There’s a lot to keep track of as a homeowner: what that one weird light switch controls, where the breaker box is, how often to clean the filter in your A/C. Even homeowners who feel comfortable with most of it can struggle to know how to clean and restore their deck.
Decks need a special kind of TLC, especially wood ones. Let’s take a look at what professional deck cleaning and wood restoration can do for you!
What Does Deck Cleaning Involve?
Deck cleaning typically uses a combination of methods to strip off dirt, pollution, and mildew off a deck. Pressure washing can be used on most decks, and scrubbing with detergent can get the more delicate spots.
Your deck endures constant foot traffic and is exposed to the elements. Periodic cleanings help it to look great and keep it in tip-top shape.
Benefits of Deck Cleaning
- Removes layers of dirt and pollution that can hide the natural beauty of your deck. Do you remember what shade your deck originally was? If you can’t remember, it’s probably time for a clean.
- Clears off cobwebs, nests and other plants. If your deck goes unused, even just for a winter, critters will try to move in on you. Regular cleaning can help clear them out.
- Cleans mold, mildew, and moss. Non-animal life on your deck can be even more dangerous. Mold and mildew can have serious effects on respiratory health for your whole family.
- Prevents permanent stains. Dirt and grime can eventually cause staining, especially on the wooden parts of your deck. A good clean prevents that from happening.
- Can lengthen the lifespan of your deck. Cleaning is a great opportunity to spot places in your deck that need repair before they become big issues.
Is Pressure Washing Bad for My Deck?
Pressure washing is a major tool in the arsenal when it comes to cleaning a deck. It’s a safe and straightforward way to remove even tough stains and grime.
But it also takes a lot of skill and a lot of practice. Inexperienced homeowners tend to use too much pressure, which can permanently damage your deck. Homeowners may also use chemicals and detergents that are more caustic than needed.
So, while pressure washing is probably fine for your deck, it’s better to go with a licensed and insured company that knows what they’re doing.
Is Pressure Washing Safe for My Family?
Needless to say, you need to keep kids and pets away from any work with a pressure washer going on, as the spray could be dangerous or even deadly. But the high pressures (and sometimes temperatures) involved actually minimize the need for poisonous cleaning chemicals.
Anything you spray your deck with will wash up on your garden, lawn, and patio. Thankfully, most power washing companies use non-toxic cleaners.
Can I Do It Myself?
You can, but you probably shouldn’t.
First, it’s way too easy to damage your deck. Wood decks, for instance, require you to use the right tip – if the right one wasn’t included with the pressure washer you rented, you risk damaging the wood.
Second, it’s way too easy to hurt yourself or others. Wounds from pressure washers often look minor at first, but they can result in serious infections.
Finally, professionals can do a great job in a fraction of the time it would take a homeowner. Save your weekend for relaxing on your spotless deck!
What Does Wood Restoration Involve?
Deck cleaning is an important part of the process, but it’s not the only part. It also involves making any necessary repairs, stripping off old finish, and applying new finish or stain.
Restoration can breathe new life into furniture or your deck.
Benefits of Wood Restoration
- Makes old pieces look new. Restoration can bring back the natural beauty of wood in even the most scruffy pieces.
- Can extend the lifespan of a piece. Making necessary repairs and applying a new finish can easily make a wood deck last 5-10 years longer.
- Protects outdoor pieces from water and mold damage. Patio furniture and decks get the worst of both summer and winter weather. A strong finish can keep them protected.
- Can remove permanent stains from a piece. If your wood already has permanent stains, sanding and refinishing can remove them.
Is Wood Restoration Worth It?
If you’re seriously considering getting a new fence or deck, you may want to look into wood restoration instead. The process can revitalize and rejuvenize for a fraction of the price.
A good, deep clean is the first step of any restoration process.
How Do I Find a Deck Cleaning Company?
Licensed and Fully Insured
The most important thing is to make sure that your power washer is licensed and carries insurance. If a company is licensed, you’ll have some protection from the Maryland Home Improvement Commission if things go wrong.
Insurance is key, too. If a company doesn’t carry adequate insurance and your home is damaged or a worker is injured on the job, it may be your homeowner’s insurance that picks up the tab.
Great Local Track Record
You also want someone who’s done a great job on homes in their community. Before-and-after photos are useful, but take a look at online reviews, too. One online review might be inaccurate, but any trends you see in the reviews – positive or negative – probably indicate that something’s there.
Take a look at who you see working in your neighborhood, too. Power washers, like other home improvement contractors, may place a sign in front of properties they’re working on. What a way to get your own before-and-after peeks!
Looking for Pressure Washing in the Baltimore Area?
If you’re looking to start a pressure washing or wood restoration project in the Baltimore area, there’s no shortage of companies to call.
But if you want a licensed and insured contractor with years of experience in the local area, call Maryland Pro Wash today! Get a free quote and see what we can do for you.
