A well-maintained deck not only enhances the beauty of your outdoor space but also extends the lifespan of your timber. Merbau timber is built tough, but even the strongest materials need proper care to keep them looking sharp. Since Merbau is a hardwood with high natural oil content, regular merbau deck cleaning is crucial to keep it in top condition. Follow this step-by-step guide to clean your Merbau decking timber deck the right way.
Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.
STEPS
1. Clear the deck
First, get everything off the deck - outdoor furniture, potted plants, barbeques, and anything else that’s in the way. This will give you full access to every part of the surface and prevent any obstructions while cleaning and applying the topcoat. If possible, relocate these items to a sheltered area to avoid unnecessary exposure to dust or moisture.
2. Sweep the deck
Once it's clear, grab your broom and give it a solid sweep to clear away dirt, leaves, and any other debris that’s piled up. Focus on removing loose dirt, leaves, and any other debris that may have settled between the deck boards. Pay extra attention to corners and gaps, as they tend to accumulate more buildup. If your deck has been exposed to heavy foot traffic or prolonged outdoor exposure, consider using a blower for a more efficient cleanup.
3. Wet the deck
Next, you’ll start the cleaning process. Before applying your deck cleaner, wet down the entire surface of the deck with water. This helps prevent the cleaning solution from drying too fast, allowing it to work properly to refresh the Merbau timber.
4. Apply deck cleaner and scrub
Mix up a cleaning solution using a timber-friendly deck cleaner and warm water in a bucket. Grab your stiff-bristled broom or scrubbing brush and start working the solution into the timber. Focus on the areas with built-up grime, but make sure to scrub evenly across the whole deck. Stay away from harsh chemicals or bleach as they can strip the natural oils from the timber.
5. Rinse thoroughly
Once you've scrubbed it down, rinse everything off using a garden hose or a power pressure washer on a low setting. Keep the nozzle at a safe distance to avoid damaging the wood, and use a gentle spray pattern to wash away the dirt and soap. Since Merbau contains natural tannins, it’s common for reddish-brown water to run off during rinsing - this is normal and will reduce over time.
6. Inspect for missed spots
After rinsing, check the Merbau deck for any areas that might need a little more attention. If necessary, give these spots a quick re-scrub and rinse again. If you’ve got stains that won’t budge, use a specialised timber stain remover. For any mould or mildew, hit it with a diluted vinegar solution or a commercial anti-mold treatment. Scrub the problem spots and then rinse everything down again. If tannin bleed is staining nearby surfaces, a mix of oxalic acid and water can help remove the discolouration.
7. Let the deck dry and maintain
Finally, leave the deck to dry completely before putting anything back on it. Depending on the weather, this could take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours. Letting it dry properly prevents moisture buildup and keeps the timber in top shape.
Regular upkeep will keep your deck looking solid for years. Sweep it frequently to keep dirt and debris from building up. Clean up spills as soon as they happen to prevent long-term staining. Check for cracks or splintering and deal with them early before they become a bigger issue. If your Merbau deck starts looking dry or faded, reapply a protective oil to restore its natural beauty and durability. Stick to these steps, and your Merbau timber deck will stay looking incredible no matter what the seasons throw at it.
