How to remove green algae spots on foredeck?

[Bunbury]

It's annual boat-cleaning time.

This time small green algae spots on the stippled parts of the foredeck are proving rather pesky. I've tried the deck scrubber with boat 'shampoo' and oxalic acid to no effect.

The only thing making any impact is a green kitchen scourer, but there are too many to do that lot that way.

Any suggestions?

 

[Mr Googler]

Any mould remover should do it. H and G from B&Q works well. Just wear gloves!!

 

[petem]

Patio Magic?

 

[ashtead]

Plus1 to patio magic but it might be cheaper to use hold bleach or Milton initially

 

[Bunbury]

Bleach sounds like a good option cost-wise - I've already got some on the boat. I didn't expect it to succeed where oxalic acid had failed, but I'll give it a go.

 

[JerryC]

Use watered down bleach in a spray aka bathroom cleaner to treat mould. Strong bleach is instantly corrosive on nearly all metals, so use the watered down stuff and keep it away from your stanchions etc. Never use anywhere near fabrics!

 

[longjohnsilver]

Bleach sounds like a good option cost-wise - I've already got some on the boat. I didn't expect it to succeed where oxalic acid had failed, but I'll give it a go.

As you've found, oxalic acid does not work on green mould or algae. But it's great for rust stains and cleaning teak decks.

 

[Momac]

I am surprised scrubbing has not removed the algae. Sure that's what it is ?
On the other hand cleaning the boat more frequently than annually might require less overall effort.
The patio magic (or other similar ) treatment is probably right for you. Spray it on and ...... do nothing more.

 

[markc]

This stuff is really good - have used it a lot over the years. It does not instantly go, but will after a few days. I just apply it with a small pump pressurised garden sprayer and leave it -
no scrubbing http://algonorganics.co.uk/

 

[rafiki_]

I use my Karcher on the non-slip on the foredeck.

 

[Piers]

Point 1 is that you don't want to damage the decks, so I'd be cautious about using bleach. Point 2, Borocol is excellent for removing 'green spots'. Since it soaks into the wood it will reach the roots. I use Borocal on Play d'eau's decks twice a year and they are superb. If the problems are extensive, Wessex two part treatment is the answer.

 

[ashtead]

Point 1 is that you don't want to damage the decks, so I'd be cautious about using bleach. Point 2, Borocol is excellent for removing 'green spots'. Since it soaks into the wood it will reach the roots. I use Borocal on Play d'eau's decks twice a year and they are superb. If the problems are extensive, Wessex two part treatment is the answer.

The OP might not have teak decks of course ? but I suspect dilute bleach or Milton is going to do less harm if any than a Karcher I suspect unless it's fitted with a brush attachment.