Deck Pressure Washing Kit: A Comprehensive Guide for Effective Deck Cleaning

A Deck Pressure Washing Kit is a comprehensive set of tools and accessories designed for effectively cleaning and maintaining decks, including composite and wood decks. This guide will provide you with detailed technical specifications, recommended pressure settings, and step-by-step instructions for the deck cleaning and sealing process.

Key Components of a Deck Pressure Washing Kit

Pressure Washer Machine

1. General Contractor Pressure Washer Starter Kit:
2. 4 GPM (Gallons Per Minute) @ 4000 PSI (Pounds per Square Inch) machine with a Honda GX390 engine and a direct drive Comet Pump.

3. This powerful gas-powered pressure washer is ideal for tackling large deck areas, delivering exceptional cleaning performance.

4. Electric Pressure Washer:

5. 4000 PSI, 2.8 GPM with a nozzle set, hose reel, and foam cannon included.
6. For smaller decks or areas with limited access to power sources, an electric pressure washer can be a convenient option.

Hoses

1. 100 Foot High Pressure Hose and 50 Foot High Pressure Hose:

2. These long hoses provide extended reach and flexibility, allowing you to cover larger deck areas without constantly moving the pressure washer.

3. 20 FT Hose and 35 FT Power Cord for electric pressure washers:

4. The shorter hose and power cord ensure maneuverability and accessibility for electric pressure washers.

Gun and Lance Assembly

1. 36″ High Pressure Gunjet/Lance Assembly:

2. This long, high-pressure gun and lance combination enables efficient cleaning, reaching even the furthest corners of your deck.

3. Extension Wands and Spray Nozzles:

4. Interchangeable extension wands and a variety of spray nozzles allow you to adjust the cleaning power and coverage for different tasks.

Cleaning Solutions and Accessories

1. Flat Tip Packs (4.0) orifice:

2. These specialized nozzle tips provide a wide, flat spray pattern for effective cleaning of large, flat surfaces like decks.

3. Down Stream Soap Injector:

4. Allows you to apply cleaning agents directly through the pressure washer, ensuring even distribution and thorough cleaning.

5. Surface Cleaner:

6. A specialized attachment designed for cleaning large, flat areas efficiently.

7. Viton O-Rings:

8. Replacement O-rings made of Viton, a durable material that helps maintain the pressure washer’s seals and prevent leaks.

9. Big Green Bruce cleaning solution (5 gallons):

10. A high-quality, biodegradable deck cleaner that effectively removes dirt, mildew, and other contaminants from your deck.

Recommended PSI for Pressure Washing a Composite Deck

When pressure washing a composite deck, it is crucial to use the appropriate pressure setting to avoid damaging the material. The recommended PSI range for composite decks is 1500-2000 PSI. This lower pressure setting ensures that the delicate composite surface is not compromised during the cleaning process.

Deck Cleaner and Sealing Process

Deck Cleaner

1. Use a gentle, pH-balanced deck cleaner specifically formulated for composite or wood decks. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could potentially damage the deck’s surface.
2. Apply the deck cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions, allowing it to sit for the recommended duration.
3. Thoroughly rinse the deck with the pressure washer, ensuring that all cleaning solution residue is removed.

Sealing Process

1. After the deck has completely dried, which typically takes at least 24 hours, apply a high-quality deck sealant or stain.
2. For best results, use a product like Sikkens Proluxe Transparent Stain, which is specifically designed for composite and wood decks.
3. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application, coverage rates, and drying times to ensure a long-lasting, protective finish.

Safety Precautions

When using a pressure washer for deck cleaning, it’s essential to take the following safety precautions:
– Use a wide-angle spray tip to avoid damaging the deck boards.
– Work in sections to maintain even cleaning and avoid streaks.
– Test the pressure washer on a small, inconspicuous area before cleaning the entire deck to ensure the appropriate pressure setting.
– Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses, gloves, and sturdy footwear.

Rental Options

If you don’t own a pressure washer, many home improvement stores like Home Depot offer rental options. The rental cost typically ranges from $80 to $100 per day, providing a cost-effective solution for occasional deck cleaning projects.

Online Resources

For additional information and supplies, consider the following online resources:
– Pressure Tek: Offers a wide range of pressure washing supplies from leading brands.
– Amazon: Provides a variety of electric pressure washers and accessories specifically designed for deck cleaning.

References

• Dirt Killer. (n.d.). General Contractor Pressure Washer Starter Kit With Cold Water 4GPM @ 4000 PSI Machine and accessories. Retrieved from https://www.dirtkiller.com/shop/98generalcontractorkit-general-contractor-pressure-washer-starter-kit-with-cold-water-4gpm-4000-psi-machine-and-accessories-18361
• Reddit. (2023, June 7). Do I need to power wash this deck before I put sealant on it? Retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/HomeMaintenance/comments/143sx5o/do_i_need_to_power_wash_this_deck_before_i_put/
• Concrete Resurrection. (n.d.). Pressure Washing Deck. Retrieved from https://concreteresurrection.com/pressure-washing-deck/
• Amazon. (n.d.). Power Washer Deck. Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com/Power-Washer-Deck/s?k=Power+Washer+Deck
• Pressure Tek. (n.d.). Pressure Washing Supplies. Retrieved from https://pressuretek.com