Clean Outdoor Wooden Surfaces

What happens in this clip

Begin by thoroughly cleaning any outdoor wooden surfaces, such as steps, decks, or walkways. Use a specialized deck cleaner or deck brightener to remove dirt, grime, and algae that can accumulate over time and make surfaces slick. Cleaning also helps to open up the pores of the wood, which naturally increases its traction. Ensure the cleaning product is suitable for the type of wood and always follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and rinsing. Allow the wood to dry completely before proceeding with any further treatments.

Goal: Prepare the surface for safety treatments

What's used

Tools

• Brush
• Deck brush
• Eye Protection
• Power Washer
• Safety Gloves

Materials

• Deck Cleaner or Brightener
• Sodium percarbonate cleaner
• grime
• and mildew from outdoor wood surfaces.
• Water

About the full video

This project outlines several methods to enhance the safety of outdoor wooden steps, decks, or walkways by making them less slippery. It covers cleaning the wood, applying peel-and-stick abrasive strips, and using a clear, spray-on anti-slip coating to prevent slips and falls.

Step 1 of 6: Clean the Steps

Sweep or blow away loose debris. Use a stiff brush and a cleaning solution (e.g., TSP substitute or a strong detergent mixed with water) to scrub away any embedded dirt, oil, or mildew. Rinse the steps thoroughly with a hose and allow them to dry completely. For stubborn stains or mildew, a pressure washer can be used on a low setting, being careful not to damage the wood or concrete.

Open this step in the guide

Other videos for this step

• Rinse and Dry Stairs
• Clean Porch and Steps