Wood Deck Mildew Removal

Deck mildew is most likely caused by neglect. Normally decks with mildew result from non-treatment of the wood over a long period of time. Aside from mildew, you’ll probably see signs of graying, splintering and cracking boards. Hopefully these characteristics and other signs of rotting are not present. Deck mildew is a warning to homeowners. An appearance of mildew on your deck is a cause for concern, and it requires that you take action immediately. If deck restoration is not yet needed, removal of mildew is simple. It requires easily acquired tools and materials and a lot of scrubbing strength.

Step 1 – Choose a Hot Day

When removing mildew from your wooden deck, select a hot and sunny day to do the job. With the help of the sun, drying the wooden deck becomes faster; hence killing the mold spores and removing mildew will be easier. Remember, dry wood is unappealing to mildew, and the heat will kill the spores.

Step 2 – Wear a Face Mask and Gloves

Before you begin, make sure you have your face mask and gloves on. These solutions you are about to work with are harmful to your skin, lungs and eyes.

Step 3 – Wash the Deck

Wash the deck with a pressurized nozzle on your hose. If this doesn’t do the job, proceed to the next step.

Step 4 – Prepare the Treatment Solution

Prepare the wood deck treatment solution by mixing 3 quarts of water, 1 quart of oxygen bleach, and 1/4 cup of ammonia-free liquid dishwasher detergent. If you don’t have bleach, you can substitute vinegar. Vinegar acts like the bleach without the chemical composition.

Step 5 – Apply the Solution

Apply the solution by liberally spraying it on the mildew-infected area. Allow the solution to sit for about 10 to 15 minutes. The bleach solution will work on the deck mildew and eventually kill it. The dishwasher detergent, on the other hand, will aid in emulsifying the deck mildew and making it easier to remove. Make sure you rinse thoroughly all the residue off the wood.

Step 6 – Sand Down the Deck

If you haven't removed the deck mildew, repeat the cleaning process described above until you meet success. If your efforts don't seem to pay off, you might consult with an expert on wooden deck mold and mildew. Your deck might need full professional restoration.

If your efforts are successful, use a wooden deck sander to sand down the deck.

Step 7 – Treat the Deck

Treat the deck with an oil-based sealer. Treating your deck with the sealer every 5 years will help keep your wooden deck in good shape for a long period of time. The sealer will help repel moisture, the cause of mildew. If you can find a wood deck sealant with an added fungicide, that will be better.