Having a beautiful wooden deck, whether it's made of oak, pine, or exotic wood, is a true aesthetic asset for any property, but it also comes with responsibilities, especially in terms of maintenance.
Regular cleaning is essential to extend its lifespan and maintain its charm and attractive color. Wood deck cleaners, whether formulated for floorboards or exterior cladding, come in various forms, each suited to different types of dirt and specific issues.
This article allows you to explore the importance of choosing the right cleaner, the available options, and provides practical tips for effective and wood-safe deck cleaning.
Why clean your wooden deck?
Cleaning your wooden deck is not just a matter of aesthetics—it's also a crucial step in preventing the early deterioration of exterior wood surfaces.
Wood mold, stains, and greying are common signs of neglect that can be avoided with regular cleaning. In addition to enhancing the appearance of the deck, proper cleaning also prepares the surface for further treatment, whether it be the application of a brightener, wood stain, or saturator.
How to choose your special wood deck cleaner?
Conventional cleaners
Conventional cleaners for wooden decks come in several formulas: alkaline, acidic, or oxygen-based. Each has its own benefits and is recommended depending on the type of dirt to be treated.
For example, alkaline formulas are often used to remove dirt and grease, while acidic solutions are effective for removing stubborn stains such as rust. It’s crucial to follow safety guidelines when using these products, especially when it comes to protecting your eyes, skin, and the surrounding environment—including your garden and nearby flooring.
Be especially careful not to use concentrated caustic soda or bleach, as they could damage your wood.
Natural and eco-friendly wood cleaners
For those who prefer a gentler approach, there are natural alternatives such as the use of black soaps with linseed oil, available in liquid, gel, or foaming formulas. These cleaners are just as effective for regular and gentle maintenance of your wooden deck, without compromising the integrity of the wood surfaces or accessories.
Comparison of options
It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each type of cleaner. Conventional formulas may offer greater cleaning power for tough stains, while natural cleaners are ideal for quick and regular maintenance.
With a commitment to respecting both the environment and users, at Anova Bois we have chosen to offer high-quality, environmentally friendly products such as our SN800 Black Soap, our N100 Wood Cleaner, or its concentrated version, the N140 Concentrated Wood Cleaner.
Exotic Wood Saturator SBE600 Matt, Colourless or Tinted- Wood Terrace
How to apply a cleaner to my wooden deck?
Applying a wood deck cleaner requires proper preparation of the surface to be treated. Start by sweeping the deck to remove any surface debris before applying the cleaning products.
- If you've chosen N100 Cleaner, shake the product well before use. Apply it using a low-pressure sprayer, a brush, or a roller. Generously soak the surface following the wood grain and let it sit for 10 to 20 minutes without letting it dry. Use a brush to scrub vigorously. Then, rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water. If your wooden deck is heavily soiled, feel free to repeat the process.
- For the concentrated version, N140 Cleaner, dilute the product as follows: 1 part product to 3 parts water. Apply, scrub, and rinse in the same way as with N100 Cleaner.
- For quick and regular maintenance, dilute one cap of black soap with linseed oil or a small amount of SN800 Black Soap Gel in a bucket of warm water to create a cleaning solution. Apply by scrubbing your wooden deck with hot water. Rinse and repeat the process if needed.
Tips and tricks for effective wood cleaning
Using a high-pressure washer can significantly improve cleaning efficiency, as long as it is used at the right pressure to avoid damaging the wood.
In addition, choosing the right equipment for applying cleaners and rinsing is essential to achieve the best results.
As for weather conditions, it’s best to clean your wooden deck early in the morning and/or out of direct sunlight to prevent the cleaner from evaporating before rinsing. During hot weather, you can spray a bit of water to keep the surface moist and slow down evaporation.
Maintenance and protection after cleaning my wooden deck
After cleaning, it is important to allow the deck to dry completely before applying a wood saturator or a protective stain. Sanding can also be considered if the wood shows signs of wear or roughness. Finally, regular maintenance—including periodic cleaning with gentle products like black soap with linseed oil—will help preserve the condition and beauty of your wooden deck for years to come.
To learn more about specific products and how to use them for easy maintenance, feel free to visit the wood cleaner page for a full selection tailored to your needs, such as for wooden cladding or floor maintenance like parquet. Don’t hesitate to check out the guide and our tips for your natural or composite wood projects.