So you want to power wash your deck?

A wood deck is a place to relax, spend time with family, or entertain friends. Keep your deck looking like new with maintenance throughout the year. Regular upkeep will ensure it’s habitable and safe. A part of this upkeep entails the use of a power washer!

Power washing is not the most sexy thing to do to say the least, but it’s necessary, and plus it is efficient! However, it is not a toy to sling around your deck like a madman. It’s a machine capable of inflicting property damage and bodily harm, so be careful and listen up! 

We are going to tell you all about it and how you can do it in the most safe manner! 

What is deck power washing?

First and foremost, power washing is the use of heated, pressurized water that is used to remove loose paint, mold, algae, grime, dust, mud, chewing gum, and dirt from surfaces and objects like buildings, fences, masonry, some vehicles, and concrete or asphalt surfaces such as driveways or patios. 

This method is also applied to decks as well and is an effective cleaning method, but had some very slight variations. Some call for chemical stripper/brightener solutions to be used in order to restore the color of your deck and remove discoloration, but it’s optional. Both methods are effective, and the latter is more of a cosmetic addition if that suits your fancy!  

Steps to Power Wash Your Deck:

When you think of power washing your deck, it’s easy to overcomplicate the matter, but is pretty simple! Follow these steps and you’ll be in the clear:

Grab Your Power Washing Materials: 

• Pressure washer (Extension Pole/Telescoping Wand ~Optional)
• Soap/Solution / chemical stripper/brightener (Optional)
• 10-20 gallon Bucket 
• Spray Nozzle w/Spray tips and Syphon tube (for soap/solution)
• Garden hose and access to a water faucet
• Eye Goggles
• Plastic covering

Prepare Your Deck!

• Use plastic covering on any light fixtures, outdoor furniture, shrubbery/flowers, or any outdoor items in the surrounding area to avoid impact damage
• Close all windows and doors tightly 
• Pour soap/solution (or chemical stripper/brightener) in the 10-20 gallon bucket, placing the syphon tube in it afterward
• Hook up pressure washer w/garden hose connected to a water faucet 
• Prepare Nozzle w/necessary spray tip, categorized by angle and/or width (500-600lbs).
• Wear your Goggles!

Wash Away!

• Turn on the faucet!
• Spray vertically/horizontally in a steady motion top to bottom on only the surface intended to be washed typically 1-2 feet away. Never attempt to spray anyone! Cleaning higher stories may require additional investment of an extension pole/telescoping wand. 
• Let the solution sit for 5-10 min, avoid direct sunlight! 
• Remove syphon tube, press button on nozzle to remove excess soap/solution, spray cleaned surface down again. 

>> Read More on Deck & Fence Power Washing!

How to find a power washing company?

A simple “near me” search will allow you to compare prices and services in your area. May vary on where you live.

Finding a local power washing company is a smart choice to ensure proper cleaning and maintenance of your home’s exterior. You get what you pay for, so Cost-effectiveness is key! Cheapest doesn’t always mean the best. 

Save yourself some time, money, and unneeded hassle like I mentioned by doing your  research and investing with a long-term mindset! 

Final Word: 

Power washing the deck is probably one of the most effective forms of cleaning a deck out there, yet the most dangerous one. The highly pressurized, heated jet stream is a safety hazard, so make sure you prepare accordingly before taking action! 

While there may be a whole host of DIY-minded people, it is highly recommended to get in contact with a professional power washing service to get the job done to avoid the risk of accidents.  

Whether it be discoloration, algae, mold, mildew, or what have you, power washing powers through those tough, caked on stains and natural build-up on your deck, making it look brand new! Save money, time, and stress in the long run! 

Frequently Asked Power Washing Questions: 

How much does it cost to power wash your deck?

The cost to power wash your deck will vary depending on a number of factors such as regional price variations, size of deck, complexity of the work being done, but the average price range for power washing services falls between $230 – $380 nationally. Price match in your area to get the best deal!

Is it worth hiring someone to power wash my deck?

Absolutely! Naturally, with home improvement projects, we are inclined that we are more than capable of doing it ourselves, and that very well might be the case, but with every decision, there are marginal costs such as the potential risk of injury or property damage, which far outweigh the benefits of doing it yourself. 

What can go wrong with power washing my deck?

Power washing your deck, as mentioned before, has a lot of inherent risks that come along with it. If the procedures are not followed accordingly, property damage will be a byproduct. Wood decks can only hold so much pressure before the fibers begin to splint and break (500-600lbs max psi), and increasing it can ruin the foundation of the deck. Also, bodily damage is another huge one to mention. A power washer is tough enough to take the skin of your body, cause severe lacerations, and could turn you blind. Wear your protective gear at all times when using a power washer.