Do you need to learn how to power wash a deck? If so, you’re in the right place. At Elite Pressure Washing, we understand how important it is to keep your deck clean and visually appealing. We take on deck cleaning projects each and every week, and we know the best practices for the process. Discover the optimal deck cleaning procedure below, and then, decide whether you’d rather do this work on your own or reach out to a professional pressure washing business for an appointment.
Why Decks Need Power Washing
Is it really necessary to power wash your deck? The answer is yes. If you don’t power wash your deck, there are a number of negative consequences that you’ll deal with. Over time, debris will accumulate on the deck’s surface. (This includes substances such as dirt, moss, mold, algae, pollen, dead insects, and bird droppings.)
Can’t you just rely on the rain to keep your deck clean? Unfortunately, this isn’t enough to remove stubborn grime. Because of this, more powerful cleaning techniques are necessary. We highly recommend power washing for this very reason.
Benefits of Deck Power Washing
Learning how to power wash a deck will provide you with a number of benefits. You won’t want to miss out on these perks, so don’t neglect deck cleaning—it’s an investment that pays off in dividends. The benefits include:
- Improved deck appearance. By power washing your deck, you’ll improve its overall appearance, helping your property as a whole look better.
- Increased surface lifespans. By rinsing away surface debris, you’ll prevent it from damaging your deck, helping you save money on costly repairs.
- Eliminate moss, mold, and algae. Deck power washing is the key to getting rid of moss, mold, and algae, stopping their continued spread.
We highly recommend having your deck cleaned once per year. Has it already been more than a year since your deck was power washed? If so, plan to change that!
What You’ll Need For Deck Cleaning
If you want to learn how to power wash a deck, you’ll need to get the necessary equipment first. Otherwise, you won’t have what you need to complete the work. The most important piece of equipment you’ll need is a pressure washer. A pressure washer is a special machine that connects to a water source and pressurizes the water. This transforms it into a highly effective surface cleaning force.
In addition to a pressure washer, you’ll also need the following items:
- Connecting hose and nozzle
- Basic pressure washing detergent
- Sodium hypochlorite (for stubborn debris)
- Protective gear (gloves, goggles, closed-toe shoes)
Preparing Your Deck For Cleaning
Once you have all the necessary equipment, you’re still not ready to learn how to power wash a deck. That’s because you have to prepare the deck before you can clean it. First, make sure any furniture, decorations, and other items have been removed from its surface. That way, they don’t get in the way of your work. Plus, you won’t have to worry about accidentally damaging them if you have relocated them.
You’ll also want to sweep your deck before pressure washing it. By doing so, you’ll remove any large particles of debris, such as pebbles, from the area. Getting rid of these ahead of time prevents them from being launched by pressurized water. This could save you from accidentally cracking a nearby window.
Choosing How Much Water Pressure to Use
Next, you’ll need to select an appropriate amount of water pressure for your deck cleaning project. The correct setting depends on the material your deck is made of. We’ve included a simple guide for your reference below.
- Composite: 500–1000 PSI
- Softwood: 1000–1500 PSI
- Hardwood: 1500–2000 PSI
- Metal: 2000–2500 PSI
While setting up your pressure washer, don’t forget to also add a simple detergent to the soap tank. This detergent goes a long way when it comes to removing debris from surfaces. Help yourself secure high-quality results!
Power Washing Your Deck
With all preparations out of the way, it’s time to give your deck a visual transformation. While power washing your deck, be sure to maintain a distance of two feet during your work. Keep a steady hold on your hose, and clean the deck in a simple, row-by-row pattern. By sticking to this pattern and overlapping each pass, you’ll be able to restore the entire structure in a timely manner.
If you come across any debris that you can’t remove with power washing, what should you do? In this situation, use sodium hypochlorite to weaken tough grime. Simply apply a thin layer of this substance to the area and wait fifteen minutes. After this time has passed, power wash the area, rinsing away debris once and for all.
Consider Professional Deck Cleaning
Learning how to power wash a deck is certainly possible. However, it isn’t for everybody. For example, if you have a busy schedule, you may struggle to find a time and date for your project. Additionally, you might not be prepared for the physical labor involved with DIY deck cleaning.
For a simple alternative to the DIY deck cleaning process, reach out to Elite Pressure Washing. We are a locally owned and operated business, and it’s always our pleasure to serve the Tampa, FL community. By scheduling an appointment with us, you won’t even have to lift a finger to revitalize your deck. We will happily restore its appearance while you take time to relax and enjoy yourself.
Cost of Professional Deck Power Washing
How much should you expect to pay if you schedule our deck power washing services? The cost of your appointment ultimately depends on the size of your deck. Larger structures result in higher end-of-appointment prices. There are never hidden fees or surcharges.
Need a free cost estimate? We would be happy to help you out. Contact us online, let us know how we can help, and get a quote today! Then, you can choose a time and date for your appointment. We look forward to meeting you and power washing your deck in the near future.
