The right deck can turn previously unused space behind a home into a beautiful outdoor room. As the popularity of outdoor kitchens has skyrocketed in recent years, so has the construction of new decks. However, these extensions of home can become a maintenance nightmare for homeowners.

Wooden decks are particularly susceptible to becoming dirty and dingy because they are constantly exposed to the elements. Even if it is sealed regularly, the deck will grow mold and begin to age. If thoroughly cleaned regularly, however, they can become an asset to the home no matter their age.

Making the Decision to Use a Pressure Washer

It is imperative that deck owners regularly clean their deck as part of preventative maintenance. The build-up of dirt and leaves on a wood or even composite deck not only makes it look unattractive. Overtime, this matter will encourage rotting and graying. Structures that are cleaned stay looking much newer, smell better, and stay structurally sound longer than those that are not. It is probably a good idea to give the deck a good cleaning from all angles at least once a year.

Though a pressure washer may not be on the top of non-essential items to purchase for the home, it is a good investment. In addition to yearly deck washing, it can be used to clean concrete like the driveway and pathways, take mold off of siding, and rinse vehicles. Of course, they can always be rented too.

How to Get Started

First time users are usually bewildered on just how to use the washer, but it is not very complicated. Before beginning, make sure that the water supply line is connected. Most washers only require a standard garden hose. It is imperative that the PSI of the pressure washer is set appropriately. Too much pressure can leave the wood rippled and warped. Most woods will be fine at anything less than 1500 PSI, but softer materials may require even lower settings.

The initial cleaning of the deck does not even involve the pressure washer. Wet the entire surface and use a cleaner to the specifications of the manufacturer. Most will require a good scrubbing with a synthetic brush. One with a long handle and few smaller scrubbers should do the trick without requiring any kneeling. If the cleaner’s instructions recommend a soaking period, ready the pressure washer during the wait.

Using the Pressure Washer

Some don’t see a reason to use a pressure washer to rinse despite the recommendation to do so by many deck detergent manufacturers, and prefer to use a regular garden hose and nozzle. Following the instructions of the cleaner is ideal because most hoses do not have enough water pressure to fully remove harmful chemicals from all of the crevices in the wood. If they are not removed, the chemicals may start to corrode the wood.

It may be a good idea to wear a mask or eye protection while using the pressure washer. The water can cause debris and cleaner to fly into the face of the operator, so be careful when working near walls and corners. It is also best to use a tip that creates a fan of water of 40° to 60°. Start the washer with the nozzle pointed away from the deck, other people, and windows. Double-check the pressure settings.

Evaluate the deck for the best way to sweep the spray over evenly. The spray should hit to wood at an angle so that dirt and cleaner can be lifted up and off of the deck. Be aware that prolonged pressure can depress the wood or cause fibers to life away from the surface. However, some overlap in coverage helps to fully dilute the cleaner. Avoid over exposing the surface to pressure by taking long, even strokes over the surface of each plank. Move the sprayer with the grain. To clean corners, sweep the sprayer through in a right angle motion. Be careful not to put too much pressure on the edges where the grain is exposed.

After the cleaner and dirt have been removed, let the deck thoroughly dry. Don’t worry if it looks spotty at first. The only way to truly evaluate the job is to allow it to sit overnight. One day later, the color of the deck should be even. The surface can be smoothed and missed spots can be cleaned manually. Treating and sealing the deck will be another day’s worth of labor, but it is not always necessary. The hardest part of the rest of the summer may be deciding where to place the patio furniture.