How to Power Wash Decks Properly
Power washing a deck can restore the beauty. Decks tend to get dirty fairly easily just because of the nature of a deck. They are exposed to elements, and often accumulate dirt and pollen. Power washing should be done with care.
Power washing decks is an easy way to keep your deck looking great. However, you have to be careful when you're using a power washer to prevent damage. Using a high pressure washer can erode the wood and create gouging.
What You'll Need:
- Deck broom
- Low pressure power washer
- Garden hose
- Remove any deck furniture and store it for a day. You'll also want to cover any plants around the deck to protect them.
- Sweep the deck to remove any debris that may be lying around. This will also remove a lot of the dirt that is loose on the deck.
- Spray the deck with a simple garden hose. This will help loosen any embedded dirt. You can use a sprayer nozzle on a high setting to help the process.
- Rent a power washing machine that has a low pressure setting. This is important. A high pressure power washer can damage the wood on the deck. It can also loosen the hardware.
- Set the power washer to the lowest setting and start washing the deck. You want to make slow sweeps across the deck. Try to avoid blasting the house or windows.
- Inspect the deck to see if more washing is necessary. Go back over any areas that are still soiled.
- Allow the deck to dry completely before putting the furniture back.