 |
Cleaning Decks and Fences the Right Way
Using your pressure washer to remove the sap, dirt, dust, insects, bird droppings, mud, etc., that can accumulate on your deck or fence is very rewarding! Seeing your deck or fence looking like new again just makes you feel good. Most homeowners power wash decks & fences on a yearly or 18 month basis. I pressure wash early, in spring, so I can enjoy the results all summer. You can use an electric pressure washer for decks, but it might be somewhat slow work since electric pressure washers are generally not as powerful as gas powered pressure washers. Electric pressure washers are excellent for cleaning cars, garage floors, smaller walkways, outdoor furniture, etc. But gas powered pressure washers are outfitted with high pressure producing axial cam pumps that really get the larger cleaning jobs done quickly. If you're looking for an economical and powerful gas pressure washer, I can highly recommend this Northstar pressure washer at Northern Tool + Equipment
Click on the photo or text below to see this Northstar model at Northern Tool + Equipment
"NorthStar Gas Powered Cold Water Pressure Washer — 2700 PSI, 2.5 GPM"
And if you're preparing to re-seal your deck or
fence, you probably already know you must pressure washer it first.
(Make sure you follow the sealer manufacturers advice about pre-and-post sealer drying times and
application procedures!)
Don't forget that many times you can snag a great bargain on a pressure washer at
It's very important to keep in mind that wood can be easily damaged by using too much water pressure - or putting the nozzle too close to the deck or fence surface!
And different woods have different hardness factors. Wood can fray, gray, splinter or "fur" if you're not careful, so proceed very slowly and carefully. Always begin power washing by holding the
white nozzle
at least 3-4 feet away from the dirty surface. Then slowly move the nozzle closer, IF needed. Change from the white nozzle, to a more powerful nozzle, only if necessary.
A little practice makes perfect, but here's the general guideline for cleaning decks & fences: Your Washer's PSI Rating and Closest Nozzle Distance from Surface: 2,000 to 3,000 PSI --- 12" to 24" 3,000+ PSI --- 18" to 36"
Just MAKE SURE that the detergent or chemical you use states that it is especially formulated for use in pressure washers. And remember to use your low-pressure (black) nozzle for applying soap or chemicals. What about bleaches or home-made cleaning "recipes"? NEVER! NEVER! You'll likely ruin your pressure washer - and the very
surface you're trying to clean.
MY TIP: Most of us are eager to get our cleaning projects done, so we don't give the pressure washer detergent or chemical enough time to fully do its job! Read your detergent bottle label - it'll advise you that the detergent should rest on the dirty surface for at least a few minutes. This really, truly helps. You'll be amazed at how quickly stains and dirt lift once the detergent has had a chance to do its job. There are some excellent, specialty detergents formulated to clean decks & fences --- and some of these detergents are biodegradeable and environmentally friendly too! Homeowners now have more choices. Additional Note: for faster fence cleaning, make sure you wash the fence from top to bottom. Sounds very basic, but you'd surprised how many of us forget this while we're washing. MY TIP: If you're interested a pro-quality attachment like an extension pole, water broom or flat surface cleaner, I can recommend www.PressureWashersNow.com. They have a great selection of high-quality parts & accessories at some of the lowest prices I've ever seen. Check out www.PressureWashersNow.com. FAQ's About Pressure Washers & Troubleshooting Tips
|
