What Homeowners in Truro, Newquay, Falmouth, St Austell, Plymouth & Exeter Need to Know
Decking looks fantastic in a Cornish or Devon garden — until it turns green, slippery and weather-worn.
Because of the region’s damp coastal climate, wooden and composite decking in Truro, Newquay, Falmouth, St Austell, Plymouth, Exeter, Torquay and surrounding villages can deteriorate far faster than in drier parts of the UK.
Below are the 10 most common questions homeowners across Cornwall & Devon ask about decking cleaning — and the professional answers.
1. Why Does Decking Turn Green So Quickly in Cornwall & Devon?
Cornwall and Devon experience:
- High rainfall
- Mild winters
- Coastal humidity
- Shaded gardens
- Long damp seasons
These conditions are ideal for algae growth.
Decking boards, especially timber, absorb moisture. When combined with shade (common in villages like Feock, Devoran, Totnes or Ivybridge), algae thrives and spreads quickly.
That green film isn’t just cosmetic — it’s slippery and potentially dangerous.
2. Is Green Decking Dangerous?
Yes.
Algae-covered decking becomes extremely slippery, especially after rainfall — which is frequent in Cornwall and Devon.
Slip hazards are one of the main reasons homeowners book professional decking cleaning. It’s a safety issue as much as an appearance issue.
If your decking feels slick underfoot, it’s time to act.
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3. Can I Pressure Wash My Decking Myself?
You can — but it’s risky.
Too much pressure can:
- Furrow timber
- Raise wood fibres
- Cause splintering
- Damage composite surfaces
- Shorten decking lifespan
DIY jet washers are one of the biggest causes of damaged decking in Cornwall & Devon.
Professional decking cleaning uses controlled pressure and appropriate techniques for the material type.
4. What’s the Difference Between Cleaning Timber and Composite Decking?
Timber Decking:
- Absorbs moisture
- Prone to algae and moss
- Requires careful pressure control
- May need re-oiling or sealing after cleaning
Composite Decking:
- Less absorbent
- Can still develop algae film
- Requires gentler methods
- May require specialist cleaning solutions
Every surface is assessed before cleaning to avoid damage.
5. How Often Should Decking Be Cleaned in Cornwall & Devon?
In most areas, once per year is recommended.
However, properties in:
- Coastal towns like Newquay, Falmouth and Torquay
- Tree-heavy areas like Totnes, Tavistock or Liskeard
- Shaded rural gardens
May require annual or even bi-annual cleaning.
Regular maintenance prevents deep staining and structural deterioration.
6. Can Decking Cleaning Remove Black Stains?
Yes — depending on the cause.
Black staining may be:
- Algae buildup
- Tannin bleed from timber
- Mould growth
- Weather-related staining
Professional cleaning can significantly improve appearance, but older decking may also benefit from sanding or re-treatment after cleaning.
7. Does Decking Cleaning Help Extend Its Lifespan?
Absolutely.
Algae retains moisture against timber, accelerating rot and decay.
Regular professional cleaning:
- Removes harmful organic growth
- Reduces moisture retention
- Protects structural integrity
- Extends usable life
Replacing decking is expensive. Maintaining it is not.
8. What Time of Year Is Best for Decking Cleaning?
Spring and early summer are ideal — especially before peak garden use.
However, decking cleaning can be carried out year-round in Cornwall and Devon’s relatively mild climate.
Many homeowners book cleaning:
- After winter algae buildup
- Before hosting events
- Before selling their home
9. Do You Clean Decking Alongside Other Exterior Surfaces?
Yes — and it’s often beneficial.
Decking cleaning is commonly combined with:
- Driveway and patio cleaning
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A full exterior refresh dramatically improves kerb appeal.
10. How Do I Book Decking Cleaning in Cornwall or Devon?
Booking is simple.
Jet Power Pressure Washing provides professional decking cleaning across:
Cornwall:
Truro, Newquay, St Austell, Falmouth, Penzance, Bodmin, Wadebridge, St Ives and surrounding villages.
Devon:
Plymouth, Exeter, Torquay, Paignton, Newton Abbot, Totnes, Ivybridge, Tavistock and nearby areas.
Request your free, no-obligation quote here:
👉 https://jetpowerpressurewashing.co.uk/contact-us/
Why Professional Decking Cleaning Is Essential in Coastal & Rural Areas
Decking in Cornwall & Devon faces harsher environmental exposure than most of the UK.
Salt air, heavy rainfall and shaded gardens create constant moisture conditions. Without maintenance, decking becomes:
- Slippery
- Discoloured
- Structurally weakened
- Expensive to replace
Professional decking cleaning restores safety, improves appearance and protects your investment.
