Clean Outdoor Wooden Surfaces

What happens in this clip

Begin by thoroughly cleaning any outdoor wooden surfaces, such as steps, decks, or walkways. Use a specialized deck cleaner or deck brightener to remove dirt, grime, and algae that can accumulate over time and make surfaces slick. Cleaning also helps to open up the pores of the wood, which naturally increases its traction. Ensure the cleaning product is suitable for the type of wood and always follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and rinsing. Allow the wood to dry completely before proceeding with any further treatments.

Goal: Prepare the surface for safety treatments

What's used

Tools

• Brush
• Deck brush
• Eye Protection
• Power Washer
• Safety Gloves

Materials

• Deck Cleaner or Brightener
• Sodium percarbonate cleaner
• grime
• and mildew from outdoor wood surfaces.
• Water

About the full video

This project outlines several methods to enhance the safety of outdoor wooden steps, decks, or walkways by making them less slippery. It covers cleaning the wood, applying peel-and-stick abrasive strips, and using a clear, spray-on anti-slip coating to prevent slips and falls.

Step 2 of 5: Clean Stair Surfaces

Clean the entire surface of your outdoor stairs meticulously. This involves sweeping away loose debris such as leaves, dirt, and sand. For more stubborn grime or algae, use a stiff-bristled brush and a suitable cleaning solution (like a mild detergent or a deck cleaner). Rinse thoroughly with water and allow the stairs to dry completely before proceeding to the next steps. If there are old paint or sealant layers that are peeling or worn, they may need to be scraped or sanded off.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Keep Outdoor Stairs Safe in Ice and Snow

1. Step 1: Inspect Existing Stairs

   • 0:00–0:15 Observe Existing Outdoor Stairs
   • 0:15–0:26 Evaluate Stair Safety
   • 0:00–0:17 Initial Visual Assessment of Step Construction

2. Step 2: Clean Stair Surfaces

   • 0:19–0:32 Clean Outdoor Wooden Surfaces (this video)
   • 1:12–1:14 Clean and Dry Steps
   • 1:13–1:37 Prepare the Surface

3. Step 3: Apply Anti-Slip Treads

   • 0:02–0:06 Apply Anti-Slip Strip
   • 0:51–4:06 Apply Adhesive-Backed Anti-Slip Products
   • 0:09–0:15 Understand Anti-Slip Product Options

4. Step 4: Install or Reinforce Railings

   • 0:24–0:42 Check Railing Height
   • 2:39–3:22 Check Railing Stability
   • 4:56–5:38 Attach Handrail

5. Step 5: Implement Snow and Ice Melting Solutions

   • 0:03–0:07 Apply De-Icing Salt to Surfaces
   • 0:07–0:20 Prepare Ice Melt and Traction Materials
   • 0:35–1:06 Ensure Snow and Ice Removal Readiness