Cleaning/treating decking?

robin

Hello

Hi, I was just wondering if anyone knew the best way to clean decking and what to treat it/paint it with?

Just moved into a house with decking in the garden but it's a bit slimy!! I was planning in using a pressure washer to clean it with but we now have a hosepipe ban, I presume we still do even with all this rain.

Thanks in advance?

Queen_Latifah

First, it needs a good clean/ scrub. You may need to use patio cleaner (check it is suitable for decking).During the hosepipe ban, you are not allowed to use a hose or Karcher but you can use water in buckets.
Then, treat the decking. I use decking stain because it is easy to apply, there are different colours available, it dries relatively quickly and there is no flaking.
If you have just moved into this property, I would advise you to make sure you get round to treating your deck by the end of the summer. Otherwise, the decking could be damaged beyond repair next winter.
I have done some research on decking stain. The best around seems to be Wickes' own brand. Look out for special offers (bought mine at 20% off).
Good luck.

[Deleted User]

osmo restore first then osmo non slip decking oil

Not the cheapest but superb results

mi_jardin

Soda Crystals are supposed to clean decking up. I have never tried it, but the instructions are on the back of the packet if I recall, if not it is on the Dri-pak website.

robin

Thanks everyone for your suggestions, will have a look in Wickes for the stain, have already looked in B&Q and Wilkinsons but there were so many to choose from I came away without any! I'll also try the soda crystals for cleaning it, I have a packet in the cupboard. Thanks again, just need a few dry days now to get it cleaned and treated, fingers crossed x