How To Remove Green Mildew From Deck? Ultimate Guide

Helen Skeates
Helen Skeates
28 min read

After a period of excessive humidity, if your deck appears green, you may have green mildew on it. How to remove green mildew from deck is covered in the following guide.

Seeing your deck turn green is a huge turn-off, and the slippery texture makes it much more risky. Remove this and you’ll be able to enjoy a clean deck.

What Is Green Mold on Wood

To avoid green mold growth, avoid areas that are shaded or have a lot of moisture or debris. Before becoming furry or fuzzy, black blotches called’shadows’ are common. A mold’s color might vary based on the type of mold, the environment in which it grows, and the material it is feeding on.

An expert is needed to identify the specific species of mold or fungus because there are over 100,000 of them. There are several varieties of green mold. Aspergillum, Cladosporium, and Penicillium molds can all have greenish hues, as can other types of mold.

Help! My Patio Deck is Turning Green!

If you see green mold on your deck boards, it’s possible that it’s not mildew at all. Although mold and mildew are both fungi, they are not the same thing. From light greenish to black, the green mold might be sticky or fuzzy. There are a number of ways that mildew can appear, but the most common is as yellow patches that eventually turn grayish white, then brown or greenish. An organic material’s internal structure is not immune to mold. The mildew grows and spreads on the surface. Even though they aren’t the same, they both want moist, dark environments to thrive in.

Is Green Mold Dangerous?

You might think it’s less of a health risk to have green mold growing on your deck, but it’s still a problem. Asthmatics, allergy sufferers, and individuals with other respiratory ailments are particularly vulnerable to the airborne spores released by mold. Mold spores can easily enter your home through screens on decks, which are frequently positioned close to dwellings.

Certain varieties of mold have been associated to blood poisoning (sepsis) and even brain infections, as well as headaches, rashes, and nervous-system abnormalities. Memory loss, sadness, mood fluctuations, dizziness, and exhaustion have all been related to it. Despite the fact that green mold may not kill you, it can have a significant impact on your health.

What Causes Green Mold

Organic substance, such as wood, can be decomposed by mold, a fungus. Even in the most sanitary of environments, there is always the potential for mold to grow. Basements, attics, and bathrooms are ideal habitats for mold growth since they are all moist, shadowed, or gloomy. That being the case, why is it growing on your deck when it’s so nice out?

Mold thrives on wood decks because they’re made of organic materials, and if the conditions are just right, it will. Outdoor decks are subjected to a wide range of weather conditions, and may remain wet for weeks or even months if they haven’t been properly cleaned and stained. Mold thrives under conditions where sunshine cannot penetrate and dry the wood, such as those found in trees and shrubs.

Even lattice screens can help keep wood from drying out by providing shade and protecting it from the sun’s rays. Seasonal shade can be provided by trees and bushes, as well as by leaves that have fallen on the boards and degrade. Drying the wood and preventing mold formation on the deck’s top and bottom planks are made possible by the airflow over and under the deck. In order to avoid having to remove green mold from your deck every year, ensure that as much of the surface area as possible is accessible to air or sunshine..

Green Mildew On Deck

It’s possible that the green mold on your deck isn’t mildew at all. The word “green mold” refers to mildew that has fully grown and developed its green color.

Molds can penetrate deeper into objects than mildew can, since mildew can only develop on the surface. Moisture and high humidity is ideal for both plants.

According to Look Mold, green mold isn’t just a single species of mold. When noticed, it has a greenish cast to it, therefore that’s how it got its name.

Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Cladosporium are the three most prevalent green molds. Spoilt food, walls, cabinets, and damp objects can all harbor this fungus.

Mould that starts out as dark patches and eventually becomes fuzzy forms on moist wood.

Mold and mildew love organic materials like wood, which is why they grow on it. You can make it your home if the right conditions are in place.

You may learn more about removing mold from a deck by reading this article. Additional deck-dwelling molds will be covered here.. read on to learn more.

Is green mildew dangerous?

Because it’s harder for mold and mildew to spread when it grows outside than it is indoors, mildew and mold are less of a health risk when they’re outside. However, spores can still reach your home if your deck is positioned near your residence.

For a long period of time, inhaling these spores might have a negative impact on one’s health. Coughing, sneezing, itchy skin, headaches, and difficulty breathing are just a few of the side effects that might result from exposure to it.

