Pressure washing a wood deck can sometimes cause it to appear fuzzy. This phenomenon, known as “wood fuzzies” or “wood furring,” occurs when the pressure washer tears the wood fibers, creating a fuzzy appearance. This is a normal and cosmetic issue that does not indicate damage to the wood itself.
Understanding the Causes of Wood Fuzziness After Pressure Washing
The primary reason for the fuzzy appearance on a wood deck after pressure washing is the high-pressure water stream. When the pressure washer is used at an inappropriate setting or too close to the wood surface, it can tear and lift the wood fibers, resulting in a fuzzy texture.
The degree of fuzziness can vary depending on several factors:
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Wood Type: Softer wood species, such as pine, cedar, and redwood, are more susceptible to developing a fuzzy appearance after pressure washing. Harder wood species, like ipe and mahogany, are less prone to this issue.
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Pressure Washer Settings: Using a pressure washer with a setting that is too high (above 3,000 PSI) or holding the wand too close to the wood surface can exacerbate the problem. Softer wood species may require lower pressure settings, typically between 300 and 1,500 PSI.
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Cleaning Technique: Improper cleaning techniques, such as using a narrow-angled nozzle or holding the wand in one spot for too long, can also contribute to the formation of wood fuzzies.
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Wood Condition: Older, weathered, or previously stained/sealed wood is more likely to develop a fuzzy appearance after pressure washing, as the fibers may be more fragile.
Removing the Fuzzy Appearance from Your Deck
To remove the fuzzy appearance from your deck, you can follow these steps:
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Ensure the Wood is Completely Dry: Before attempting any further treatment, make sure the wood is completely dry. Moisture can make the wood fibers more difficult to remove.
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Lightly Sand the Deck: Use an orbital sander with 80-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the affected areas. This will help remove the fuzzy wood fibers without damaging the underlying wood. Be sure to sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid creating an uneven surface.
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Sanding Time: Typically, it takes less than 30 minutes to sand a standard-sized deck and remove the fuzzy appearance.
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Sanding Depth: Aim to remove only the top layer of fuzzy fibers, without sanding too deeply into the wood.
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Clean the Deck: After sanding, thoroughly clean the deck to remove any dust or debris. You can use a broom, leaf blower, or a damp mop to ensure the surface is clean.
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Apply a Deck Sealer or Stain: Once the deck is clean and dry, you can apply a high-quality deck sealer or stain to protect the wood and prevent future fuzziness. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application.
Preventing Fuzzy Appearance on Your Deck
To avoid the fuzzy appearance on your deck in the future, consider the following maintenance tips:
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Adjust Pressure Washer Settings: Use a pressure washer with a setting between 300 and 3,000 PSI, depending on the wood type and condition. Start with a lower pressure and gradually increase it as needed.
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Maintain Proper Cleaning Technique: Hold the pressure washer wand at a 45-degree angle to the wood surface and keep it moving to avoid damaging the fibers.
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Regular Cleaning and Sealing: Clean and seal your deck every two to three years to maintain its appearance and protect the wood from weathering and damage.
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Consider Alternative Cleaning Methods: For softer wood species, you may want to explore gentler cleaning methods, such as using a deck brush and a mild detergent solution, instead of pressure washing.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively remove the fuzzy appearance from your wood deck and maintain its beautiful, natural look for years to come.
References
- Window Genie Blog. (2015, June 25). Common Questions about Deck Cleaning. Retrieved from https://www.windowgenie.com/blog/common-questions-about-deck-cleaning/
- Reddit. (2023, August 29). Lots of furring after pressure washing. Retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/Decks/comments/164ytpu/lots_of_furring_after_pressure_washing/
- Pristine Clean VA. (2020, March 14). My deck and fence look fuzzy after cleaning, is this normal? Retrieved from https://www.pristinecleanva.com/blog/why-does-my-deck-look-fuzzy
- Bailey Line Road. (2021, August 12). Q&A OF THE WEEK: “How Can I Fix the Fuzzy Wood on My Deck?” Retrieved from https://baileylineroad.com/qa-fuzzy-deck-fix/
- Deck Restoration Co. (2023, April 25). Is your Deck fuzzy after power washing? Here’s how you fix it… Retrieved from https://deckrestorationco.com.au/deck-fuzzy-after-power-washing/