The service
Safer, Better-Looking Decking
Decking in shaded or damp corners of the garden picks up algae and green mould quickly, especially in the North East's weather, and it can turn genuinely dangerous underfoot long before it looks obviously dirty. ECR cleans decking at a low-to-moderate pressure and works along the grain, lifting grime and growth without splintering or gouging the timber.
Once cleaned, the gaps between boards are cleared of trapped leaves and debris that hold moisture against the wood, and, on request, we can apply a decking oil or preserver to protect the timber and slow the return of algae. Composite decking is cleaned using a gentler method suited to its finish, avoiding damage to the surface coating.
- Timber and composite decking cleaned safely
- Algae and green mould removed to reduce slip risk
- Gaps between boards cleared of trapped debris
- Cleaned along the grain to protect the timber
- Optional oiling or staining available after cleaning
Common questions
Decking Cleaning FAQs
What does decking cleaning involve?
Decking cleaning uses low-to-moderate pressure washing, worked along the grain of the timber, to remove algae, green mould and trapped dirt from between the boards. Composite decking is cleaned using a gentler method suited to its factory finish, avoiding damage to the surface coating that timber decking doesn't have.
Will jet washing damage my decking?
Not with the right pressure and technique. A lower setting than would be used on stone or concrete is applied, working along the grain, which lifts dirt and algae without splintering the timber or damaging composite finishes.
How often does decking need cleaning?
Once a year is usually enough for decking in an open, sunny spot. Shaded or damp gardens tend to grow algae faster and may benefit from a clean twice a year to stay safe underfoot.
Can you treat the decking after cleaning?
Yes, an oil or preserver can be applied once the deck is clean and dry, which helps protect the timber and slows down how quickly algae and mould return. Composite decking doesn't need oiling in the same way, though a specific composite cleaner and protector can help maintain its colour.
How long does decking cleaning take?
A standard-sized deck typically takes one to two hours to clean, depending on the area, how much algae has built up and whether the gaps between boards need clearing of trapped debris. Decking that hasn't been cleaned for several years usually takes longer.
Is decking cleaning safe to do myself?
A domestic pressure washer can be used on decking, but the wrong pressure or angle is a common cause of splintered, fuzzy timber that then needs sanding to put right. Working across the grain rather than along it is the most frequent mistake, along with holding the nozzle too close to the boards.
What to expect
Before Any of That Starts
A free, no-obligation quote covers timber and composite decking alike, with pressure matched to protect the finish rather than strip it. Cleaning follows the grain of the timber, and gaps between boards are cleared of trapped debris as standard. Oiling or treatment is available on request once the deck is fully dry.
Why ECR
Why Choose ECR for Decking Cleaning
Cleaned Along the Grain
Lower pressure and the right technique lift dirt and algae without splintering timber or damaging composite finishes.
Safety, Not Just Appearance
Removing algae and green mould is about reducing slip risk underfoot, not just how the deck looks.
Composite Treated Differently
A gentler method suited to composite decking's factory finish avoids damaging the surface coating timber doesn't have.
Slippery Decking?
Get it cleaned and treated before it becomes a hazard.