Maintenance Guide
3 Tips for Cleaning a Wood Deck
Regular cleaning is the most important maintenance step for any wood deck in South Florida. The combination of humidity, salt air, UV exposure, and organic growth means decks here need more frequent attention than in drier climates. These three tips apply to most wood deck types — with specific notes for Ipe and other hardwoods.
Clean With the Grain, Not Against It
Always scrub a wood deck with the grain of the boards — not across it. Scrubbing against the grain raises the wood fibres, creates micro-scratches that trap dirt, and can make the surface feel rough underfoot. Use a soft-bristle brush for routine cleaning and a medium-bristle brush for heavier mildew or algae. This applies to both hardwoods and composite decking.
Use the Right Cleaner for Your Material
Not all deck cleaners are appropriate for all materials. Chlorine bleach can strip colour from Ipe and other hardwoods. High-pH cleaners can damage composite decking warranties. For Ipe and hardwoods, use oxygen bleach (sodium percarbonate) or a dedicated hardwood deck cleaner. For composite and PVC, mild soap and water or oxygen bleach are generally safe — but check your product's warranty documentation first.
Rinse Thoroughly and Let It Dry Before Oiling
After cleaning, rinse the deck thoroughly with clean water to remove all cleaning solution residue. Residue left on the surface can interfere with oil penetration and cause uneven colour. In South Florida's humidity, allow the deck to dry completely — typically 24–48 hours in good weather — before applying any oil or finish. Applying oil to a damp deck traps moisture and can lead to mildew under the finish.
Routine cleaning extends the life of your deck and reduces the frequency of full refinishing. For Ipe decks, we recommend cleaning once or twice per year and re-oiling every 1–2 years depending on sun exposure.