Deck & Fence Cleaning · Jacksonville, FL
Deck and Fence Cleaning in Jacksonville, FL
Wood turns gray and green fast in Florida. A careful cleaning brings back the color without tearing up the grain or leaving fuzzy, splintered boards.
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- Duval · Clay · St. Johns
Quick answer
Deck cleaning in Jacksonville should use low pressure and a wood safe cleaner, not a strong blast. Your pro wets the wood, applies the cleaner, lets it work, then rinses with a wide fan tip. A brightener can restore the natural tone. Once dry, the wood can be stained or sealed to slow the next round of graying.
Why Wood Weathers So Fast Here
Sun breaks down the surface of wood and turns it gray. Rain and humidity keep it damp, which feeds mildew and algae. Pine pollen and oak leaves add stains. A deck under trees in Mandarin or along a creek in Arlington may look green and slick within a year.
The University of Florida IFAS guide to algae and mildew notes that damp, shaded surfaces grow mildew fastest. Decks and fences fit that bill.
High Pressure Ruins Wood
Pressure treated pine is soft. A narrow tip or high pressure carves lines into it and raises the grain, leaving a fuzzy surface that splinters and soaks up water. Cedar is even softer. The goal is to let the cleaner do the work and use just enough pressure to rinse.
How It Is Done
- Clear and protect
Furniture, grills and plants come off the deck. Plants below get soaked with water.
- Apply a wood cleaner
A cleaner made for wood goes on and sits for a few minutes to loosen mildew and gray fibers.
- Rinse gently
Your pro rinses with low pressure, working with the grain, board by board.
- Brighten
A brightener can bring back the warm tone of the wood and prepare it for stain.
- Dry and check
Wood must dry fully before any stain or sealer. Your pro will tell you how long to wait.
Fences
Wood privacy fences, vinyl fences and aluminum pool fences all collect green growth on the shaded side. Vinyl cleans up well with a soft wash. Aluminum just needs a gentle wash and rinse. Wood fences get the same care as decks.
Be ready for the other side. If your fence faces a neighbor, your pro will need access or permission to clean that side.
Docks and Boardwalks
Homes along the St. Johns River, Julington Creek, the Ortega River and the Intracoastal often have docks. Dock cleaning takes extra care because the water is right below. Your pro should use products that are safe near water and keep runoff to a minimum. Ask about it up front, since not every pro does dock work.
After the Cleaning
Clean wood is ready to stain or seal. A penetrating stain protects from sun and water better than a clear coat. Many homeowners stain every two to three years. Your pro may offer staining or can recommend someone who does.
Deck and Fence Questions
Can I pressure wash my own deck?
You can, but most damage to decks comes from too much pressure. If you do it yourself, use a wide fan tip and a wood cleaner.
Do I need to stain after cleaning?
It is not required, but bare wood grays again quickly in our sun. Staining protects your cleaning.
How long before I can stain?
Usually a day or two of dry weather. Your pro can check moisture before staining.
Can you clean composite decking?
Yes. Composite decks get mildew too. They need a cleaner approved by the maker and low pressure.
Same day quote requests welcome
Get a Deck and Fence Quote
Send your address, the size of the deck or length of fence and a photo. A local pro will reach out with a free written quote. Request your quote or read how the process works.
More services
Other exterior cleaning services in Jacksonville
House Washing
Soft wash for siding, stucco and brick that kills mildew at the root.
Roof Cleaning
Low pressure removal of black algae streaks on shingle, tile and metal roofs.
Driveway & Concrete
Surface cleaning for driveways, walks, pool decks and patios.
Paver Cleaning & Sealing
Deep clean, fresh joint sand and a sealer that fights weeds and fading.
Gutter Cleaning
Pine needles and oak leaves cleared, downspouts flushed before storm season.
Window Cleaning
Salt film, pollen and hard water spots cleared from glass and screens.
Commercial Pressure Washing
Storefronts, sidewalks, dumpster pads and HOA common areas.