Mildew wouldn’t kill you, but it can still cause deterioration to your health. So, please don’t put it off and let it grow, but take it seriously and give it the attention it deserves.

If you’re interested in learning more about what causes green mold, you might want to check out this article first. After the green mold has been removed, this can help prevent it from regrowing.

Methods For Removing Green Mold/Mildew

Mold, algae, and moss can all be removed with the same products and techniques used to remove green mildew. Wearing gloves, eye protection, and a respirator are all necessary precautions before beginning the removal process.

You can utilize the following strategies to accomplish your goal:

Method #1. Detergent mixed with water

Mix detergent and water in a bucket. The affected region should be treated with the solution, then scrubbed with a brush before being washed out with warm water.

Method #2. White vinegar

Vinegar combined with water is all that is required for this procedure. Spray a watering can or a spray bottle with this combination and let it soak in for a few minutes.

Use a brush or broom to scrub and brush away the molds and mildews after you apply the solution. Clean water should be used to finish the job.

Method #3. Baking soda

To begin, combine one cup of baking soda with a gallon of water and apply it to the affected region with a brush, scrubbing as you go along. Finally, flush it with water to remove any remaining dirt and grime.

Method #4. Hydrogen peroxide (3%)

Make a solution of hydrogen peroxide and water and store it in a spray bottle for ease of use. Leave the solution on the mold or mildew portion for 10 minutes before rinsing the area with water to remove any remaining residue.

Method #5. Pressure washer

Be sure to follow the instructions in the power washer’s manual when adding detergent. Use the soap dispenser’s included nozzle to do this.

Apply the solution in a sweeping motion, beginning at the farthest edge. Make sure to scrape the hard-to-reach areas using a brush.

After the solution has been applied, widen the nozzle and carefully sweep the area to remove any remaining solution. Finally, rinse the deck with clean water to eliminate any remaining residue.

Mold and mildew removal can be a grueling undertaking. There are several factors to consider when deciding to hire a professional for the job.

You may learn more about hiring a mold removal professional by reading this article.

How to Remove Green Mold From Wood Deck

Green on wood deck boards would not be a good sign, especially if the wood didn’t start that color. The green tinge may be caused by mold, mildew, algae, or moss on deck surfaces. In order to avoid costly repairs and health problems, you’ll need to get rid of any residue.

Green on wood deck boards would not be a good sign, especially if the wood didn’t start that color. The green tinge may be caused by mold, mildew, algae, or moss on deck surfaces. In order to avoid costly repairs and health problems, you’ll need to get rid of any residue.

1. Pressure Washer

A deck board that is green is a bad indicator, especially if the wood was not green to begin with. Mold, mildew, algae, or moss growing on the deck could be the source of the green tint. It doesn’t matter what it is, you’ll want to clean it up before it causes damage, expensive repairs, or health problems.

When using a cleaning solution or detergent in the power washer, consult the owner’s manual first. Use the soap dispensing nozzle specified by the manufacturer. Sweep the solution across the planks in a sweeping manner from the farthest side or corner of the board. Do a thorough cleaning of the entire deck. Clean hard-to-reach places and spots with mold with the scrub brush.

After cleaning and scrubbing the deck, switch to the biggest nozzle or attachment available. The nozzle should be held 18 to 24 inches from the surface of the deck, and a sweeping motion should be used to wash it in a circular manner. Remove any remaining cleaning residue from the deck by giving it a last rinse in fresh water once the second wash has finished. This is one of the best methods on how to clean moss off decks, as well as removing algae, mildew, and mold.

2. Mold Mildew and Algae Stain Remover

After cleaning and scrubbing the deck, switch to the biggest nozzle or attachment available. The nozzle should be held 18 to 24 inches from the surface of the deck, and a sweeping motion should be used to wash it in a circular manner. Remove any remaining cleaning residue from the deck by giving it a last rinse in fresh water once the second wash has finished. This is one of the best methods on how to clean moss off decks, as well as removing algae, mildew, and mold.

Switch to the biggest nozzle or attachment after cleaning and scrubbing the deck. Maintain an 18 to 24-inch distance from your deck and wash it in a circular motion that follows the wood grain. Rinse the deck completely with clean water after the second wash to remove all cleaning residue. In addition to removing moss, algae, and mildew from decks, this is a highly effective approach for cleaning them.

Wet & Forget products contain no bleach and aren’t acidic or caustic. They should be applied on a morning with mild temperatures and no chance of rain for at least four hours. Spray or mop the solution on, and you’re done. There is no rinsing or scrubbing needed. A second soak should be done 4 to 5 weeks after the first one if the stain is particularly severe.

