If your deck is located in a shady or wet location, chances are, there will be mold and mildew. Having this on your deck is never a good sign. A deck built too close to the ground can allow mold and mildew to multiply. However, it doesn’t mean that you cannot get rid of mold and mildew. The best way to control mold and mildew is to clean your deck regularly. However, when you fail to do this, you can still find a solution to your problem. The appearance of mold and mildew should not be taken for granted before it can cause some serious deck problems. Follow the tips below to help you minimize the appearance of mold and mildew in your deck.

• Clean it with Sodium Percarbonate

To remove mold from a deck, you need to clean the surface first with a cleaner that contains sodium percarbonate.  If you don’t have any, you can use a mixture of bleach and water. Bleach on wood can be damaging but you need to get rid of the mold as early as possible. Once you get rid of the mold, make sure you recoat the surface with a protective deck stain. For composite decking, a proper sealer is necessary to increase its protection against mold.

• Use a pressure washer

You can also consider using a pressure washer to clean mold. However, be extra careful not to use too much pressure as it can easily damage the wood. After that, don’t forget to rinse your deck thoroughly with the help of a garden hose. It is also important that you frequently sweep your deck as it is one of the best ways to prevent mold and mildew growth. Protect your deck and keep it beautiful for longer, be wary of any mold or mildew appearance. 

• Use baking soda

If you can't clean your deck with a pressure washer, the next option that does the magic is the use of baking soda. Add a cup of baking soda to a gallon of water and use it as a detergent. Scrub away the loose spores of mold and mildews on your deck, and then rinse them with water using your garden hose. You can also use water mixed with vinegar as an anti-mildew spray. Just be very careful not to mix baking soda with the vinegar to prevent a mess of soda bubbles on your deck. 

• Give it enough sunlight

The best enemy of a wooden deck is darkness and dampness; the best elements for mold and mildews to thrive. To keep mold away from your deck as far as possible, allow sunlight to pass by it. Consider clearing tall trees and branches that may be shielding sunlight from it. Enough sunlight will dry up moisture quicker.

• Use an all-weather sealant

The number one problem of owning a wooden deck is the growth of mold and mildews. Once mold grows on the surface, your deck will be more susceptible to discoloration and rotting. Using an all-weather and waterproof sealant will protect your wooden deck from the rain as well as mold and mildews. Choose a sealant that is appropriate for the type of wood used on your deck.