Wood Deck Cleaning

Midwestpro · Posted: Mon Dec 03, 2007 3:26 pm Post subject: Wood Deck Cleaning

Most people believe that wood deck cleaning with a pressure washer is all about the pressure, when in fact nothing could be further from the truth. Being a contractor, I have seen many decks that have battle wounds on them from inexperienced contractors or home owners attempting to restore a deck without the correct knowledge or equipment. Even a small pressure washer can put out enough pressure to cause furring and splintering of the wood leaving scars. These scars and imperfections will show through the deck sealer and take away from the appearance of your investment.

Wood deck cleaning the proper way is about using the right cleaners and low pressure. No more than 1000 PSI should be used to clean pressure treated lumber and even less on cedar decks. When cleaning a large area like the floor of the deck, the wand should be moved in a half moon type motion. This golf swing like motion will feather in the cleaned areas and give the whole deck floor a clean uniformed look. This is the correct way of washing a deck as opposed to starting and stopping or abruptly switching directions which will cause unsightly wand marks.

Another alternative is to hire a professional deck cleaning company to do the work for you. Through research and experience a professional company can restore a deck using the proper equipment and chemicals eliminating the risk of damage to your property and assuring you get the full life and use out of your wooden deck.