You built a deck so you can enjoy spending time with your friends and family outdoors – without actually being…in nature. So the last thing you want is for nature to encroach on your quality deck time in the form of mould and mildew. And if your deck is in a shady area or you live in a humid climate, it can happen.
So keep reading, and we’ll tell you how to get rid of pesky mould and mildew before it destroys your beautiful deck!
What Causes Mould?
Mould spores are everywhere, just floating through the air, although they’re relatively harmless at this point. But if mould and mildew get the following four things, they can take root and spread:
- A host, aka your deck
- Oxygen
- Temperatures of around 25-37 degrees Celsius
- Moisture – water leaks, rain, humidity, and flooding, etc.
Some decking material is naturally more resistant to mould, especially when treated and sealed regularly. But mould and mildew are pesky little things that can find that one vulnerable spot and set up shop.
Getting Rid of Mould and Mildew
Getting rid of mould and mildew can be a time-consuming process, especially if the spores have already burrowed into your deck. Once it does that, it can spread like wildfire. So make sure to check your deck regularly and get rid of any mould as soon as you spot it.
The easiest way to get rid of mould and mildew is with products made purely for that purpose. There are dozens of options, so shop around. Just make sure the product you choose is compatible with your decking material and won’t cause more damage!
Most mould removal products are bleach-based, i.e., harsh and not ecofriendly. However, there are more natural and gentler options out there, so do some research to find the best product to suit you. Home remedies such as white vinegar or baking soda and water mixtures are also effective (don’t mix vinegar and baking soda unless you like a foaming mess!).
You can also use clove or tea tree oil solutions, which are both powerful anti-fungal remedies. Pressure washing a deck is another popular method to get rid of mould and mildew. But beware because it can actually push those horrible mould spores deeper into the wood of your deck – making them harder to get rid of.
Lastly, the most important things you’ll need are a healthy dose of elbow grease and an afternoon or two of free time.
Call DeckSeal if Your Deck Needs Fixing
Your outdoor area is an extension of your living areas; it’s part of your home. And the best way to get rid of mould and mildew is to prevent them from ever taking root in the first place. But if the worst has come and your decking timber has already started to rot, then give us a call at DeckSeal! We can come and remove the mould by using other deck cleaning methods and deck sanding if necessary.
We can replace any rotting timber and get your deck back to looking as good as new so you can go back to enjoying the outdoors (without all that nature invading!).
