Wood Deck Cleaning - Pressure Washing Decks the Right Way

Perhaps the most dramatic effect of cleaning a deck with a power washer, is on a wood deck. Whether you want to remove dirt or other debris, or prepare the deck for a new finish, a pressure washer is the perfect tool for the job.

First, remove all your furniture so you can clean the entire area. For this job, attach the 25 degree nozzle to your pressure washer and go ahead and spray away any loose leaves or dirt.

Next up, we recommend applying a detergent for the best and quickest cleaning results.

Note: First test the detergent on an inconspicuous area of your deck.

To apply the detergent to the deck, attach the black detergent nozzle to the pressure washer, and fill the detergent tank with an environmentally friendly detergent liquid. Then apply the detergent to the deck surface and allow it to soak for 3-5 minutes.

The detergent will break down any oil or surface film for more effective cleaning.

One thing to keep in mind, don't allow the detergent to dry. If you're working in the sun, keep wetting the surface until the detergent has had time to work it's magic.

Once that's done, reattached the 25 degree nozzle. Continue cleaning in a side to side sweeping motion. Keep the nozzle moving constantly and at a consistent distance from the deck to get an even clean and so that you do not scratch your deck surface.

Once you've completed cleaning the deck, go ahead and give it one more spray to rid of loose detergent or dirt. With the hard work done, you can sit and relax and let the deck dry for 24 hrs before staining or sealing.

Injury Notice: Pressure washing a deck often forces the user to maintain an awkward back angle. Make sure to wear a brace or take breaks often to avoid a strained back. This will only make cleaning your deck an bad experience.

There are professional deck pressure washing services or deck restoration services at reasonable rates. in your area. If you're brand new to this, the time it takes you may be worth hiring someone else.

Another option still is to never have to pressure wash again. With the new deck materials that are out there, new decks come with lifetime warranties against any scratches, fading, or stains. They range from Trex Decks, TimberTech Decks, Gossen Decking, Fiberon Decking, and a whole host of others.

Consult with your local deck builder for more help and advice.

Lenny Scarola is the owner of PowerHouse Remodeling of Northern Virginia and Maryland.
PowerHouse inc is a contractor for decks, patios, porch enclosures, gazebos, and garages.
For more information on these services or for a free price quote and design, go to http://www.powerhousedecks.com.

Northern Virginia Deck Builder by PowerHouse Remodeling

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.