on the cloth.
- Identify areas that would require washing with soap and water or even rinsing.
9. Allow to Dry Completely
When you’re done cleaning, wash off any soap residue with clean water before proceeding and seal or stain your deck and fence after it has dried thoroughly. This can sometimes take 24–48 hours but may vary with bad weather.
- Do not clean with this tool during a downpour or high humidity for the best drying-out time.
- Scrub the surfaces again after washing and rinsing and dry them to look for any areas that may have been missed.
10. Seal or Stain for Protection
Finishing it on a deck and fence keeps it safe from moisture and UV and makes it resistant to wear.
- Sealant: Natural finish and clear transparent sealer for the gaps.
- Stain: Choose a stain which would blend with your overall outlook on the outdoors.
- Spread on with a brush or roller at the rate specified by the manufacturer.
Should be reapplied at least once a year, or every 3 years at most for optimal protection.
11. Schedule Regular Maintenance
Establish a regular maintenance routine to keep your deck and fence in great shape year-round.
- Daily sweeping and rinsing help to clean the surfaces against dust and dirt.
- Check for damage after storms or very strong winds.
- If the protective coatings wear out due to usual wear and tear, it is necessary to apply new ones.
Why Choose Sun Soft Wash?
Sun Soft Wash is here to be your go-to company for preparing your deck and fence for a seasonal clean. Here’s why homeowners in New Zealand rely on us:-
- Expertise: We have an excellent team of cleaning and maintenance that caters for the uniqueness of the outside structures.
- Eco-Friendly Solutions: We clean the house using environmentally friendly products that offer a health-beneficial environment to the families.
- Advanced Equipment: With cleaning systems ranging from soft washing systems to professional tools, we guarantee a thorough cleaning without damaging delicate surfaces.
- Comprehensive Services: All the work starting from inspection, cleaning, and restoration, to repairing and sealing is done by us hence no need for you to waste time.
- Customer Satisfaction: But wherever you are, our dedication to quality makes certain that your deck and fence will look brand-new, for more appeal in your outdoor living environment.
Contact Sun Soft Wash today for the assistance that will get your deck and fence ready for seasonal cleaning. Choose our company and keep your outdoor areas safe, clean and attractive – in need of a free consultation!