How to Clean Brazilian Redwood Decking

Properly treated redwood lasts for years.

Brazilian redwood decking, also known as massaranduba decking, is a naturally durable alternative to treated hardwood decking or composite decking. Although Brazilian redwood may cost more than other decking choices, its hardness and durability allows the consumer to buy thinner boards and experience the same durability as a cost-saving measure. Once installed, Brazilian redwood needs little care. A waterproof deck sealer applied every one or two years slows the natural graying process and cleaning once per year or as needed keeps the deck usable and preserves its beauty.

Things You'll Need

• 1 gallon water
• 3 tbsp. dishwashing detergent
• 2 cups oxygen non-chlorine bleach
• 1 cup rubbing alcohol
• Bucket
• Garden hose with sprayer
• Broom
• Stiff-bristled brush or broom

Instructions

1. Remove all furniture, appliances and other obstacles from the deck. Remove and dispose of any debris or trash on the deck.

2. Sweep the deck to remove dust and dirt particles that sit on the surface of the deck. Use a clean and dry stiff-bristled brush or broom or broom to brush away any excess residue from soiled areas of the deck.

3. Cover fragile plants that surround the deck with a tarp or plastic sheeting to protect them from the cleaning solution.

4. Spray the Brazilian redwood decking with the garden hose to rinse and prime for the cleaning solution. Mix water, dish detergent, bleach and alcohol in the bucket.

5. Apply the deck cleaning solution to the deck. Use the stiff-bristled brush or broom to scrub the solution into the wood, applying extra pressure in soiled areas. Rinse the deck with the garden hose and allow it to dry completely.

6. Treat remaining soiled areas or mold on the Brazilian redwood decking with a solution one part bleach diluted with four parts water. Allow the solution to sit on the stain for 15 minutes or longer. Scrub with the stiff-bristled brush or broom and rinse.

7. Repeat the cleaning process as necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a commercially-made deck cleaner instead of making your own cleaning solution if you prefer.

• Chlorine bleach discolors Brazilian redwood decking. Use non-chlorine bleach in the cleaning solution and try to remove as much mildew or lichen growth as possible with a brush or power sprayer before applying chlorine bleach to the area.

• Never mix bleach with ammonia to avoid a chemical reaction that creates harmful fumes.

References

• Simmen Lumber: Brazilian Redwood Decking
• Utah State University Cooperative Extension: 5 Cleanup Solutions for Your Home's Exterior

Resources

• University of Tennessee Extension: Decking Lumber Options