How to Clean Wood Decks

A great project that can really get a backyard looking like new is cleaning a wood deck. Decks survive a full year of sun, rain, snow and wear and tear and can often look dingy and old with just one season. If you are going to paint or stain a wood deck it is crucial to clean the deck first. Many commercial deck cleaning products will strip old wood resulting in splintered and cracked wood which makes painting or staining a much harder job and takes years off of the life of your deck. Using Quick n Brite, a natural and non-abrasive cleaner is a great way to clean and prolong the life of your deck.

There are two prominent ways to clean a large deck. If you have access to a light duty pressure washer or one with an adjustable wand that allows a wide spray pattern for low pressure that is an easy way to clean your deck. If your pressure washer has a chemical or detergent injection chamber, fill that first with full strength Quick n Brite liquid and it will siphon the cleaner into the water stream making pressure washing an even easier job!

If you don't have access to a pressure washer, using a large push broom and bug sprayer is a great way to clean your deck. First, using your garden hose spray the deck clean to remove the majority of debris and dirt. Then, mix 2/3 cup of Quick n Brite liquid to 1 gallon of water (hot if possible) into your bug sprayer. Spray your deck with the heavy solution of Quick n Brite and let sit for 10 minutes. Then dip your large push broom into the Quick n Brite heavy solution and work in small 4 to 5 foot sections to clean the deck. Once the deck is clean, use a garden hose to rinse it. 

Quick n Brite is non-toxic, biodegradable and safe so you don't have to worry about getting cleaner onto plants and grass, or having animals or children around when you are cleaning your deck. No special protective equipment is required when using Quick n Brite Cleaner.