So, if you’ve been putting it off, now is the time to start giving your decking some TLC so you can enjoy a beautiful garden this spring. But don’t worry—you're not in this alone. We’ve created an easy-to-follow guide to help you get your decking into tip-top shape.

Regular cleaning

On average, timber decking can last between 15 and 30 years (but only if it is cared for properly).

Since it’s exposed to the harsh UK weather throughout winter, timber decking is susceptible to mould and mildew growth, dirt buildup, pest damage, and fading from UV rays in the summer.

By creating a simple, regular cleaning regime, you can help to keep these issues under control, giving you less to do during a deep clean. For this, we recommend a weekly sweep with a soft-bristled brush to remove any leaves, twigs, and debris.

Focus on the gaps between boards where moss and muck are likely to accumulate. Brushing after rain is best to prevent slipper patches from forming (it can also give your decking a natural clean before you brush).

When is the best time to clean decking?

Cleaning your decking in the winter is like fighting a losing battle. Every time you sweep or mop it, the wind and rain will send it back to square one.

For this reason, it’s best to deep clean in the spring or summer, when temperatures are warmer and there’s less wind. However, avoid cleaning on days that are too hot, as this can cause any treatments to dry too quickly.

Annual deep clean

Yes, weekly cleaning and scrubbing go a long way, but if you don’t take the time to get into all the nooks and crannies every so often, you’re neglecting the issues that will continue to build.

For this reason, an annual clean is vital to prevent years' worth of damage that could have been avoided. Think of it as a spring reset!

1. Clear away any furniture

First things first, you’ll need to move any decking chairs, tables, and decorations to clean the areas that are hard to reach.

Sweep away any loose debris—leaves, moss, soil, etc.—before cleaning to avoid it getting stuck to the wet surface. This can also prevent scratches on your timber decking.

During this time, inspect your boards to see if any need repairing or replacing.

2. Choose a suitable decking cleaner

When choosing a decking cleaner, make sure it's designed for the material of your decking. Don’t just grab anything from under your sink and call it a day!

Household bleach and detergents can affect how well decking oils and stains work after cleaning the structure.

Various decking cleaners are on the market, designed for specific materials like timber, composite, or softwood. Always complete a patch test first to ensure the cleaner doesn’t affect the quality of the boards.

Some cleaners may need diluting, so always check the label carefully before applying. If mould is growing on your decking boards, look for multi-purpose cleaners that also target mould.

3. Get scrubbing

Once you’ve chosen a safe decking cleaner, apply the cleaner to your decking boards with a soft mop or microfibre cloth.

Slowly work it into the boards, paying extra attention to any joints, corners, or gaps. Then, let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes and give it another firm scrub to dislodge embedded dirt.

Use circular motions when scrubbing for tough patches and work along the grain to avoid surface damage.

4. Rinse thoroughly

Once you’ve worked on all of the boards, rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water.

You can save time by hosing your decking down with a general garden hose, getting rid of all those lingering suds. It’s best to leave your decking to dry naturally over a day or so, which is why doing your annual clean in spring or summer is the best option—more sun, quicker drying.

Jet washing: yes or no?

A pressure washer can make the cleaning process much quicker, chipping away stubborn grime and making it less tiresome.

However, if the pressure's too high or the nozzle is too close, you could gouge the wood or strip away protective finishes. To avoid this, use a fan tip and keep the nozzle around 30-40cm from the surface.

Stick to the lowest effective setting and move in the direction of the boards for a thorough clean. Let your deck dry fully for a day or two before applying any stains or oils.

Protective treatments: which is best?

When it comes to keeping your decking looking fresh for as long as possible, you’ll need to call on some timber treatments, like trusty oils and stains, to do the job.

But with so many products on the shelf, which one’s right for you?

Decking oils

If you want to nourish your deck and bring out the natural grain, oil is a great choice. Decking oils soak deep into the timber, creating a protective barrier while giving it a soft sheen.

Many decking oils contain UV filters to help protect your boards from fading, so they remain vibrant. They can also help resist water damage, perfect for UK homes.

Decking stains

If you want to change the colour or tone of your wood decking, decking stain is a great option. It adds a layer of colour while also protecting the surface against UV rays and moisture.

However, stains don’t penetrate the wood as deeply as oils do, so you will need to maintain your decking more often to avoid peeling.

Here is a quick guide to finding the perfect treatment for you:

Your decking needs	Best option
You love the natural timber look	Decking Oil
You want to refresh faded boards	Decking Stain
You’re covering up imperfections	Decking Paint
You want a safer, grippier surface	Anti-Slip Treatment

Upgrade your decking with Beesley and Fildes

Is your decking looking a little worse for wear? It may be time to rip up those old boards and give our garden a much-needed refresh.

You won’t have to look far for your decking boards. At Beesley and Fildes, we have a great selection of timber decking, from pressure-treated softwood to tanalised green redwood; there’s something for every home.

Don’t miss out on your chance to transform your garden in time for summer at a great price.