If you do not treat the moss and algae growth on your deck, it could compromise the deck's structural stability. It is also possible for it to be slippery in wet weather. It is essential to eliminate moss and algae as soon as they show any evidence of growth; this is due to the fact that they can rapidly spread and reproduce.
The accumulation of dead leaves and other debris on your deck is the primary factor that encourages the growth of moss and algae. This type of buildup will accumulate and retain moisture, which is especially problematic during storms and other types of severe weather. This trapped moisture begins to spawn mold, mildew, moss, and algae – and the damper and darker the environment – for example, if your deck has natural shade or cover from trees – the more fertile the breeding ground. Mold, mildew, moss, and algae are all types of fungi that thrive in moist environments.
Your deck will not only appear unpleasant if you do not fix it, but it might also become a slipping danger for your family and guests if you do not treat it. On top of that, the trapped moisture will eventually begin to seep into the wood, which will result in cracks, splinters, and finally wood rot. This is an extremely undesirable outcome. Even though it is less likely to suffer from wood rot, composite decking is not immune to the dangers posed by moss and algae. If moss and algae are allowed to grow unchecked, composite decking may become just as hazardous and slippery as a wood deck.
Read more: Preventing and Preventing a Slippery Deck
According to the proverb, taking preventative measures is better than having to treat an illness afterwards. It is important to refrain from allowing debris to accumulate on your deck in the first place. Maintain a clean sweeping pattern on it, and make it a habit to frequently remove any debris that may have accumulated in the crevices or spaces. In order to prevent moisture retention, bacterial growth, and other issues, the surface should be kept as dry and openly exposed as is possible.
Steps for Cleaning Moss & Algae from Your Deck
By giving your deck a good cleaning once a year, you can discourage the formation of moss and algae while also extending its overall lifespan. You have the option of purchasing a deck cleaner that is available for purchase, such as #1 Deck Wood Cleaner, or you may quickly and easily make your own deck cleaner using a few common household products that you most likely already own.
The following is a brief step-by-step guide that will walk you through the process of removing moss and green algae from a wood deck:
Step 1: Make your cleaning solution
One gallon of warm water and three quarters of a cup of chlorine bleach should be combined in a pail. For even better cleaning results, you may also mix in a third of a cup of powdered laundry detergent that does not include ammonia.
Step 2: Apply the solution
When the solution has been thoroughly combined, pour it onto your deck and then wait ten to fifteen minutes before walking on it.
Step 3: Scrub
The next step is to clean the deck in great detail to get rid of all the moss and algae. The use of a hand brush is an option; however, we advocate making use of a scrub brush that is mounted to a pole or the handle of a broom (the latter will make for a more labor-intensive process).
Step 4: Rinse
In the end, use a garden hose to thoroughly wash the surface of the deck to eliminate any remaining residue, and then wait for the deck to completely dry before using it again.
You also have the option of utilizing a power washer or a pressure washer in order to reduce the amount of manual labor required. It is highly recommended that you make use of a fanning nozzle, as this will allow you to remove moss and algae from your deck in an efficient and risk-free manner, without causing any damage to the wood or removing any paint or stain. You are welcome to use the same detergent recipe that was described earlier; however, depending on the size of your washing machine, you may want to adjust the proportions so that you use one-third of a cup of powdered laundry detergent that does not contain ammonia, one quart of bleach, and three gallons of water.