Deck Washing: Tips & Techniques for Effective Power Washing

A well-maintained deck can be an attractive and comfortable area for outdoor entertaining, relaxing and taking in nature’s beauty. However, over time, exposure, foot traffic and other factors such as the weather can cause dirt to accumulate, mildew to grow, mold to form and stains on your deck. The pressure washing Douglasville GA is a great way to quickly and efficiently restore the lustre of your deck. In this guide, you’ll learn the basics of deck cleaning. You’ll also get tips on pressure washing and how to achieve great results.

Preparation

Preparing the area is essential before pressure washing your deck. Make sure you also have the proper equipment. Remove all obstacles, including furniture and plants, from the deck’s surface. This allows for easy cleaning. Trim any foliage or overhanging branches that might interfere with the process of pressure washing Fayetteville GA.

Scrub the deck surface well to remove leaves, debris and dirt. Take special care to clean corners, seams, or crevices that tend to collect dirt. Consider using mildew removers or deck cleaner solutions before you pressure wash your deck to loosen any visible mold growth.

Equipment and Safety

A high-quality, powerful pressure washer will provide the best results for cleaning your deck. Make sure to choose one with the correct PSI (pounds/square in) and GPM (gallons/minute) ratings. Pressure washers with PSI between 1,500 and 2,500 and GPMs of 1.5 – 2.5 are adequate for most residential deck cleaning. Also, select a spray nozzle with a wide angle to provide uniform coverage. This will minimize the risk of damage.

Wear safety goggles when operating a pressure washing machine. You should also wear gloves and closed-toed shoes. Do not aim the spray at anyone or anything nearby. The high-pressure water stream may cause injury. As you increase pressure, start at a low setting.

Techniques for Effective Cleaning

To begin, apply a deck cleanser or detergent solution on the deck surface. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding dilution. Allow the cleaner, which is diluted with water, to penetrate and loosen dirt. To remove stubborn stains or heavily soiled spots, use a scrub brush or stiff bristle mop to agitate before pressure washing.

The deck should be thoroughly rinsed with clean water once the cleaner and detergent have had a chance to work. Sweeping the deck will remove any residue. Work from one end to the opposite. Each pass should be slightly overlapped for complete coverage. You should not stay in one spot too long. This could cause wood damage or streaks.

After rinsing your deck, allow it to dry fully before applying any sealants. Depending on the weather and the type of wood, this may take a few hours or overnight. Once the deck is completely dry, check it for any lingering spots or missed spots. Use spot cleaning or another pressure washing to touch up any stains.

Post Cleaning Care

Once your deck has dried and been cleaned, you can apply a protective sealant. This will preserve the appearance of your deck as well as prolong its lifespan. Please select a product made specifically for decks and use it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help to protect the deck against moisture, ultraviolet damage, and environmental factors.