Keeping your pool area spotless goes beyond the water—a clean, well-maintained pool deck is essential to enjoying your outdoor space. Whether you have a sprawling concrete patio or intricate paver layout, knowing how to clean pool deck surfaces properly will protect your investment and improve your backyard’s appearance. For homeowners considering upgrades, The Deck Expert offers custom deck installations in Newtown, PA, and helps clients design outdoor spaces that are both beautiful and easy to maintain.
Start With the Right Supplies
Spend a few minutes beforehand gathering the right supplies. Preparation is everything—saving time and preventing potential damage to your deck. You will need a garden hose with a spray nozzle, a stiff-bristled broom, a deck material cleaner solution, and protective gear like gloves and goggles. For tough grime or stubborn stains that have accumulated, a scrub brush or power washer will provide some added punch.
After you’ve got your equipment in place, it’s time to clean the area. Take away any furniture, planters, pool accessories, or toys from the deck. Having a clean and clear area gives you room to thoroughly scrub every inch of your pool deck without being wedged into secret dirt or grime.
The Step-by-Step Process
Having purged the deck, begin by sweeping the deck in its entirety with a stiff-bristled broom. Take special care to sweep into corners and along the edges of the pool where leaves and other material will settle. This rids the deck of loose dirt and begins to expose areas that will require cleaning.
Next, rinse the deck thoroughly using a hose or pressure washer. A simple spray will help dislodge finer particles and prep the surface for deeper cleaning. Warm water may be enough for general maintenance. However, if you’re tackling mold, mildew, or stains, you’ll need to apply a cleaning solution.
A good option for all but the most sensitive materials is an oxygen bleach solution—it will be strong enough to get through stubborn residue without etching your pool deck surface. Never, under any circumstances, use chlorine bleach or anything that is labeled as being directly applied into the pool water, as these will ruin the deck finish. For hard spots, i.e., rust or grease, try removing with baking soda paste, diluted vinegar, or commercial degreasers.
Let the solution sit for a few minutes after it is applied. Scrub the deck gently with a soft-bristled brush, especially over areas where build-up is visible. Rinse thoroughly after scrubbing. A second rinse removes all cleaning solution and debris loosened and prevents streaking or discoloration.
Cleaning Techniques for Different Pool Deck Materials
Not all decks are built the same, and neither is their upkeep. Here’s what to keep in mind based on your deck’s material.
Concrete decks are durable but porous, so they tend to hold onto dirt and stains. Use mild soap and water for regular cleanings, and consider a light pressure wash for seasonal refreshes. Just don’t overdo it—high pressure can etch or crack the surface.
Wood decks are warm and stylish but prone to mildew and rot without proper maintenance. Use diluted vinegar or oxygenated bleach not to hurt the wood grain. A clear rinse and gentle scrubbing work well. To seal it long-term, resurface your wood deck each year to seal moisture out and make it last longer.
Paver pool decks are a popular choice for pool decking in Montgomery County, PA, due to their slip resistance and visual appeal. But they do trap grime in the joints. Cleaning with a hose and occasionally scrubbing with a brush keeps them looking fresh. If staining becomes a problem, spot-treat with a mild detergent and rinse thoroughly to maintain their color and finish.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
For the best results, sweep your pool deck during dry, sunny weather. Rain interferes with cleaning solutions and leaves behind slippery conditions. Don’t ever ignore cracks or chipped surfaces—repairing these in a timely fashion prevents further deterioration and costly repairs.
After cleaning, consider sealing your deck surface, especially for concrete and wood. Sealants prevent water absorption, reduce staining, and enhance durability. Yearly resealing offers a degree of protection that will keep your deck looking newer, longer.
One more tip: clean equipment. Dirty mop heads or scrub brushes can only redistribute dirt. If you’ll be cleaning your deck on a regular basis, keep a set of equipment aside just for that.
Regular Maintenance Keeps Your Deck Looking New
A clean pool deck does more than simply look good—safety also improves, particularly where water is concerned. Regular maintenance prevents mold buildup, is good for allergy patients, and is overall better for the upkeep of your outdoor living area. No matter the reason for cleaning—prepping for a future party, desiring your home to continue being inviting with year-round parties or visits—the time spent on pool deck maintenance is always worth it.
As The Deck Expert, we help homeowners create and keep beautiful, functional outdoor living areas. From choosing the right materials to constructing low-maintenance designs, we’re here to enhance your space.
Ready to get your backyard rebuilt? Contact Expert General Contracting today and schedule an appointment to have your backyard oasis specially designed.
