One of the high priorities on your to-do list is managing and keeping your deck looking fresh, especially if you have just put it together recently. Outdoor elements such as harsh weather reflect even the most challenging materials, like composite decking may require a little TLC occasionally.
However, the question remains whether can you power wash composite decking. Asking this kind of query is normal because power-washing has increasingly become a go-to for sprucing up outdoor spaces such as pavers, driveways, and sidewalks. However, it might be enticing for homeowners to venture out and power wash their composite decking.
Still, pressure washing your delicate composite decking is generally not advised for several reasons. This blog will explore whether it is good enough to blast power wash on composite decking and, if so, what precautionary measures should be taken to avoid direct damage to your beloved decks.
Why Power Washing Your Composite Deck Yourself Might Be a Costly Mistake
The task of washing composite decking should be left to professionals with vast expertise in dealing with different kinds of decks and power washing points. The main reason you should stop embarking on a pressure washing journey for your composite decking is that the material of the composite deck is even softer than wood, and improper power washing can do more harm than good.
If you accidentally cause damage to your decks, it can set off a domino effect of problems that could ultimately require more maintenance needs and cost while cutting short the lifespan of your cherished decks. Diving into power washing your composite decking without the proper precautions may create a cascading series of issues that may seriously strain your pocket for undue maintenance and even compel you to replace your deck altogether.
NJ Cleaning Services: Breathe New Life into Your Home with Deck Cleaning and Window Washing services
Home Deck Cleaning Service in NJ consists of a team of experts armed with extensive knowledge, experience, and skill needed to make sure your decks transform to their original state while breathing new life into them. We will be thrilled to help you in the deck cleaning process with the efforts, knowing how much it will elevate your family’s quality of life. Our dedicated team of pressure-washing contractors always works like a pro in meeting all your expectations while exceeding your satisfaction.
Our New Jersey deck cleaning masters can proficiently blast away old age unsightly stains, leaving you with jaw-dropping results. If you also want to boost the value of your decks, trust our professionals to add substantial value to your property and preserve the renewed beauty of your decks. Window Washing Service in New Jersey is all about delivering unparalleled quality that not only ensures your windows gleam with shine but also leaves you smiling and completely satisfied. Our window cleaning services utilize innovative drone technology to new heights. We prioritize precision and safety in each project.
Our certified window cleaning team discreetly analyzes your window’s condition, dynamics, and layout to provide tailored cleaning plans for your needs. The moment we get the plan locked in per your requirements, we start executing our state-of-the-art drones into action. Our professionals are equipped with innovative technologies that feature high-resolution cameras; our drones are ready to tackle stubborn dirt and grime that is persistently affecting your view and your window’s magnetic appeal.
Power Washing Nightmare: Etching, Mold Growth, and a Deck’s Early Demise
Bringing the nozzle too close to the deck surface or setting the pressure too high can lead to significant cosmetic damage, permanently leaving “etching” on the deck surface. Composite decking typically features a protective finish that guards it against moisture.
But, if power washes damages or compromises this finish, it can become the open floodgate for trouble, and humidity can be easily trapped in, creating mildew or mold to party in and penetrate throughout each piece of scratched decking. Once the moisture sneaks in and the mold develops, it becomes exceedingly difficult to maintain your decks, and you might end up waving goodbye to your deck earlier than expected. Furthermore, damaged decking requires more money and time to refinish and combat moisture and decay.
Residential Pressure washing is the best solution to eliminate all layers of dirt accumulated on your home, making it look older and less appealing. If you are also afraid of knocking down your property’s curb appeal, going for affordable house washing services will not only boost the aesthetics of your adorable house but will remove all forms of grime from the surface of the building. Thus, trusting pros skilled in house washing services ensures your house looks its best without sustaining damage.
Power Washing? Maybe, but proceed with Caution!
Composite decking on your property increases its charm and offers a whole host of perks, such as a polymer finish that safeguards your expensive decks against grime and dirt build-up. Most of the time, we have seen that people are tempted to use a power washer that efficiently removes all the ingrained filth in the least time. Thanks to its speed and efficiency, we are constantly lured to give it a whirl. If you are also tempted to try it, follow essential precautions in this journey.
Clear The Deck
Before starting out cleaning your decks, remember to remove all the furniture carefully to avoid causing any form of scratching or scraping to your decks. It is also necessary to sweep away all the debris accumulated on the decks, such as dirt, litter, and grit, without causing any destruction. This is important to ensure that you have complete access to all deck sections to adequately pressure wash each nook and corner of your decks.
