Can you clean composite or Trex decks?+
Yes, composite and Trex deck cleaning is one of our specialties. These boards look great but they need a very different approach than traditional wood. High-pressure washing can fuzz the surface, strip the protective cap layer, leave streak marks, and even void your manufacturer warranty. We use a low-pressure soft wash with deck-safe cleaning solutions that lift mold, mildew, pollen, and the gray buildup that makes composite decks look tired. Your boards come out brighter and the cap layer stays fully protected.
Will cleaning remove black and green stains?+
Green algae and surface mildew almost always come off completely — that's an easy win and the visual difference is dramatic. Deeper black staining, common on older pressure-treated wood that's been sitting wet for years, can be tougher because the discoloration is actually inside the wood grain. We can almost always lighten it significantly, and a brightening treatment can restore much of the original color. We'll take an honest look at your deck before we start and tell you exactly what kind of result to expect.
Should I clean my deck before staining?+
One hundred percent yes. Stain or sealer applied over a dirty deck won't bond properly, will look blotchy, and won't last anywhere near as long as it should. A professional cleaning removes dirt, mildew, old failing finish, and the gray oxidized layer on the wood, opening up the pores so new stain can penetrate evenly. After cleaning, we recommend letting your boards fully dry — usually 48 to 72 hours — before staining for the best long-term result.
How often should I clean my deck?+
For most South Shore decks, once a year is the right cadence — usually in spring before deck season really gets going. Decks that are heavily shaded, surrounded by trees, or close to the coast tend to grow algae and mildew faster, and those may benefit from a cleaning every six months. Regular cleaning isn't just cosmetic; it extends the life of your boards, helps preserve your stain or sealer, and keeps the deck safer to walk on by removing slippery organic buildup.