How to Eliminate Algae From Wooden Decks

Algae buildup is a common problem for wooden decks. While the blooms are harmless to the wood itself, they can coat your deck's surface with a fine, green film that is quite slippery and dangerous when dampened by dew or rain. Washing away the algae with soapy water may not fully kill the growth, and although power washing can remove it, the force of the spray may harm your decking. First eradicate the algae, then dry the wood. Sealing the deck is also effective in fighting algae.

Rubber gloves
Plastic tarps
Bristled broom
Hard-bristled brush
Bucket
Bleach
Rags
Hose with spray nozzle
Wood sealer
Paintbrush

Instructions

- 1
  Clear everything from the deck, especially plants. Cover plant life surrounding the deck with plastic tarps as the cleaning chemicals can kill them.
- 2
  Sweep the deck with a bristle broom, removing debris and dislodging large areas of algae growth.
- 3
  Mix 1 cup of water and 1 gallon of bleach in a metal bucket. Scrub the deck surface with rags soaked in the bleach solution, following the natural grain of the wood.
- 4
  Use the bristled-brush for stubborn growth. Rinse with a hose and spray nozzle. Allow the deck to fully dry for at least 48 hours.
- 5
  Seal the deck with a wood preservative, available at builder's supply and home improvement centers. Apply according to directions on the can. Further retard the growth of algae by keeping the deck swept and free of debris.

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