You’ll need to keep your deck clear for at least 2 days after cleaning it. If possible, store your deck furniture somewhere indoors in case the weather takes a turn for the worse. A basement, tool shed, and carport could also make a good place to temporarily stash your furnishings.
Use a putty knife to dislodge any gunk you find trapped between the boards of your deck or inside other hard-to-reach places.
To ensure that your deck ends up with a uniform appearance after staining, pick out a type of lumber with a similar color, texture, and grain pattern. If your deck is need of more extensive repairs, it may be a good idea to hire a contractor to come out and fix it up. [5] X Expert Source Patrick CoyePainting Specialist Expert Interview. 22 July 2020.
Watch out for uneven edges around corners, nail holes, and the lines where 2 boards meet. Be careful not to sand down the surface too much. Doing so could create shallow depressions, causing rainwater to pool on your deck.
It’s not necessary to go to the trouble of covering your plants if you’re working with an organic or plant-friendly wood cleaner. In this case, it will be enough to gently mist them down with a hose once you’re finished. If there are any tree limbs or shrubs overhanging the edges of your deck, consider trimming them back to create more airflow and help the wood dry faster later on. [9] X Research source
Before you begin dispersing your deck cleaner, pull on a pair of gloves and some safety glasses to protect your skin and eyes from harsh chemicals. [10] X Research source Some cleaners are designed to be applied to a dry deck, while others require a damp surface. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions to ensure that your deck cleaner does its job effectively.
You can go ahead and scrub your deck while it’s still wet to make the best use of your time.
Stay away from wire brushes or scouring pads. These can leave behind scratches or cause metal fibers to become embedded in the wood and rust over.
Continue rinsing your deck until you no longer see bubbles foaming on the wood. Use a regular garden hose for this task. The force of a pressure washer could be enough to cause small cracks or similar surface wear. [13] X Research source
To determine whether your deck is dry enough for staining, pour some water onto a small section of the wood. If it takes less than 30 seconds for the water to soak in, you’re good to go. Otherwise, let the wood continue drying overnight. [14] X Research source For best results, schedule your project for a stretch of days where clear conditions are expected.
