Tag

deck mold

Mold and Mildew on Wood Decks

Black Mildew Deck

One of the most common natural occurrences that plague decks are mold and mildew. Mold is the term that most people refer to when they see green algae, moss, lichen, and fungal growth. Mildew on decks is commonly seen as small black spots that can be imbedded in the wood or an old stain. Without getting too technical, mold is a good general term for explaining this nasty contaminant that is seen growing on decks all across the country. One deck may by more prone to mold than another deck depending on its location. Climate, region, shade, sun exposure, and humidity all play a part in mold and fungal growth. In fact, some deck stains are even more prone to mold than others.

Mold on decks can cause a variety of problems. Obviously, unsightly appearance is one major concern. There is nothing worse than a green deck floor that is suffering from mold issues. Mold can also be treacherous to walk on especially when wet. Mold and fungal growth are very slippery and have no place on deck flooring or steps. You might as well put out a “slippery when wet” sign to keep from getting sued. To be serious though it can be extremely dangerous. Some of the other not so commonly known problems with mold is wood rot and decay. Mold can only survive when it has enough moisture. This constant moisture wreaks havoc on a deck’s surface. The damage can be superficial or can go as far as to cause major structural damage.

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Best Deck Cleaner for Mold on Decks 2017

Wood decks are not naturally resistant to mold. When speaking of “mold” on decks, mold is a general term people commonly use to describe what might be moss, lichen, green algae, mildew, or other types of fungal growth. Mold is like the universal word to cover anything green or spore-like growing places it should not be growing like on your deck. Mold on decks can cause problems besides just being treacherous to walk on when wet. The issue with mold on decks can range from completely unsightly to decay, wood rot, and major structural damage. The good news is that mold can be removed from decks using common deck cleaning methods.

The best way to rid mold on decks is to use the right cleaner. The best deck cleaner for mold on decks is not bleach. Bleach will kill mold but it can also break down the cellular structure of the wood fibers and dry out the natural oils. Avoid using bleach for wood cleaning at all costs. Bleach based deck cleaners should also be avoided as they can damage the wood’s lignin. In addition, bleach is only an average cleaner of dirt and grime that also need to be cleaned from the deck prior to staining.

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Why Mold is Attracted to Oil Based Stains

Most any exterior surface subjected to the elements is prone to natural occurrences like mold growth. Oil based stains are no different. Although they can provide years of protection to exterior wood surfaces, they can be prone to mold in some circumstances. There are however some reasons that can increase mold attraction to oil based stain.

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How to Prevent Mold on a Deck

How to Prevent Mold on a Deck from returning.

One of the biggest enemies of a deck is mold. With moisture being ever so present outdoors, mold is bound to find its way onto your deck. Typically, mold will begin to appear on the more shaded sides of a deck. Anywhere there is less sun means there is more moisture present making conditions ideal for mold growth.

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Using Bleach to Clean Decks

Bleach and Wood Decks. Is it a good idea?

Bleach Is Bad For Wood

There is a lot of debate as to whether or not bleach or bleach-based products can be used to clean a wood deck. After all, bleach is cheap and readily available and has always been known as a household cleaner. To better understand this dilemma, let’s take a look at what bleach is.

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Black Mold and Deck Stains

Moldy Deck

Black Mold and why it Grows in Certain Deck Stains

Exterior deck stains are subjected to the elements making them prone to natural contaminants. A deck stain is there to shield the wood from harsh weather and the damage it can cause such as rot and decay. In providing protection sometimes the deck stain itself can be compromised.

Black mold is one of the natural occurrences that can affect a wood stains effectiveness and longevity. There are several reasons why black mold can grow on or in a deck stain but here are the most common reasons.

Over Applying Deck Stain

When a deck stain is over applied to the wood it can affect the curing or drying time of the stain. When this happens the deck stain remains tacky for several days or longer allowing dirt and tree pollen to become embedded. Once these contaminants have intruded the stain they can attract and begin to grow black mold even after the stain finally cures.

Tips: To avoid curing issues by over applying a wood stain, work in small areas or one board at a time. Let the stain soak into the wood for several minutes then use a brush or a stain rag to wipe any excess drips or puddles.

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Restore A Deck Cleaner and Brightener Kit Review 2014

Restore A Deck Kits

Important Note: This is our 2nd Review of the Restore A Deck Kits. See Here for First Review: Restore A Deck Cleaner and Brightener Kit

Restore A Deck cleaner is a specifically designed two-part system that is best used to clean and prep a wood deck prior to staining it. The Restore A Deck cleaner system consists of a wood cleaner that will remove dirt, grime, mold, mildew, and grayed wood fibers. Step 2 is a wood brightener that corrects the pH of the wood and brightens/lightens it up prior to applying a wood stain or sealer.

Restore-A-Deck comes in a powdered concentrated formula. Each 2 lb container makes 5 liquid gallons and can clean and brighten up to 1000 sq. feet. Simply pour each into a five-gallon container and add water to dissolve the powder concentrate.

The Restore a Deck Step 1 Cleaner contains an EPA registered ingredient that helps in the removal of mold, mildew, and algae.

Restore A Deck Cleaner and Brightener Scores (1-10)

Removal of Graying, Dirt, Grime: 9

The Restore-A-Deck Step 1 Deck Cleaner works wonders at removing dirt and graying. The active ingredient creates a slight foaming on the wood once applied. Once the graying and dirt has softened, we find it best to use a pressure washer at a low setting of 1500 PSI to “lightly wash” off the dirty slime.

Cost Per Square Foot: 10

Powdered deck prepping products are the way to go. Cheaper and more effective than bleach-based solutions. We have found that the Restore A Deck Kits are the best on the market today when it comes to price. The cost to clean and brighten an average 800 square foot deck is less than $.07 a foot.

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