Cleaning a wood deck with bleach can be effective in removing stains, mildew, and other grime. However, it's essential to take some precautions to protect the wood and yourself during the cleaning process. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to clean a wood deck with bleach:
Materials you'll need:
- Bleach (sodium hypochlorite solution)
- Water
- Rubber gloves
- Safety goggles
- Long-sleeved clothing
- Broom or brush
- Garden hose or pressure washer (optional)
- Bucket
- Plastic sheeting or drop cloths (to protect surrounding plants and surfaces)
Steps:
Safety first: Before you begin, put on rubber gloves, safety goggles, and long-sleeved clothing to protect your skin and eyes from the bleach. Make sure the deck area is well-ventilated.
Prepare the deck: Clear the deck of any furniture, plants, or other items. If there are potted plants or other sensitive objects nearby, cover them with plastic sheeting or drop cloths to protect them from any potential bleach splatters.
Dilute the bleach: In a bucket, mix one part bleach with three parts water. For example, if you have 1 cup of bleach, mix it with 3 cups of water. This diluted bleach solution will be safer for the wood and prevent potential damage.
Test a small area: Before applying the bleach solution to the entire deck, test it on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn't cause any discoloration or damage to the wood.
Apply the bleach solution: Using a brush or broom, apply the diluted bleach solution to the deck's surface. Work in manageable sections to prevent the solution from drying before you can clean it off.
Scrub and agitate: Use the brush or broom to scrub the surface gently, paying extra attention to stained or mildewed areas. Let the bleach solution sit on the deck for about 15 minutes, but avoid letting it dry on the wood.
Rinse thoroughly: After the dwell time, rinse the deck thoroughly with clean water. You can use a garden hose or a pressure washer on a low setting. Make sure to remove all traces of bleach from the wood.
Repeat if necessary: For stubborn stains or heavy mildew, you may need to repeat the process in specific areas.
Allow the deck to dry: After cleaning, allow the deck to dry completely before putting back any furniture or items. It's best to give it at least 48 hours to dry thoroughly.
Remember that using bleach can lighten the wood's color, especially if it's used in high concentrations or allowed to sit for too long. For routine cleaning and maintenance, consider using a specialized wood cleaner or a mixture of mild soap and water instead of bleach. Additionally, always follow the manufacturer's recommendations and guidelines for your specific type of wood decking.