Pressure washing your deck is an effective way to remove built-up dirt, grime, and mildew, restoring its original beauty and extending its lifespan. This comprehensive guide provides advanced and critical details on pressure washing tips for decks, houses, and fences, along with technical specifications and DIY guidance to help you achieve professional-level results.
Pressure Washing Tips for Decks
1. Select the Right Power Washer
– Choose a power washer with a pressure range of 1,300 to 2,400 psi for general deck cleaning.
– For soft woods like cedar or pine, use a lower pressure setting of 500 to 600 psi to avoid damage.
– For pressure-treated wood, use a pressure range of 1,200 to 1,500 psi.
2. Pre-treat the Surface
– Apply a mixture of water and mild dish detergent or non-toxic oxygen bleach to the deck using a deck brush before power washing.
– For composite decks, use the lowest pressure setting and keep the nozzle at least 8 inches from the surface to prevent damage.
3. Technique and Safety
– Use a wide-angle nozzle (15 or 18 degrees) and hold it 2 feet from the surface, then lower it to 16 inches for optimal cleaning.
– Sweep the nozzle back-and-forth, working with the grain of the wood, and avoid going against the grain.
– Wear appropriate safety gear, including rubber boots, gloves, and safety goggles, to protect yourself from debris and high-pressure water.
4. Frequency of Pressure Washing
– Pressure wash your deck at least once a year to prevent mold growth and keep the stain looking clean and bright.
Pressure Washing Tips for Houses and Fences
1. Preparing the Area
– Remove any obstacles, cover electrical outlets, and protect plants and siding with water and plastic to prevent damage.
2. Applying Cleaners
– Use a wood cleaner formulated for pressure washers and apply it with a suitable nozzle, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
– Apply the detergent from bottom to top, scrubbing tight corners and between deck balusters with a utility brush.
3. Spraying Off the Cleaner
– Work with the grain of the wood, starting at the top and working downward to prevent streaks.
– Use overlapping passes for more even cleaning.
4. Safety Precautions
– Always follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions for your pressure washer.
– Know how to quickly turn off the pressure washer and release pressure from the system in case of an emergency.
Technical Specifications
Pressure Settings
– 500 to 600 psi for soft woods like cedar or pine
– 1,200 to 1,500 psi for pressure-treated wood
– 1,000 to 1,200 psi for ideal pressure-treated wood
Nozzle Tips
– 15 or 18 degrees for general deck cleaning
– 40 to 60 degrees for maximizing coverage area
Distance from Surface
– Start at 2 feet, then lower to 16 inches
– Maintain at least 8 inches away from the wood surface to avoid damage
DIY Guidance
1. Renting a Pressure Washer
– Rent a pressure washer from a home center or rental center, ensuring it allows for the intake of chemical cleaners.
2. Using Chemical Strippers and Brighteners
– Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing ratios and handling.
– Wear appropriate safety gear and clothes, including eye protection and chemical-resistant gloves.
3. Sanding the Deck
– Use 60-80-grit sandpaper for the deck’s surface and no higher than 100-grit sandpaper on handrails.