With summer on the approach barbecues and long sunny afternoons spent in the garden are calling, so what better time to spruce up your decking area than now? But before you reach for the bleach and water, Jimmy Englezos, Senior Brand Manager from Ronseal has some stark words of advice for ensuring your deck is looking fresh and sparkling.
The expert explained that while bleach might seem like the quickest way to clean up your outdoor seating area, it could be detrimental, and instead, he recommends opting for a cheap, all-natural alternative.
“Contrary to belief, household bleach should never be used to clean decking. This is because the bleach corrodes the metal fasteners, screws, and nails causing them to rust at first and then weaken,” warned Jimmy.
“Bleach can also damage the surface of composite decking causing it to discolour and possibly chip.”
Instead, he recommends using a solution which can be whipped up for just “£1.50” or even less depending on where you shop. The expert suggests making a solution of bicarbonate of soda, also known as baking soda, combined with white vinegar. Both are all-natural kitchen cupboard staples that can be secured from your local supermarket on a budget.
“This is another popular method for decking cleaning since bicarbonate of soda can be picked up for as little as £1.50 from supermarkets with white vinegar costing as little as 35p,” he explained.
“This method is perfectly suitable for both natural wooden and composite decking surfaces as it helps remove mould and mildew that may have built up over winter. Just make sure to thoroughly mix the vinegar with plenty of water.
“Simply sprinkle some bicarbonate of soda across the decking surface before mixing one cup of vinegar into a bucket of warm, but not boiling, water. Dip the bristles of a soft-touch brush into the solution and gently scrub the decking surface.
“The bicarbonate of soda will react with the diluted vinegar to help remove any stains, mildew, and mould. Make sure to thoroughly rinse the decking afterwards using a pressure washer or garden hose.”
Alternatively, Jimmy recommends reaching for a specialist decking cleaner such as Ronseal’s Decking Cleaner and Reviver – particularly if you have a build-up of moss, mould, and algae. Start by moving any pots and furniture off the decking surface and cover any nearby plants. Next, use a soft-bristled brush to brush away any excess dirt and debris.
“Pour the decking cleaner directly onto the surface and scrub using a clean brush,” said Jimmy.
“Leave the cleaner to work for 15 to 20 minutes to lift off the dirt.”
Then, using a pressure washer on a low setting, rinse off the entire decking surface to completely remove the solution.