Decks are constantly exposed to the elements, and can be exposed to mildew. Allowing it to grow untreated even for a short period can lead to more work and damage.

If deck cleaner alone doesn't quite do the job, use a pressure washer. Keep the tip 4-6 inches away from the surface and use less than 1,000 pounds per square inch. Keeping the tip too close with too much pressure could damage the wood. Use short, sweeping motions and move smoothly across the surface to get a consistently clean surface.

TESTING FOR MILDEW - Apply a drop of household liquid bleach to the suspected spot. If the spot disappears after a minute of two, then mildew is present.

CLEAN - Use a commercial deck cleaner, or mix your own with a solution of 1 part chlorine bleach to 3 parts warm water. Bleach is the key component that actually kills the mildew. Using a common garden sprayer, apply the solution liberally to the deck surface and allow the mixture to set for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Skipping this set time may result in an inadequate job. For stubborn mildew, mix 1 cup trisodium phosphate (TSP) and 1 cup household liquid bleach in 1 gallon of water and use a stiff brush to work the solution into the wood. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and let dry.

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