Pressure washing your deck is one of the best ways to keep it looking fresh and clean.
Not only does it make your deck look great, but it also helps protect it from the elements.
But how do you pressure wash a deck? In this article, we’ll cover the benefits of pressure washing a deck, the steps to take to prepare your deck for pressure washing, how to make a pressure washing solution, and how to use a pressure washer to get the best results.
With these steps, you’ll have your deck looking like new in no time!
Table of Contents
Short Answer
To pressure wash a deck, start by setting up the pressure washer and mixing the appropriate cleaning solution with water in the pressure washer tank.
Then, start at one corner of the deck, holding the pressure washer nozzle about 6 inches away from the surface.
Move the nozzle in a sweeping motion, keeping a steady pressure.
Rinse the area with clear water after washing and move on to the next section.
Finally, allow the deck to air dry before applying a sealant or stain.
The Benefits of Pressure Washing a Deck
Pressure washing a deck is an effective way to make it look like new.
Pressure washing removes dirt, grime, and mildew from the surface of the deck, as well as the cracks and crevices between boards.
This allows you to get a much deeper clean than traditional scrubbing and hosing.
Pressure washing is also a great way to prepare your deck for staining, painting, or sealing, as it removes any loose or flaky material that could interfere with the new finish.
In addition, it can help to remove any old sealant or paint that may have become cracked or faded.
With a pressure washer, you can easily clean your deck without harsh chemicals or a lot of manual labor, saving you time and energy.
Preparing the Deck for Pressure Washing
Pressure washing a deck is an effective way to make it look like new and is a relatively straightforward process.
Before beginning, however, it is important to properly prepare the deck.
The first step is to remove any debris such as leaves, dirt, or twigs.
This will help to ensure the pressure washer can do its job properly.
After that, it is a good idea to hose the deck down.
This will help to prevent any dust or dirt from clogging up the pressure washer and will also soften the dirt and debris, making it easier to be removed with the pressure washer.
Once the deck is clear, it is time to mix a pressure washing solution in a bucket.
This solution will help to remove any stubborn dirt and grime and can be made with a combination of water and detergent.
Once the solution is mixed, it is time to use a brush to scrub the deck.
This will help to break up any caked-on dirt and debris and will help to ensure the pressure washer can do its job effectively.
Making a Pressure Washing Solution
Pressure washing a deck is an effective way to make it look like new, but there are a few steps to take before you start.
Before you begin, its important to make sure the deck is free of debris and hosing it down.
Once the deck is prepped, you can make a pressure washing solution to help you get the job done.
Mixing a pressure washing solution is easy and can be done with a few simple ingredients.
Start by filling a bucket with warm water and adding a detergent or cleaning solution of your choice.
The type of detergent you use will depend on the surface youre cleaning, so make sure you get the right one for your deck.
Once your solution is ready, you can use a brush to scrub the deck before pressure washing.
If youre using a normal garden hose, you can simply pour the solution onto the deck and scrub it with a brush.
If youre using a pressure washer, youll need to fill the pressure washers soap tank with the solution.
Make sure to set the pressure washer to a low pressure setting and move the wand in a back-and-forth motion while keeping a steady distance from the deck.
This will ensure that the pressure washing solution is applied evenly.
Once youve pressure washed the deck, you can rinse it off with clear water and let it dry for at least 24 hours before walking on it or adding sealant.
Pressure washing a deck is an effective way to make it look like new, and making a pressure washing solution is an important part of the process.
With the right cleaning solution and the right technique, you can make sure your deck is looking its best.
Scrubbing the Deck with a Brush
Once the debris has been cleared away and the deck has been hosed down, it’s time to start scrubbing the deck with a brush.
This is an important step in the pressure washing process, as it helps loosen any dirt and grime that may be lodged in the fibers of the wood.
To do this, start by filling a bucket with a pressure washing solution.
This can be a store-bought cleaner specifically made for pressure washing, or a mixture of water and vinegar.
Once the solution has been mixed, dip a scrub brush into the bucket and use it to vigorously scrub the deck.
It is important to pay special attention to any areas that may be especially dirty or have a buildup of grime.
A good rule of thumb is to scrub the deck for about 10 minutes, or until the solution has started to break down the dirt and grime.
Using a Pressure Washer
When it comes to pressure washing a deck, it is important to make sure that you are using the right pressure washer and pressure settings.
To begin, you should select a pressure washer that is appropriate for the size of the deck and the type of material it is made from.
Most decks can be cleaned with a pressure washer that has a pressure rating of 1500 to 3000 PSI.
When selecting a pressure washer, you will also need to consider the nozzle type.
The nozzle size and type will determine the flow rate and the pattern of the water jet.
It is important to choose a nozzle that will provide an even distribution of pressure over the entire surface of the deck.
Generally, a fan nozzle is the best option for cleaning a deck, as it will provide the most even coverage of pressure.
When pressure washing a deck, it is important to use a low-pressure setting.
This will help to avoid damaging the deck and the surrounding areas.
The pressure should be set to a level that is just strong enough to remove dirt and debris.
It is also important to move the pressure washer wand in a back-and-forth motion, keeping a steady distance from the deck.
This will help to ensure a more even pressure distribution and reduce the risk of damaging the deck.
Once the pressure washing is complete, it is important to rinse the deck with clear water.
This will help to remove any remaining dirt or cleaning solution residue.
The deck should then be allowed to dry completely before sealing or walking on it.
This will help to ensure the deck is free of moisture and ready for sealing or walking.
Rinse the Deck with Clear Water
Once you have pressure washed your deck, it is important to rinse it with clear water.
This will help remove any remaining dirt and debris that may have been left behind.
The best way to do this is to use a garden hose with a spray nozzle and direct the stream of water over the entire deck.
Make sure to rinse all sides of the deck, including the railings and stairs, to ensure that all dirt and debris is removed.
If you have a large deck, you may want to consider using a pressure washer on a low setting with a wide spray nozzle to reach the entire deck.
This will help you save time and energy.
Once you have finished rinsing, allow the deck to dry for at least 24 hours before walking on it or sealing it.
It is important to allow the deck to completely dry before doing any maintenance on it, as this will help preserve the wood and prevent any damage.
Allow the Deck to Dry
Once the pressure washing is complete, it is important to allow the deck to dry for at least 24 hours before walking on it or adding any sealant.
The pressure washing process will remove dirt, debris, and grime from the deck, and a thorough drying period gives the deck a chance to fully absorb the water and dry out completely.
This ensures the sealant will be able to properly bind to the surface and provide the desired protection from the elements.
To help speed the drying process, use a leaf blower to remove any excess water from the surface, and prop up any furniture to allow air to flow more freely underneath.
Additionally, be sure to keep the area free of any debris that could potentially re-soil the deck while it is drying.
Final Thoughts
Pressure washing a deck is a simple and effective way to freshen up your outdoor living space.
By following the steps outlined here clearing the deck, making a pressure washing solution, scrubbing the deck, using a pressure washer, rinsing with clear water, and allowing the deck to dry you can have a beautiful and clean deck in no time.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and give your deck the clean it deserves.