How to Clean a Pergola (Step-By-Step Guide)

27 May 2024

Maintaining a pergola not only enhances your outdoor space but also extends its lifespan, ensuring it remains a centrepiece of your garden for years to come. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps and best practices for cleaning your pergola, covering everything from the basic tools required to advanced tips for tackling stubborn stains. 

Whether you have a sleek vinyl structure, cedar or a classic wood construction, you’ll find practical advice tailored to keep your pergola looking its best. Get ready to restore the beauty of your pergola with Johnson & Couzins’ expert maintenance tips!

Tools and Materials Needed for Cleaning

To get started, you'll need a couple of essential tools: 

• A soft-bristle brush
• A bucket
• A garden hose with a spray attachment 
• Mild detergent. 
• (Optional) Pressure washer

Specific Material Cleaning Considerations

Vinyl Pergolas:

• Avoid Abrasives: Use only soft cloths and brushes to avoid scratching the vinyl.
• Regular Cleaning: Frequent light cleanings can prevent the need for harsh chemicals or excessive scrubbing later on.

Cedar Pergolas:

• Mildew Attention: Cedar is prone to mildew, so use a solution of mild detergent and water to prevent damage.
• Oil Treatment: After cleaning and drying, consider applying a light oil or stain to enhance the cedar’s natural resistance to weather.

Wood Pergolas:

• Check for Rot: While cleaning, inspect for any signs of wood rot or damage and address them promptly.
• Sealant Application: After cleaning, applying a water-repellent sealant can help protect the wood from moisture and prolong its life.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process for a Pergola

Step 1: Clear and Prepare the Area

• Remove any furnishings, plants, and decorative items from under and around the pergola to ensure easy access to all parts.

Step 2: Wet the Structure

• Using a garden hose with a spray attachment, thoroughly wet the pergola to loosen surface dirt and debris.

Step 3: Apply Cleaning Solution

• Mix a mild detergent with warm water in a bucket. If you're using a pressure washer, ensure it's set to a gentle spray and filled with an appropriate cleaning solution.
• Apply the cleaning solution using a sponge or soft cloth, starting from the top of the pergola and working your way down.

Step 4: Scrub

• Scrub the structure gently with a soft-bristle brush. Focus on areas with noticeable dirt buildup, using circular motions to lift the dirt effectively.

Step 5: Rinse

• Rinse the pergola with the garden hose, starting from the top to ensure all soap and loosened dirt wash away completely.

Step 6: Dry

• Allow the pergola to air dry completely. If possible, choose a sunny day for cleaning to speed up the drying process.

Step 7: Inspect and Touch Up

• After drying, inspect the pergola for any missed spots or persistent stains.
• Apply spot treatments as needed and rinse again if necessary.

Summing it up

Maintaining your pergola through regular cleaning not only preserves its appearance but also extends its lifespan, ensuring it continues to enhance your outdoor living space year after year.

Whether your pergola is made of vinyl, cedar, or another type of wood, following the steps outlined above will help you keep it in pristine condition. 

At Johnson & Couzins, we understand the importance of taking care of your investment, and we are committed to helping you enjoy your pergola for as long as possible. 

Remember, a little care goes a long way towards protecting and enhancing the beauty of your pergola. 

If you have any further questions or need assistance with your pergola maintenance, feel free to reach out to our team. We're here to help you make the most of your outdoor spaces.

FAQ

Can you pressure wash a pergola?

Yes, you can pressure wash a pergola, but it's essential to do so cautiously to avoid damaging the structure. 

Use a moderate pressure setting and a wide fan nozzle to distribute the water evenly. Always test the washer on a small area first, protect surrounding plants and surfaces, and apply a gentle cleaning solution if dealing with stubborn dirt or mildew. 

Start from the top and work your way down, keeping the nozzle at least 30-45 cm (12-18 inches) away from the pergola surfaces, and ensure thorough rinsing and drying afterward. Adjust your technique based on the material of your pergola—be particularly gentle with wood to avoid damaging the surface.

How do you clean the top of a pergola?

To clean the top of a pergola, first ensure safety by using a sturdy ladder to reach the top comfortably. Clear any loose debris with a broom or leaf blower. 

For washing, apply a mild detergent solution using a long-handled brush or sponge to scrub the top gently, then rinse thoroughly with a garden hose. 

If available, using a pressure washer set to a gentle spray can make the process quicker and more effective, but always maintain a safe distance to protect the material of the pergola.