The decision to begin or maintain a regular program of deck care can be of huge benefit to a homeowner in order to keep the deck looking great and to get as many years as possible of use from it. Wait for a specified period of time and rinse the decking with a garden hose or power washer. A model cut resistant sleeves that delivers about 1,000 psi is probably strong enough. A regular sweep of the surface area is a good idea once a week. Brush the mixture onto a portion of the deck surface and let it sit for 5 minutes. Changes in the deck occur so slowly that homeowners do not readily see a problem beginning to develop. If simple washing does not produce a satisfactory result or if the deck needs to be lightened to apply a finish, a deck cleaning product might be the answer. This might need to be increased in frequency depending upon the weather. Check the underside of stair treads and stringers.

　　To deal with dirt, mildew, stains and greyed cellulose all in one step, select a commercially available deck cleaning product. Work in line with the wood's grain holding the spray head at a slight angle about 4 to 6 inches above the deck surface. However, a simple program of deck care can go a long way to keeping a deck in relatively good shape. Normal usage along with outdoor elements such as rain, snow, ice, wind and constant exposure to the ultraviolet rays of the sun can affect this outdoor living space harshly. So a planned program of maintenance will provide the cues to staying ahead of the dirt and the grime. Spray the solution on with a pressure sprayer or use a roller or mop to spread it evenly over the deck. The cleaning process is simple but labor intensive in some ways. It is important to use a fan tip so the pressurized water will not tear up the wood surface. Check the joists and the beams in the same way even though they are not as likely to rot. In most cases, roll or spray the solution evenly onto the decking.

　　Mildew must be treated in another manner. In most instances, rot occurs in areas that are not readily visible such as near post tops and bottoms and under the decking. Instead they are more subject to cracking. Its slimy black color and unpleasant odor are best dealt with by a bleach solution and improved ventilation. Rinse the solution off and let the area dry. Make a solution of 1 or 2 cups of bleach to each gallon of water or buy a bleach based deck cleaning product. Move slowly and evenly, overlapping adjacent sprayed areas.

　　If moss and algae are a problem with the deck it will be necessary to mix a solution of 1 ounce of laundry soap, 3 ounces of trisodium phosphate (TSP) or a nonphosphate TSP substitute, 1 quart of chlorine bleach and 3 quarts of water.With proper maintenance a well built deck will provide years of enjoyment and service. If necessary repeat the process. If the wood is in really poor condition, use oxalic acid mixed with water and scrub one area at a time with a stiff fiber brush.

　　. Neglected decks fall prey to mildew, algae or assume a dingy grey hue.