A practical guide to cleaning and maintaining decking surfaces in Ireland – from timber to composite, PVC and porcelain.
Keeping your decking boards clean might not seem like a big deal – until you step outside after a wet winter and realize it’s more moss than timber. We know how it goes: life’s busy, the surface looks okay from a distance, and cleaning falls down the list. But over time, grime builds up, moisture settles in, and even the strongest boards start to suffer.
This guide is here to make things easier – a straightforward way to stay ahead of the wear and tear. Whether you’ve got a softwood deck, a high-performance composite, PVC, or even porcelain tiles, we’ll walk you through what to do (and what to avoid) to keep it all looking good and feeling safe underfoot.
Why Cleaning Methods Depend on the Material?
Not all decking is made equal – and not all cleaning methods work the same way. A scrub that’s perfect for porcelain could damage softwood. Composite might resist stains, but it still collects pollen and algae. And while hardwood is naturally resilient, it still benefits from gentle, regular cleaning.
The type of material determines how it reacts to moisture, pressure, and cleaning products. That’s why we’ve broken this guide down by material – so you can treat your deck the right way and avoid doing more harm than good.
Let’s start with softwood decking – one of the most common (and delicate) types.
1. Cleaning Softwood Decking Boards
Softwood decking is warm, natural, and budget-friendly – but it needs regular care to stay in good shape.
How often?
Twice a year is recommended – usually spring and autumn.
How to clean it:
• Start by sweeping leaves and debris
• Mix warm water with a wood-safe detergent (avoid bleach)
• Use a soft brush and scrub gently along the grain
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water
Avoid:
• High-pressure washers – they can damage the soft fibres
• Leaving it untreated for long periods
• Letting moss or algae accumulate
Extra tip: Softwood absorbs water like a sponge if untreated. Make sure you reseal or re-stain regularly to protect it.
2. Cleaning Hardwood Decking Boards
Hardwood is more durable than softwood, but it still needs attention to stay looking its best.
How often?
Once or twice a year, depending on shade and weather exposure.
How to clean it: How to clean it:
• Clear off any debris and rinse lightly
• Mix water with a hardwood-specific cleaner or mild soap
• Scrub using a soft or medium-bristle brush
• Let it dry fully before applying oil or finish, if needed
Avoid:
• Skipping oiling for too long in shady/damp areas
• Using aggressive chemicals that strip natural oils
Extra tip: Hardwood reacts less to moisture than softwood but still needs occasional oiling to resist the Irish climate.
3. Cleaning Composite Decking Boards
Composite is low maintenance, but that doesn’t mean zero effort.
How often?
Once a year should do the trick.
How to clean it:
• Brush off leaves and dirt
• Mix warm water with a bit of dish soap or deck cleaner
• Scrub with a soft brush or cloth
• Rinse with a hose (or low-pressure washer if needed)
Avoid:
• Pressure washers at full blast
• Wire brushes or abrasive tools
• Assuming it never needs cleaning – it still collects pollen, collects pollen, algae, and grime over time.
Extra tip: Even though composite resists staining, it can still develop build-up in grooves or textured surfaces. A soft-bristle brush works best to get into those patterns without damaging the finish.
4. Cleaning PVC Decking Boards
PVC decking is fully synthetic and often chosen for its resistance to staining and low maintenance needs. But like all outdoor surfaces, it still benefits from regular care. Here’s how to keep it in good condition:
How often?
At least once a year, ideally after winter.
How to clean it:
• Rinse loose dirt with a garden hose
• Use a soft sponge or cloth with mild detergent
• For tougher stains, try warm soapy water and a soft brush
Avoid:
• Using strong solvents or abrasive pads
• Pressure washing close to the surface
Extra tip: PVC can get slippery when wet, so regular cleaning helps with both safety and appearance.
5. Cleaning Porcelain Decking Boards
Porcelain is about as durable as it gets outdoors – and it cleans up easily too.
How often?
Usually once or twice a year, unless you’re under a lot of trees.
How to clean it: How to clean it:
• Sweep regularly to prevent dirt buildup
• Use warm water and a neutral pH detergent
• Scrub gently with a stiff outdoor brush
• Hose it down or use medium-pressure jet if needed
Avoid:
• Acidic or abrasive cleaners
• Wire brushes
Extra tip: Since porcelain decks are installed on aluminium frames, there’s no risk of water absorption – which makes maintenance even easier.
Mistakes to Avoid (No Matter What Deck You Have)
- Leaving wet leaves or soil on the surface for weeks
- Ignoring slippery areas (algae can be dangerous !)
- Using high-pressure washers too close to the boards
- Forgetting to inspect the subframe or supports occasionally
Quick Story: When a Full Replacement Turned into a Smart Refresh
We got a call from someone who had spotted our van outside his neighbour’s house and was ready to act:
“I saw the new deck you did next door – it looks great. Mine’s looking tired, so I thought I’d get in touch before it falls apart.”
So, we arranged a visit. When we got there, he greeted us with a coffee in hand and a bit of a smirk:
“You know, not long ago I was standing here, looking at my deck thinking how tired and miserable it looked. But at least my neighbor’s was just as bad. Then next thing I know – boom – his looks brand new! And if he got a new one, so should I.”
We smiled and gently let him in on a little secret:
“That deck next door? It’s not new. Same one. Just professionally cleaned and repainted.”
He stared at us like we were joking.
“Seriously?”
Yep. No replacement, no new boards. Just a deep professional clean and a solid repaint – softwood needs that extra protection. A couple of tweaks and a bit of tidy design around the edges while we were there to install some artificial grass. That was all it took.
When we inspected his decking boards, we told him straight up – structurally, it was in great shape. He was lucky – whoever built those decks originally did a brilliant job on the framing. Solid, sturdy, and built to last. The boards still had plenty of life left in them. All it really needed was some targeted cleaning, fresh paint, and minor detailing to bring it back to life
And the money he had put aside for a full replacement? We used it to build a custom timber pergola and helped him design a little play area for his kid. The deck stayed. The garden got better. Now, both gardens are looking their best – each with its own story.
FAQs – Cleaning Decking Boards in Ireland
Q: Can I use a pressure washer to clean my deck?
A: Yes, but only on a low setting – and never directly on the joints or ends of the boards.
Q: How do I remove algae or moss from my deck?
A: Use a soft brush and a cleaner designed for algae removal. Avoid bleach – it damages the wood and
surrounding plants.
Q: What’s the best time of year to clean a deck?
A: Spring and autumn are ideal – after the harshest weather, but before heavy use.
Q: Is composite decking really maintenance-free?
A: Not quite – it’s low-maintenance, not zero-maintenance. A clean once or twice a year keeps it looking fresh.
Q: My deck looks fine – do I still need to clean it?
A: Yes – dirt, grime, and algae can build up invisibly, especially in shaded or damp spots. Preventive cleaning is easier (and safer) than repair
Final Thoughts
Whatever type of deck you have, a little seasonal maintenance goes a long way. It keeps things safe, tidy, and enjoyable. And if your deck ever needs more than a clean – you know where to find us.
