Decking Cleaning in United Kingdom (11)

Removing stubborn dirt, algae and moss from decking is one of the most effective ways to hit refresh on your garden.

But getting a damage-free, quality finish? That needs time, care and the right equipment.

Read on for everything you need to know about decking cleaning – so you can decide whether to do it yourself or save your weekend by hiring a specialist.

Keen to get cracking with hiring decking cleaning services right away? Try our quick request a quote feature, and we’ll put you in touch with decking cleaning services covering United Kingdom.

How much does decking cleaning cost in United Kingdom?

Expect to pay between £140 and £236 , with an average cost of £180.

That said, exactly how much you pay will depend on your decking’s size, structure and condition. Our patio cleaning cost guide goes into more detail about prices.

Is it better to pressure wash or clean a deck?

Whether it’s better to pressure wash or clean a deck depends on the condition and type of decking.

• Manual cleaning (using a brush and decking cleaner) – Gentler and better for older or softer timber but needs alot of elbow grease
• Pressure washing – Effective for heavy dirt and algae, but only when done carefully to avoid damaging the wood and causing splintering

Tip: If you’re jet washing your decking yourself, start by testing your pressure washer on a hidden area of decking to ensure you don’t damage the boards.

Rather leave it to someone who knows what they’re doing? A decking cleaning specialist will use the right techniques to clean your deck safely and preserve the timber's quality.

What is the best time of year to clean decking?

The best time to clean decking is spring or early summer. This is because:

• The weather is milder and drier
• Decking dries more quickly
• It prepares the surface for oiling or staining

Avoid cleaning during freezing conditions or prolonged wet weather, as this can affect results.

How do I make my decking look new again?

To refresh tired decking, the main steps include:

• Cleaning thoroughly to remove dirt, algae and stains using a pressure washer (carefully) or scrubbing tool (and a lot of elbow grease)
• Allowing the decking to fully dry
• Applying decking oil or stain to restore colour and protect the wood
• If the surface is badly worn, light sanding may also help

Sounding like more than you’d like to take on? Save your weekend and hire a decking cleaning service instead.

What should you not use to clean decking?

To avoid damaging your decking, here’s the things you should not use when cleaning it:

• High-pressure jet washers – Can splinter wood and strip protective finishes
• Strong bleach or harsh chemicals – May discolour timber and weaken fibres
• Wire brushes or metal scourers – Can scratch and damage the surface
• Undiluted household cleaners – Often leave slippery residues
• Abrasive powders – Wears down the wood and spoil the finish

If you’re unsure what’s best, speak to a decking cleaning specialist. They can help you choose the right method for your decking type and condition.

Is hiring a decking cleaning company worth it?

If you’re only tackling light dirt on newer decking and it’s a small, easy-to-reach area, DIY is more than doable.

However, hiring a decking cleaning company is a better idea for larger or heavily soiled decks. Here’s why:

• Saves time and effort on a labour-intensive job
• Reduces the risk of damage from incorrect pressure washing
• Removes algae and stains more effectively than DIY methods
• Leaves decking ready for oiling or staining
• Improves safety by reducing slippery surfaces

Why use Checkatrade?

• Fully checked decking cleaning specialists covering your local area
• Insurance always listed
• Easy to compare multiple profiles
• Handy reviews from local customers
• Covered by the Checkatrade Guarantee (T&Cs apply)