The typical cost of a rental for one day is $40 to $100.
Apressure washeris a straightforward machine that can clean very well with only water.
However, it can ruin your deck if it’s not used properly.
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Take some time to become familiar with the machine before you unleash that cleaning power on your deck.
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Use a fan tip with a 40- to 60-degree spread.
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A rotating tip is also suitable if you use it carefully.
Test the Pressure Washer tweaks
Using a pressure washer takes a little practice.
Test your pressure and its effectiveness in an inconspicuous area, such as a stair tread or corner.
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Start with the pressure at 500 to 600 psi.
Increase the pressure incrementally until you find the right setting for proper cleaning.
Try not to get closer than six inches or you could damage the wood.
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attempt to maintain a consistent distance by moving your arm laterally back and forth.
Clean the deck boards from the house outward.
The goal is to achieve even cleaning with no “hot spots” or visible cleaning edges.
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Mix up the solution as recommended by the manufacturer.
However, when wood gets wet, the fibers may become raised, creating a rough surface.
You have a couple of options for remedying this problem.
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Sanding also opens up the wood’s pores so the wood soaks up the sealer or stain consistently.
double-check the wood is dry before sanding.
For the handrail, use no finer than 100-grit sandpaper.
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For the deck surface itself, use 60- to 80-grit sandpaper.
The best sander to use for a wood deck is a random orbit sander with a five-inch sanding pad.
