Deck Washing & Restoration

Remove weathering, algae, and mildew — required prep before staining or sealing

Typical cost

$150–$400

Job duration

1–3 hours

How often

Every 1–2 years

Deck restoration combines careful pressure washing with wood-safe cleaning agents to remove surface weathering, mildew, and embedded dirt without damaging wood grain. A properly cleaned deck looks dramatically better immediately — and is the required first step before restaining, resealing, or refinishing.

Why Decks Need Special Treatment

Wood grain is porous — too much water pressure opens the grain and raises fibers, leaving a fuzzy surface that stains unevenly and accelerates weathering. Professional deck washers use lower pressure than they would on concrete and apply wood-safe cleaning agents that lift gray oxidation and mildew without damaging the wood.

For composite decking (Trex, TimberTech, Fiberon), the cleaning chemistry changes again — composites can be softer than natural wood in some respects and require very low pressure with a composite-safe cleaner. Always confirm with your pro that they have experience with your specific deck material.

What Gets Removed

Professional deck cleaning removes the buildup that makes wood look old and neglected:

  • Gray, weathered surface layer — UV-damaged wood that has oxidized over time
  • Green algae patches, especially on shaded or north-facing boards
  • Black mildew streaks along board edges and in gaps
  • Ground-in dirt from years of foot traffic
  • Tannin bleed-through (dark staining from where water drains and sits)
  • Old, peeling stain or sealer that's lifting from the surface

After the Wash: Staining and Sealing

If you're planning to restain or reseal, pressure washing is not optional — stain applied to dirty, mildewed wood bonds poorly and peels in one season. Wait 24–48 hours after washing to allow the wood to fully dry before applying any stain or sealer.

Many deck restoration companies offer wash-and-stain packages, which simplifies scheduling and is typically cheaper than booking separately. If your deck hasn't been refinished in 3+ years, plan both at the same time.

Common Questions About Deck Restoration

How do I know if my deck needs cleaning or replacement?
Boards that are structurally sound but look gray, green, or weathered can almost always be restored with cleaning. Boards that are soft when probed with a screwdriver, show active rot at joists or posts, or are cracked through — those need replacement. Cleaning doesn't fix structural damage, but it often reveals whether it exists.
Can you clean composite decking?
Yes, but the process is different. Composite decking requires very low pressure and a composite-safe cleaning solution. High pressure can scuff or damage the surface cap on some composite brands. Confirm your contractor has hands-on experience with your specific product (Trex, TimberTech, etc.) before booking.
What's the best time of year to clean a deck?
Spring (after the last freeze) or early fall (before sustained cold). If you're planning to stain after cleaning, you need temperatures above 50°F for the stain to cure. Cleaning in late fall is fine if you're not refinishing — it clears the debris before winter so you start fresh in spring.
How long will the results last?
A cleaned and freshly stained deck typically looks good for 2–3 years before stain begins to fade and cleaning is needed again. Unfinished or unsealed wood after cleaning will show weathering faster — within a season in humid climates. Staining after cleaning is strongly recommended.
Free — No obligation

Get Free Deck Restoration Quotes

Matched with up to 3 licensed local pros in 24 hours

1Your ZIP
2Your Details
Deck Restorationselected

Related Services

House Soft Washing
Driveway & Concrete Cleaning
Fence Washing