Wet & Forget products contain no bleach and aren’t acidic or caustic. They should be applied on a morning with mild temperatures and no chance of rain for at least four hours. Spray or mop the solution on, and you’re done. There is no rinsing or scrubbing needed. A second soak should be done 4 to 5 weeks after the first one if the stain is particularly severe.

3. Chlorine Bleach

Wet & Forget products contain no bleach and aren’t acidic or toxic. Temperatures should be moderate and there should be no rain for at least four hours before applying the sealant. Spray or mop the solution on, and you’re done. There is no rinsing or scrubbing needed. There should be a second soak 4 to 5 weeks after the first one.

None of our products are bleach- or acid- or caustic-free. Temperatures should be moderate and there should be no rain for at least four hours before applying the sealant. Spray or mop the solution onto the surface, and you’re finished. Rinsing and scrubbing are not required. After 4 to 5 weeks, you should re-soak any deep or intense stains.

Oxygen bleach can be used in place of chlorine bleach. Because it’s non-toxic, biodegradable, and non-hazardous to humans or the environment, it’s perfect for cleaning. 1 cup oxygen bleach, 1/2 cup borax, and 1/8 cup dish soap go into 1 gallon of warm water. Use a mop and bucket, a spray bottle, or a pump sprayer to apply it. Rinse well after using a scrub brush to massage the product into the wood for 15 minutes. In order for the wood luster and natural pH to be restored, it will need to be brightened once it has been cleaned.

4. Hydrogen Peroxide

Mold and mildew can be removed from a deck using hydrogen peroxide (3 percent). Fill a spray bottle halfway with hydrogen peroxide and the rest with water. For 10 minutes, apply it to the affected area and let it dry. For minor spots, use a sponge to remove it; for larger ones, use fresh water to remove it. Use caution around clothing and fibers, since it works like bleach.

Do not dilute concentrated hydrogen peroxide (25-30 percent) while cleaning moss from wood decks. Spray the peroxide directly on the moss while wearing gloves, a mask, and safety glasses. Allow the peroxide to do its work after soaking the moss. Once the moss has dried, it can be scraped or pressure washed away. If the moss has roots, a second spray may be necessary to eradicate them. Make sure to add brightener to bring back the wood’s shine and restore the wood’s natural pH after cleaning and removing moss.

Why Is My Composite Decking Going Green?

5. Baking Soda

However, baking soda can be used to remove stains and imperfections from surfaces. Apply a scrub brush and a cup of baking soda to a gallon of warm water to remove green mold off wood.

To remove the fungus from the wood, apply the solution with a brush and work it into the grain. The mixture can be used to wash the whole deck, or just applied to the moldy areas. Rinse with fresh water when done.

6. Clean Deck With Vinegar

To remove the fungus from the wood, apply the solution with a brush and work it into the grain. The mixture can be used to wash the whole deck, or just applied to the moldy areas. Rinse with fresh water when done.

7. Homemade Wood Deck Cleaner

To remove the fungus from the wood, brush the solution into the grain of the wood. When it comes to cleaning the deck, the combination can be used for the whole thing or just the moldy spots. Rinse off with clean water when you’re done cleaning.

There were no goods to be discovered. Pour 3 gallons of warm water and 1 cup of laundry soap on a wood deck to clean it. If you want to get rid of mold or mildew, you must pay attention to the type of laundry soap you use. A product that claims to kill or eliminate fungus, filth, and grease should be your first port of call. A pump-sprayer or bucket and scrub brush can be used for application of the mixture. To get rid of the fungus, use it on the infected boards and scrub well. When you’re finished, give the deck a good rinse with plenty of water.

A solution of 1 cup of No products found. (TSP) in a gallon of water can be used to remove algae and mold and mildew from wood decks. Gloves and eye protection are strongly advised because the mixture will produce an alkaline solution upon mixing. Apply with a pump sprayer or a bucket and brush. If at all possible, avoid raising or “furring” the board surfaces by scrubbing in the direction of the grain. As a result, it may require more scrubbing effort to remove the algae or mold. Rinse the surface completely with fresh water after it is clean.

How Do I Stop Algae Growing on My Deck?

