If you have decking at your home or business in Cornwall, you’ll already know how quickly it can lose its appearance — and become dangerously slippery — thanks to the coastal climate. Algae, moss, and grime don’t just affect how your decking looks; they actively shorten its lifespan and create safety risks.
Professional decking cleaning is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your outdoor investment, restore its natural appearance, and keep it safe year-round.
In this guide, we’ll explain why regular decking cleaning is essential in Cornwall, how it should be done properly, and why hiring a professional makes all the difference.
Why Decking Gets Dirty So Quickly in Cornwall
Cornwall’s environment is beautiful — but brutal on exterior surfaces.
Decking is constantly exposed to:
- High moisture levels
- Frequent rainfall
- Shade and limited airflow
- Salt in the air near coastal areas
These conditions create the perfect breeding ground for algae, moss, and lichen, especially on timber and composite decking.
Left untreated, this buildup:
- Makes decking extremely slippery
- Causes timber to rot and splinter
- Permanently stains the surface
- Leads to costly repairs or replacement
The Hidden Dangers of Dirty Decking
Many homeowners only think about decking cleaning when it looks bad — but the real problems are often invisible at first.
⚠️ Slip Hazards
Algae forms a slick biofilm that becomes treacherous when wet. Slips and falls on decking are far more common than people realise, particularly for children and older visitors.
🪵 Structural Damage
Moisture trapped beneath moss and grime accelerates rot, warping, and surface breakdown, dramatically shortening the life of timber decking.
💷 Reduced Property Appeal
Dirty decking can drag down the appearance of an otherwise well-maintained garden or patio — and it’s a major turn-off for buyers and guests.
How Professional Decking Cleaning Works
A professional decking clean is not the same as blasting it with a pressure washer.
At Jet Power Pressure Washing, decking cleaning is carried out using a controlled, surface-appropriate process designed to clean thoroughly without damage.
Step 1: Assessment
We identify:
- Timber vs composite decking
- Level of algae and staining
- Any loose boards or vulnerable areas
Step 2: Safe Cleaning Treatment
Specialist cleaning solutions are applied to:
- Kill algae at the root
- Break down organic growth
- Lift deep-seated grime safely
Step 3: Low-Pressure Rinse
Using the correct pressure ensures:
- No splintering
- No surface etching
- No damage to fixings or joints
Step 4: Optional Aftercare Advice
We’ll advise on:
- Maintenance intervals
- Anti-slip treatments
- Sealing or oiling (where appropriate)
DIY Decking Cleaning vs Professional Cleaning
| DIY Cleaning | Professional Decking Cleaning |
|---|---|
| Risk of damage | Surface-safe methods |
| Uneven results | Even, restored finish |
| Temporary improvement | Longer-lasting cleanliness |
| No algae root kill | Deep biological treatment |
High-pressure DIY cleaning often:
- Raises wood grain
- Causes splintering
- Forces water into joints
- Accelerates future deterioration
Professional cleaning protects, rather than damages, your decking.
How Often Should Decking Be Cleaned in Cornwall?
For most properties in Cornwall, we recommend:
- Once per year for light-use areas
- Twice per year for shaded, damp, or coastal locations
- Before summer for maximum visual impact and safety
Regular maintenance is far cheaper than repair or replacement.
Timber vs Composite Decking: Cleaning Differences
Timber Decking
- More prone to algae and rot
- Requires gentle, controlled cleaning
- Benefits greatly from regular professional care
Composite Decking
- Still suffers from algae buildup
- Can stain if left untreated
- Needs non-abrasive cleaning methods
Both types benefit enormously from professional cleaning tailored to the material.
Why Choose Jet Power Pressure Washing for Decking Cleaning in Cornwall?
We specialise in exterior cleaning across Cornwall and Devon, with a strong focus on safe, professional surface care.
✔ Fully insured
✔ Experienced with timber & composite decking
✔ Professional-grade equipment
✔ Surface-safe cleaning methods
✔ Local, reliable, and trusted
Our goal isn’t just to make your decking look better — it’s to extend its lifespan and keep it safe.
Decking Cleaning for Homes, Holiday Lets & Commercial Properties
Professional decking cleaning is ideal for:
- Residential gardens
- Holiday lets & Airbnb properties
- Hotels & guest houses
- Pubs & restaurants with outdoor seating
- Commercial outdoor areas
Clean decking creates a better first impression, improves safety, and protects your investment.
Request a Free Decking Cleaning Quote in Cornwall
If your decking looks tired, slippery, or overdue for maintenance, now is the perfect time to act.
👉 Contact Jet Power Pressure Washing today for a free, no-obligation decking cleaning quote anywhere in Cornwall or Devon.
Regular professional decking cleaning keeps your outdoor space:
- Safer
- Cleaner
- Longer-lasting
- Better looking
