How to Safely Power Wash Your Deck: Tips and Tricks for a Like-New Finish

A well-maintained deck not only enhances your home’s curb appeal but also serves as a comfortable outdoor living space for relaxation and entertainment. Power washing is an essential aspect of deck maintenance that can significantly rejuvenate its appearance and extend its lifespan. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of safely and effectively power washing your deck, sharing expert tips, recommended cleaning solutions, and common pitfalls to avoid, ensuring a stunning like-new finish for your outdoor haven.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Safely and Effectively Power Washing Your Deck

Power washing your deck is a crucial aspect of home maintenance, contributing significantly to its longevity and visual appeal. Master the art of safely and effectively power washing your deck with our step-by-step guide, which covers proper techniques, recommended cleaning solutions, and common mistakes to avoid, ensuring a beautifully restored deck for your enjoyment.

1. Prepare Your Deck: Before you begin power washing, it’s crucial to prepare your deck. Remove all furniture, plants, and decorative items, and sweep away any loose debris like leaves, dirt, or small branches. This will make the cleaning process more efficient and prevent any potential damage to your belongings.
2. Choose the Right Equipment and Cleaning Solution: Choose a pressure washer with a PSI (pounds per square inch) rating suitable for your deck material. Generally, a PSI of 1200-1500 is ideal for wood decks, while composite decks can handle up to 2000 PSI. To avoid damaging your deck’s surface, use a wide-angle nozzle (25-40 degrees) and hold the wand at least 8 inches away from the surface. Opt for a biodegradable, environmentally friendly cleaning solution specifically designed for deck cleaning.
3. Apply the Cleaning Solution: Using the low-pressure setting on your pressure washer, apply the cleaning solution evenly to the entire deck surface. Let the solution sit for 10-15 minutes, allowing it to penetrate and break down the dirt, mold, and mildew. Avoid letting the solution dry on the deck, as this can lead to staining or damage.
4. Power Wash Your Deck: Starting at one end of the deck, power wash the surface using slow, even strokes. Maintain a consistent distance between the nozzle and the deck to avoid uneven cleaning. Be cautious when working around seams, joints, and fasteners, as these areas can be more susceptible to damage. Always spray in the direction of the wood grain to avoid splintering.
5. Rinse and Inspect: After power washing the entire deck, rinse it thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining cleaning solution and debris. Inspect your deck for any missed spots or areas that may require additional cleaning. If necessary, repeat the power washing process on these areas.
6. Allow Your Deck to Dry: Allow your deck to dry completely before applying any sealant or stain, usually 24-48 hours depending on the weather conditions. Properly sealing your deck after power washing will protect it from the elements and prolong its lifespan.

What’s Next?

A deck wash is a great way to keep your property looking fresh, but why stop there? Dirty siding, clogged gutters and algae covered patios are all areas of your property that can use some power washing love too!

 

The Bottom Line

At Blustream Power Wash, we use the safest and most effective soft wash treatments for your residential or commercial property. Our trained washing professionals know how to safely remove mold, algae, and other organic growths from buildings, walkways, and more. For information on our power washing services, read here or call us at 219.370.6827 to speak to one of our professionals and schedule your service to get your property freshened up!