If you want to keep algae from growing on your wood deck, you need sufficient airflow over and under the boards to keep them dry. In the same way that mold and mildew thrive in warm, damp environments, algae does as well. Algae can be removed from wood decks in a variety of methods, one of which is by using deck algae cleaning. Algae can be removed by using oxygen bleach or vinegar or hydrogen peroxide or TSP solutions.

The first step is to remove the foliage from the top layer of the wood without hurting it. Using a pump sprayer or a scrub brush, apply the cleaner or other solutions in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. When working with wood, work with the grain. Rinse the wood completely with clean water after the algae has been removed.

How to Use Organic Deck Cleaner

Your composite or wood deck will ultimately show signs of deterioration, no matter how often you clean it. You may, however, dramatically extend the longevity of your deck by scrubbing it annually with an organic deck cleanser and applying a sealer. Organic options will be provided for customers who choose a completely natural deck cleaning solution in the event that chlorine bleach is necessary to remove the tougher stains and mildew on their decking surfaces

Allowing your composite decking to accumulate dirt and grime can dull and age it, despite the fact that it adds beauty and value to your home. Cleansing and sealing the deck not only protects it from harmful contaminants, but they also make it look more appealing.

Composite Deck Cleaning Products

You’ll need the following materials to give your decking a thorough cleaning in preparation for its annual seal:

  • Materials needed for a thorough cleaning of your deck prior to its annual seal include:.
  • Power washer (for larger decks)
  • A high-powered pressure washer (for larger decks)
  • Puffer’s knife
  • answer to cleaning dilemmas
  • The smell of freshly-boiled water
  • Bucket
  • Oxygen bleach (OxiClean)

DIY Organic Deck Cleaner Recipes

All-Purpose Cleaner

warm water, approximately one gallon

34 cup of bleach with oxygen

Pour the solution over the deck after properly mixing the components listed above. Rinse or scrub with a deck brush after 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the severity of the stains. If you opt to use a power washer, always follow the manufacturer’s directions.

Heavy-Duty Mildew Remover

An entire gallon of water

2 mugs of alcohol for cleaning

1 quart of bleach for the home

Pour the mixture evenly over the deck after thoroughly mixing the ingredients. To get rid of tough mildew and algae stains, use a scrubbing brush and a lot of elbow grease.

100% Organic Homemade Deck Cleaner

a quart of water

1 cup of apple cider vinegar

1 cup of apple cider vinegar

a liter of apple cider vinegar per person

How to Clean Your Deck

If you don’t keep your deck clean throughout the year, organic matter like leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris may accumulate, causing stains and ruining the surface. Once or twice a year, depending on the weather in your area, you should undertake a deep clean.

To begin, use a stiff-bristled brush to remove any dirt that has accumulated on the deck. This is where you’ll need a knife if you don’t want to risk spreading the problem to the rest of the deck.

Next, protect your plants from the cleaning solution by covering them with a plastic sheet. We’d also propose using the organic solution in case the vinegar or lemon acidity affects the vegetation.

Inspect for symptoms of mildew and algae as directed by each recipe’s specific directions. If required, repeat the procedure. Use the heavy-duty mildew remover and scrape if the spots persist. A sealer can be applied after the deck has dried completely to keep it looking new for the foreseeable future.

Using a Pressure Washer

Anyone with a large deck will benefit greatly from pressure washing, but it isn’t a necessity. If you don’t want to invest in a piece of this equipment, you can rent it instead.

At least two feet should separate the nozzle from the deck when using a power washer. When using a powerful instrument, you could inadvertently injure yourself by holding it too close to the table. To avoid any potential harm, make sure you follow the directions provided by the product’s creators exactly.

Deck Wash Tips

In order to get the most out of deck cleaning, here are some additional tips:

  • Before beginning the cleaning, make sure to cover all of your favorite plants, bushes, and flower beds.
  • Don’t forget to clean the railings and steps.
  • Make sure the solution you use doesn’t harm or discolor the decking by conducting a little test first. There is a chance that different types of wood and cleaning products may interact in an undesirable way.
  • Garden hoses work just as well as power washers if you don’t have one, but it takes more time and effort.
  • Mildew and other tough stains can be easily removed with oxygen bleach, which is gentler than regular chlorine bleach.
  • Inspect for splintered edges, loose nails, damage and rough patches during the cleaning procedure
  • Prevent sun spots and fading by moving furniture around on a regular basis.
  • Do not allow natural debris to accumulate. Mildew and other long-term stains are almost always the result of this.
  • Natural fiber mats and furniture are more susceptible to mildew than synthetic fiber products.
  • Apply a sealer every year to protect wood from the sun’s rays, weathering, and temperature fluctuations. A penetrative sealer can extend the life of your deck by several years.

