New Jersey Home Care: How to Pressure Wash a Deck

Spring is a natural time for us to turn our attention outdoors, when we begin grilling, walking, reading on the porch, and generally enjoying the season. There are many reasons spring is also a natural time to inspect and clean our decks.

–          See what damage the winter has done to the deck surface

–          Verify that the deck is properly sealed to last another season

–          Get the deck looking clean and fresh, now that you are using it again.

If your deck is looking discolored, either black/brown with dirt and pollen or green with mildew, it should definitely be cleaned. Pressure washing your deck is the best way to clean it, but this must be done properly, or you can do lasting damage to the surface.

How to power-wash your deck (without damaging it)

The first thing to do is find an appropriate cleaning solution for your deck. Any home improvement or paint store should be able to recommend a product that works for your type of wood and paint/stain. You can also create your own homemade deck cleaning solution. Use a garden sprayer or a long-handled scrub brush to coat the whole surface of the deck evenly, including rails, spindles, stairs and supports. Then let the solution soak in for a while.

Now you have our permission to get out the power washer! Here are a few tips for obtaining great results without causing damage when you pressure wash your deck:

–          Do not use high pressure. If your pressure is not adjustable, make sure you keep the spray nozzle a good distance from the surface of the deck.

–          When you turn on the spray of water, make sure you are pointing it in a safe direction.

–          Test the pressure washer in an inconspicuous area first. That way you can make sure your pressure is not too high and does not etch the wood.

–          Always keep the nozzle a consistent distance from the surface as you move the spray.

–          Use long strokes, preferably going from one end of a board to the other. Do not use a pattern of many short strokes side-by-side.

–          Be patient and methodical. If you rush, you are sure to miss spots or damage the wood.

If you are interested in professional deck cleaning services, Brennan’s Custom Painting is the company to call in New Jersey, Delaware and Philadelphia. Our experts will treat your deck with excellent care, ensuring you are delighted with the results.

After you are finished power washing the deck, it is important to make sure it is properly sealed against moisture.  Be sure to check out our related post, “Should I Use Stain or Sealer on my Deck?”

Brennan’s Custom Painting offers pressure washing, painting and carpentry services in Pitman, Gloucester, Cherry Hill, Egg Harbour City, Camden, Wilmington and the surrounding townships. Call us for a free estimate on any of our services!