Wood deck cleaning and restoration for Rochester and Strafford County. Removes algae, mildew, and weathering. Ready for stain or sealer when we're done. Free estimates.
A wood deck in New Hampshire goes through a lot in a year. Spring pollen, summer humidity, fall leaves sitting wet on the boards, and then a winter of freeze-thaw cycles. By the time spring comes around, most decks in Rochester have a layer of green algae on the surface, gray-brown weathering on the exposed wood, and dark staining between the boards where moisture collects. A clean deck is not just better looking. The surface is also safer to walk on and takes stain and sealer properly, which is how you actually protect the wood long-term.
The key with deck cleaning is pressure control. Wood is softer than concrete, and too much pressure raises the wood grain, leaving the surface rough and fuzzy. We clean at pressure levels appropriate for the wood species and condition, working with the grain rather than against it. A deck that was cleaned correctly comes out smooth, with the wood grain visible and the color brightened. A deck that was blasted with too much pressure comes out looking worse than before.
We also clean between the boards. Debris and algae that accumulates in the gaps between deck boards holds moisture and is the main source of rot in older decks. After washing the surface, we angle the wand between the boards to flush those gaps clean. The result is a deck that is clean top to bottom, not just on the visible surface.
Furniture, grills, and potted plants are moved before we arrive. We do a quick inspection of the boards for damage or loose fasteners and let you know if we find anything concerning.
We apply a wood-safe cleaning solution that breaks down algae, mildew, graying, and tannin stains. This makes the washing significantly more effective than pressure alone.
We wash at appropriate pressure for wood. We work with the grain, not against it, to clean without damaging the wood fibers or raising the grain.
We flush the gaps between deck boards where algae and debris accumulate. This is where rot typically starts and where most DIY cleaning misses.
We rinse the full deck and walk it to confirm even cleaning. We note any boards that may need attention before staining. The deck is ready to dry and accept stain or sealer.
Common questions from Rochester homeowners about deck cleaning and restoration.
No obligation. We'll review your job and send a quote, usually within a few hours.