Get the Deck of Your Dreams Today

Maintaining your deck is the least fun part of the process, but it’s essential if you want to get the most enjoyment out of it. In the event that you don’t already have bespoke decking, contact Prince William Home Improvement at 866-598-7692 right away.

FAQs

How do I get rid of green mold on my deck?

To remove green mold off wood, mix a cup of baking soda with a gallon of warm water and use a scrub brush to apply it. To remove the fungus from the wood, apply the solution with a brush and work it into the grain. When it comes to cleaning the deck, the combination can be used for the whole thing or just the moldy spots. Rinse off with clean water when you’re done cleaning.

What kills algae on decking?

Wet & Forget offers quick and effective cleaning solutions that are devoid of bleach and caustic and acidic chemicals. For at least a year, the wind and rain break down the algae, lichen, and mold, keeping them at bay.

How do you remove mildew from a wood deck?

Hydrogen peroxide and soda ash are the main ingredients in oxygen bleach. Mold spores can be cleaned with this product, which is one of the “greenest” on the market. Just follow the manufacturer’s instructions and apply the magic solution with a scrubbing brush to the deck. Finally, use a hose to thoroughly clean your deck.

Wet & Forget | Wet, Before after photo, Outdoor structures

Why is my wood deck turning green?

When moisture is trapped in the pores of the wood for an extended period of time, the surface of the patio can turn green. In damp conditions like this, mildew, mildew, and algae grow. Otherwise, a slimy film may form and then turn green on the wooden patio if left unattended.

What kills mold better bleach or vinegar?

If you’re trying to get rid of mold, vinegar works much better than bleach. Except in exceptional circumstances, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does not advise the use of bleach for the purpose of killing or removing mold. Even when bleach is used, there will still be “a low quantity of mold spores” in the air.

How do you remove mildew from deck railings?

To clean off any mold, mildew, or debris, start with a simple soap solution made with detergent and water. Alternatively, you can also use a solution of vinegar and water. To ensure that the cleaner is safe to use on the remainder of your railing, begin by cleaning a small area of your railing first.

What is the best homemade deck cleaner?

To clean off any mold, mildew, or debris, start with a simple soap solution made with detergent and water. Alternatively, you can also use a solution of vinegar and water. To ensure that the cleaner is safe to use on the remainder of your railing, begin by cleaning a small area of your railing first.

  • Begin by making a simple soap solution from liquid detergent and water to remove any mold, mildew, or other gunk that has built up. You can also use a vinegar-and-water mix as an alternative. Clean a small area of your railing first, to ensure that the cleaner you’ve chosen is safe for the remainder of it.
  • 1 liter of liquid. Rubbing Alcohol: 2 Cups. You’ll need one gallon of regular bleach. 1-cup dishwashing liquid free of ammonia and other harsh chemicals.
  • 1 liter of liquid. The vinegar is 1 cup of apple cider. The juice of half a lemon. Battering soda in equal parts:

How do you get rid of green mold on wood?

Pour one part baking soda into a spray bottle with one part water. Spray the mold-infested area with the solution, working from the outside in. Ten minutes later, restart the application. The mold can be removed with a sponge that has been soaked in water.

Can you use Clorox to clean a deck?

In a plastic bucket or container, mix 1 gallon of water with 234 cups of CloroxTM ProResults® Outdoor Bleach. On horizontal surfaces, use a brush or broom to apply the bleach solution; on vertical surfaces, use a sponge or mop. Scrubbing heavily filthy areas may necessitate considerable effort. Five minutes is all that is required for the disinfection process.

Will bleach damage wood deck?

When applied to wood, however, it has disastrous results. Natural wood color is removed by chlorine bleach, the glue that links wood fibers together is destroyed, metal deck fasteners and hardware can corrode, and vegetation can be killed.

Conclusion

How to remove green mildew from deck is essential if you want to get rid of the unattractive green mold or mildew that has taken over your deck. This task would be easier if you had the support of the methods outlined earlier.

There is a huge impact regardless of what hue it is. As soon as you notice mildew or mold growing in your house, it’s possible you have a moisture problem that needs immediate attention.

Don’t put your health or the health of your family at risk; take immediate action.

Helen Skeates

Helen Skeates

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