Pressure Washing A Deck
1: Assess your project and
develop a plan for cleaning that considers what direction the deck drains and
the location of fragile objects such as windows and light fixtures which can be
shattered by the powerful water stream. Plan to work in the direction that
water drains so you're not fighting gravity.
2: Select a nozzle, or tip, for
the project. Nozzles attach to the end of the pressure-washing wand that is
connected by a hose to the pressure washer pump and motor. Nozzles determines
the water pressure - the smallest angle, or opening, will deliver the most
power. Most manufacturers suggest a PSI of 2400 to 2600 for decks and most
models include a nozzle specifically for cleaning decks; consult the owner's
manual for help selecting the right nozzle.
3: Attach any accessories, such
as extension wands, when you connect the nozzle.
4: Put on protective eyewear and
gloves before starting your pressure washer. Also, check that all connections
are tight; a loose nozzle can become a projectile that can hurt people or
damage property when you power up.
5: Start the pressure washer and
test the spray. Begin by spraying away from the deck and then slowly point the
wand toward it from 3 to 4 feet away. Make a few passes and then stop for a
moment to see if the surface is clean. If not, move closer. Make slow, methodical
passes to rinse the deck of all dirt and other debris using water only.
6: After turning the pressure
washer off, add a chemical for treating decking; consult the owner's manual for
help selecting the right chemical solution. Add the chemical using the injector
or special nozzle on the pressure washer. If you won't be applying a chemical
solution to the surface, proceed to step 8.
7: Start the pressure washer and
test the spray. Begin by spraying away from the deck and then slowly point the
wand toward it from approximately the same distance as when you rinsed the
deck. Make slow, methodical passes to coat the deck evenly with the chemical
solution.
8: After waiting 5 to 10 minutes
to let the solution work, pressure wash the deck again using water to rinse
away the chemical.
