Without a pressure washer, getting a deck truly clean takes back-bending scrubbing and hours out in the hot sun. The good news is that if you have the right tools, it can be done much faster and much better. However, it’s also important to remember that wood is sensitive. You must follow the right steps to ensure you keep it safe while getting it clean.
At Hydro Tek we offer not only the pressure washers you need but the various accessories you need as well, along with water recycle systems and much more. Read on for a simple guide on how to wash a deck with a pressure washer and then reach out to us if you have additional questions on what equipment would work best for your needs.
Begin by getting yourself and the deck ready
First things first, give the deck a good sweep. Then rinse and wet it down with your garden hose, making sure that it’s thoroughly wet and that all dirt and debris is a thing of the past. To get yourself ready, grab some waterproof clothes, some gloves, and a pair of goggles.
Find the right pressure setting
You’ll use the unloader valve to find the correct pressure setting. If you want a lower pressure, turn the unloader counterclockwise, and turn it clockwise if you want higher pressure. Which is right will depend on the type of wood you have. If your deck is made of a soft wood such as pine, then you’ll need lower water pressure. Start by picking a test spot on your deck and start at around 600 PSI. Go higher if necessary but be careful because you can cause damage if the pressure is too high.
Use the right nozzle
We recommend using a quick connect tip nozzle that has either a 25-degree or 40-degree output. Using a quick-connect option means that you can cover a much larger surface area, which means the job’s going to get done faster. Start out using a back and forth spray motion and stay about two feet above the ground. Don’t let the nozzle get any closer than that to your wood or you may damage it.
Stay safe at all times
As you’re cleaning your deck, there’s nothing so important as keeping your safety in mind. Don’t point the nozzle at another person, at an animal, or at glass. It may seem obvious, but many people have no idea just how powerful a pressure washer is. It can do real damage and cause injuries if sprayed directly at a person.
If you’re interested in cleaning your deck, or using a pressure washer for any other purpose, then it’s a good time to contact Hydro Tek at 800-274-9376 . We offer a wide range of options, any one of which may work perfectly for your needs. We’re happy to go over what you plan to use it for and what your goals are in order to find the right package for you. Call today!