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How to Clean a Pier

A pier overlooking the water is a great place to sit and look at ocean or lake views. It is also a good place for gathering with friends or family. However, because most piers are made of wood, they require regular maintenance to keep them looking clean. Wooden piers need to be scrubbed and rinsed regularly, especially if water birds congregate on it. They can leave behind feces that can discolor the wood over time.

Things You'll Need

  • Wooden deck cleaner
  • Firm synthetic bristle brush
  • Water hose
  • Power water hose nozzle
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Instructions

    • 1

      Rinse the pier thoroughly with water. Most wooden deck cleaners require that the wood is moist before application. Read the instructions carefully before watering the deck, however, because some cleaners suggest applying on dry wood.

    • 2

      Using a firm, synthetic bristle brush, scrub the entire pier with the cleaning solution. Do not allow the cleaning solution to puddle in any spots. Rather, apply it with even, smooth strokes.

    • 3

      Allow the cleaning solution to soak into the wood for about 15 to 20 minutes. Read the instructions on the cleaner carefully to see what amount of time is recommended.

    • 4

      Spray the deck thoroughly with water with a water hose with a power nozzle. It's important to rinse the entire area where the cleaner was applied.

    • 5

      Allow the deck to dry for 24 hours. If it still looks dirty, reapply the cleaner and rinse once again.