A wooden terrace or one of slabs and stone
This is the first question, because the two types are cared for differently. They share the principle of order, that is first thorough cleaning, then protection, but the products and the way of working differ.
- A wooden terrace needs a wood wash, sanding if needed, and then an impregnation for exterior wood.
- A terrace of concrete slabs, porcelain stoneware or pavers you clean with a product for the given surface and then protect with an impregnation or coating.
Tip
If you have a wooden terrace, see also the guide on impregnating wood, and for a terrace of stone or slabs the guide on sealing pavers. There you will find the full procedure for the specific surface.
The most common problems on a terrace
- Green deposits and algae in shaded, damp spots.
- Greying of the wood under sun and moisture.
- Streaks and stains from leaves, pots and food.
- A slippery surface after rain, especially where deposits have formed.
Cleaning a terrace step by step
- 1Clear the terrace. Take away furniture and pots, sweep leaves and loose dirt. This gets you to the whole surface.
- 2Choose the product for the surface. On wood use a wood cleaner, on slabs, porcelain stoneware and pavers a product for the given surface.
- 3Apply the product and let it dwell. Spread the product evenly and wait the time stated on the label. Brush over harder spots.
- 4Rinse and let it dry. Rinse the surface thoroughly and let it dry. This is the condition for effective protection in the next step.
Note
On wood and thin slabs stay moderate with the pressure washer. Too strong a jet raises the wood fibres and can damage the surface of the slabs and the joints.
Protecting the terrace after cleaning
A clean and dry terrace is the best moment for protection. Wood you protect with an impregnation for exterior wood, which limits water absorption and slows greying. A terrace of slabs, porcelain stoneware or pavers you protect with a product for the given surface, an impregnation or coating, depending on the effect you want.
As always, before working on the whole surface do a test in an inconspicuous spot to judge the effect and absorbency.
The most common mistakes in terrace care
- Protecting a dirty or damp surface, which seals the problem in.
- Too high pressure from the washer, which damages wood or slabs.
- Skipping the test and being surprised by the look after application.
- Working just before rain or in full heat.
- Postponing care, so the wood greys and the deposit grows in more strongly.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I care for the terrace?
Clean the terrace as needed and thoroughly once a deposit forms or the wood starts to grey. Refresh the protection when water no longer beads on the surface. The exact durability of the product is on its data sheet.
Does a wooden terrace need sanding?
New and well kept wood usually not. An old, grey or rough terrace often does, because sanding exposes healthy fibre and improves penetration of the impregnation.
What do I protect a concrete slab terrace with?
With a product for the given surface, a penetrating impregnation for a natural look or a coating if you want to emphasise the colour. The choice depends on the effect you want, which you will find in the product description.
Will a protected terrace be slippery?
Penetrating impregnations do not visibly change grip. With coatings, especially on wood and in spots exposed to moisture, watch the slip resistance and follow the information on the product data sheet.
