How to Clean Decks

Start with a pressure washer. Depending on existing stain you may need a stripper solution. If you use it, wear safety equipment: goggles, long sleeves, pants, gloves, etc., and protect all living matter with tarps. Wet plants down prior to covering with tarp. Stripper can be applied with a pump sprayer or brush. The usual amount of active time is 15 minutes. Then rinse off with high pressure. Whether a stripper is needed or not, when cleaning a deck or fence, you must fan the pressured water in and out to prevent gouging of wood — i.e. high pressure water can cut wood if too close or if movement stops. Deck must be dried for 1 day before sanding of floor and hand rails. Also it’s a good idea to reset nails prior to sanding. After sanding, use a broom or blower to free the wood of any debris. Airless sprayers can be rented and cut your staining time by about 1/10. For even coats, fan in and out as with pressured water. Be sure to protect your home, plants, concrete, and underneath of the deck with plastic. You may also use a brush and roller.