A deck is a great addition to homes, restaurants, hotels, and other properties in Houston, TX. However, this is only the case when your deck is well-maintained and cared for. Unfortunately, keeping up with your deck’s condition is easier said than done, especially when you are tied up with various day-to-day responsibilities. Eventually, you may step outside only to discover that your deck is smothered with debris and urgently needs to be cleaned. At this point, you’ll need to figure out how to pressure wash a deck—but what exactly does this work entail anyway?
We are Larry’s Pressure Washing, and we are prepared to teach you more about the deck pressure washing process. Of course, if you read through this blog and decide you don’t want to learn how to pressure wash a deck on your own, you are always welcome to schedule an appointment with us!
Why Decks Should Be Pressure Washed
What makes learning how to pressure wash a deck so important? Over time, your deck will accumulate various forms of debris, including dirt, moss, mold, algae, pollen, bird droppings, and more. As these substances form a thick layer on your deck, it will suffocate its brightness and steal away its beauty. Eventually, you’ll be stuck with a visually unappealing deck—and who wants to host a backyard barbecue on a deck that looks like that? Not you, that’s for sure.
Another important reason you should pressure wash your deck is because it protects it from surface damage. Over time, debris can wear down your deck, and if left unchecked, this will lead to the need for expensive repairs. How does this damage happen? Particles of dirt may grind down surfaces, and organic debris, such as moss, can cause moisture damage, too. To prevent this damage, we recommend pressure washing your deck once per year.
What Tools Do I Need For Deck Pressure Washing?
If you have decided you want to learn how to pressure wash a deck, you’ll have to purchase the correct equipment for the work first. So, what exactly will you need? The most important piece of equipment is the pressure washer (which you probably already guessed). This device highly pressurizes water so it can rinse stubborn debris off your exterior surfaces. You’ll also want to invest in some sort of cleaning solution—that way, you have an easier time rinsing away even the toughest grime your deck has to offer.
When handling pressure washing equipment, don’t forget to use safety equipment. Why? Because if you don’t, there’s an increased risk of injuring yourself with pressurized water. This water is powerful enough to bruise or even slice open your skin. So don’t let this happen. Wear goggles, full-length pants, and closed-toe shoes to protect yourself from danger.
How Can I Prepare My Deck For Cleaning?
Aside from acquiring all the right equipment, how else can you prepare for deck pressure washing? You’ll want to make sure the deck itself is ready to be cleaned, too. Moving all belongings off your deck is important for two reasons. One, you won’t be able to pressure wash your deck if your things are in the way. Two, these objects could very easily become damaged if they get hit by pressurized water.
So, please take some time to move any items off the structure. The most common examples include furniture, decorations, and grills. If necessary, reach out to a friend or family member to help you with the heavy lifting. You don’t want to throw your back out!
Pressure Washing the Deck
Let’s take a closer look at how to pressure wash a deck. The first thing you’ll want to do is select an appropriate amount of water pressure. The correct choice depends on the material your deck is made of. We’ve included a bulleted list for your reference below.
- Composite: 500–1000 PSI
- Softwood: 1000–1500 PSI
- Hardwood: 1500–2000 PSI
- Metal: 2000–2500 PSI
Once you’ve selected an appropriate amount of water pressure, add your cleaning solution of choice to your pressure washer’s tank. Then, douse the deck’s surface with a thin layer of this cleaner. After ten to fifteen minutes, you will find all the debris on your deck has been significantly weakened. This is your cue to move into the pressure washing process. Simply spray the deck in a series of rows—that way, you can easily keep track of what you’ve already cleaned and what still needs your attention. Once you’ve completed your work, you can put everything back where it belongs.
Misc. Deck Pressure Washing Tips
Looking for some ways to make your deck cleaning experience easier? We have some general pointers that might help. Read them over and see for yourself.
- Give yourself enough time. Pressure washing your deck isn’t simple, and it’s likely that you’ll need time to figure out what you’re doing if this is your first go at deck cleaning. We recommend you set aside at least three hours for the project.
- Remember that safety comes first. Carelessly spraying pressurized water could lead to you slicing your skin, so practice basic “trigger discipline” during the work. Only aim your hose at surfaces that you intend to clean.
- Don’t forget to be thorough. In addition to your deck, be sure to pressure wash your deck’s railings, stairs, and adjacent walls, too. You’re taking time to clean your property, so why fall short of perfection?
Need Professional Deck Cleaning?
Learning how to pressure wash a deck is tough. Because of this, you might feel intimidated by the process. Plus, if you don’t have time or energy to dedicate to pressure washing, doing your own work might not be the best route. So, what should you do instead? Reach out to Larry’s Pressure Washing, a locally owned and operated business, and we’ll happily do the work for you! Our professionals understand the ins and outs of deck pressure washing, and they will restore your deck for a fair price. Contact us online to get a free estimate and schedule an appointment today.
