Q: I have a question about restoring my deck: I moved into this house three years ago. The deck had been finished with a redwood latex product. I recently replaced the railing and steps with pressure-treated wood. So now I have a two-tone deck that I would like to finish with a color as close to natural wood as possible. Can you recommend what to use to make the deck look one color again?

A: Based on my experience redoing a front porch in the spring, I would highly recommend a solid stain that will blend the look of the different parts of the deck. Home centers have a large selection, and I’m sure you’ll find something that meets your needs. But be sure to find out beforehand whether the pressure-treated wood will take the stain differently than the other wood.

Q: I have a composite deck, light gray in color, and, even though I clean it two times a year with a power washer, there still is this light green mold that appears under the railing and on the steps. Do you have any suggestions for cleaning, and what type of cleaner/detergent do you suggest?

A: As you surmise, mildew forms where the sun don’t shine, even on “maintenance-free” composite decking.

Just to clarify: No manufacturer ever claims its products are maintenance-free. That’s just wishful thinking on the part of those who sell the products and the fed-up-with-deck-cleaning homeowners they sell to.

CertainTeed, which manufactures Boardwalk composite decking, states the reality very clearly: “All exterior building materials require some degree of maintenance and cleaning.” (Just because you don’t have to repaint vinyl siding doesn’t mean that the green coating on the shady side of the house shouldn’t be hit with a power washer regularly.)

You didn’t mention the brand of composite decking you have, so I hope CertainTeed’s recommendations for mold and mildew apply to most products. Check manufacturer and warranty information first before you do anything. These general cleaners are recommended for removing mold and mildew: Olympic Deck Wash, Thompson’s Water Seal Deck Wash and Pittsburgh Paints Ultra Deck Cleaner.

First, sweep the deck thoroughly, cleaning out any clogged gaps between planks. Be sure to follow all instructions regarding safe cleaner use and disposal. Use of household plastic or rubber gloves is recommended. Be sure to take precautions to protect plants, surroundings, clothing and exposed skin.

For best results, apply the cleaner to a dry deck with a broom. Wait 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse with a garden hose or power washer set to low pressure. Should additional cleaning be necessary, let the deck dry completely and repeat these steps.

To keep the problem from recurring, sweep the deck regularly to keep gaps between the planks free from debris. Keep your gutters clean, too. Overflow from a leaf-clogged gutter above a deck is a potential source of food for mold and mildew. Keep the underdeck area well-ventilated and free of materials that retain moisture.

Q: I want to change the shower area in my bathroom; it is some kind of plastic pan. I want a tile floor and intend to redo the tile walls, as well. I assumed that meant a wet bed for the shower floor but heard that there is a preformed material being used now instead of a wet bed for tile floors in showers.

A: The material you’re referring to is formulated from a composite of polyester-acrylic resins and natural minerals. It’s engineered to resist stains and scratches, is nonporous, and does not support the growth of mold, mildew or bacteria. It typically comes with a factory warranty.