Under Pressure
Once all the furniture and debris have been gently removed from your deck, it is time to give your deck a jet power washer to clean off stubborn stains, algae, and dirt on your deck. Exercise caution: do not exceed 3100 PSI pressure and maintain a distance of at least 25 centimeters above the composite decking boards to avoid injuring your boards. Using excessive pressure can cause your decking surface to splinter and may damage your boards long-term.
Use Minimal Force
With the concentrated force of this stream, despite the lower-pressure power washer, the chances of inflicting destruction on your composite decking are still high. To deal with this issue, go for a fan attachment. These attachments help turn the jet flow to wider areas to reduce the strenuous pressure on your decking.
Go with The Grain
The best approach to cleaning your decks is to move the pressure washer in a left-to-right motion, following the length of each board individually. This way, you will clean the board one at a time and ensure maximum drainage and thorough cleaning—give them extra attention.
The Perks of Power Washing and Professional Cleaning Services
Power Washing Service attends to unchecked contaminants that wreak havoc on your home over time. Frequently investing in power washing helps you avoid the cost of replacing shingles, concrete, or siding. Not only that, but you can also save a bundle in the long run while saving your money for another good cause.
Power washing cleaning is like a knight in shining armor that prudently kick away all the airborne contaminants, dodging mold spores and other gunk and never giving them a chance to grow again – a triumph for your health and wallet. Hiring professionals for Restaurant cleaning Service ensures that your restaurant shines with state-of-the-art equipment that will get all your kitchen and dining areas perfectly whipped up into tip-top shape for your staff and customers. Partnering with a professional restaurant cleaning crew is imperative to ensure high, impeccable standards of cleanliness and hygiene for your business.
Their vast wealth of expertise ascertains that every aspect of your restaurant’s cleanliness significantly elevates and transforms the look and functionality of your establishment. Your in-house staff may need help to achieve a higher level of cleanliness, guaranteed by specialized cleaning professionals who come with top-notch cleaning techniques and tools to make your restaurant sparkle like never before.
Undoubtedly, adding composite decking to your property is a fantastic investment that increases the value of your home and boosts its visual appeal at the same time. On the other hand, knowing the right way to maintain composite decking properly is essential to keep it in perfect shape for a long time.
Homeowners often ignore the safety of using a pressure washer, which is a valid concern to address. But you can save your decks from damage by adhering to the manufacturer’s maximum PSI recommendations utilizing a pressure washer with a wide nozzle, and going along the grain of the decking; you can clean without fretting over structural harm or color loss. If you want to avoid damaging your decking area or do not have a power washer at home, plenty of other cost-effective methods exist to keep your deck looking its best and sustain its appearance in the long run.
FAQs
Q1: What is composite decking made of?
A1: Composite decking is made of incredibly lightweight recycled wood fibers and plastics that ensure its durability from splintering, rotting, or warping.
Q2: Can power washing damage composite decking?
A2: Yes, power washing your composite decking can lead to potential damage. That’s why hiring professionals for this purpose is recommended. This type of decking is made of delicate material that is vulnerable to scratches by high-pressure water.
Q3: How should I clean my composite decking?
A3: There are many other ways that you can use to clean your composite decking apart from regular power washing, such as sweeping regularly, which helps remove all the built-up dirt and debris from the decks and further reduces the chances of stains. You can also use a garden hose to rinse the surface of your decks to remove all the attached grime and dirt. A mild soap solution works excellent with a soft-bristled brush to smoothly clean the deck and remove all the hard spills and stains.
Q4: What pressure setting should I use to power wash my composite decking?
A4: If you want to power wash your composite decking, a low-pressure setting is generally recommended to avoid damage to the decking. However, a pressure setting between 15,000 and 2000 pounds per square inch (psi) is reasonable to execute the task. Lastly, always aim for a wide-angle nozzle and reduce the intensity of the stream.
Q5: Are there any alternative cleaning methods for composite decking?
A5: Yes, primary cleaning methods for composite decking are vinegar solution and baking soda paste, which help thoroughly clean your desks. In the vinegar solution, create a solution consisting of equal parts of vinegar and water. With gentle scrubs, you can apply this concoction with a soft brush or a sponge to the decking surface. The other baking soda paste involves mixing baking soda with plain water, and you can apply this paste to mildew or stain spots before scrubbing it with a soft brush.