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Deck cleaning doesn’t ever have to be an impossible task. Where there’s a will, there’s a way - and probably a highly recommended deck cleaning product or another too. The thing is, cleaning a deck the wrong way can actually cause severe damage to the surface of the deck. Read on for the four biggest must avoid deck cleaning mistakes.

Deck Cleaning Mistake #1: High Pressure Power Washing

There’s no way to destroy the surface of a wooden deck faster than using a high pressure power washer set at way to high of a PSI setting. In fact, pretty much anything over 1000 PSI will be likely to cause irreparable damage in the form of splintered wood and the telltale fuzzy soft surface caused by the extreme pressure. That said, cleaning a deck with a pressure washer set at a low setting is perfectly fine if done cautiously.

Deck Cleaning Mistake #2: Cleaning With Chlorine Bleach

As tempting as it is, avoid using chlorine bleach (everyday laundry bleach) to clean decks at all costs. By its very nature, chlorine bleach works to break down wood fibers and pulp. It does a great job on the mildew and dirt, but can easily ruin a deck at the same time. As an alternative to chlorine bleach, try using oxygen based bleaches designed specifically for the purpose of deck cleaning instead. And even then, research the product to make sure it is okay to use on your type of wood.

Deck Cleaning Mistake #3: Using Harsh Chemicals

There’s a folk remedy out there for just about any kind of home project, such as deck cleaning. But if someone tells you to use a harsh chemical solvent to clean your deck, don’t listen. Some chemicals are okay to use on certain wood decks, such as a special wood specific acid used on redwood or cedar. However, many oxalic acid cleaners will counter react with some wood decks, causing a disaster. Before considering using any kind of chemical for deck cleaning, make sure it is compatible with the material it will be used on.

Deck Cleaning Mistake #4: Using More Than Necessary

We all know it’s easy to get carried away. Sometimes using more of the arsenal than really necessary seems like a great idea - after all, more is better, right? Well, when it comes to deck cleaning, that’s not the case at all. Every product has some impact on the environment and on the deck’s material, so don’t overdo it. Plus, many of the products used for deck cleaning can be dangerous to humans, animals, and plants!