Owning your own home comes with many advantages, but it also comes with many responsibilities. Maintaining your composite decking is one of them. Pressure washing is an effective way to remove dirt and stains.
This powerful cleaning technique can bring back the beauty of your decking, increase its lifespan, and create a safe, welcoming area for your family and friends.
In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of pressure washing decking. We’ll cover the unique properties of the materials, important steps to take before starting, and a detailed walkthrough of the pressure washing procedure.
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By following these expert tips and techniques, you can achieve professional-level results without the need for extensive scrubbing or harsh chemicals, making maintenance, not a walk in the park, but a whole lot easier.
Materials & Benefits
Composite decking is a modern alternative to traditional wood decking, offering a blend of durability and esthetics. Lets take a closer look:
- Material Composition: Typically made from a blend of wood fibers and recycled plastic, offering the best of both worlds.
- Durability and Longevity: Resistant to rot, decay, insects, and fading making it a long-lasting choice that can have a lifespan of 20-30 years if looked after.
- Weather Resistance: Can withstand harsh weather conditions.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal upkeep – a simple cleaning with soap and water is all it needs.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Composite decking is available in a wide range of colors, textures, and styles
Another great reason for choosing composite decking is that it is often slip-resistant, even when wet, making it a safer choice for outdoor spaces, especially around pools or patios. Also, many composite decking materials incorporate recycled plastic, reducing the demand for new materials and contributing to a more sustainable environment.
When we look at the combined benefits of composite decking, it becomes more clearer to why it is such a popular choice for garden design.
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Pre-Rinse & Prepping
Its important to realise at this point that preparation is key if you want to effectively wash and clean your garden decking.
The first step is to clear the entire deck of furniture and objects that might interfere with the cleaning process. Next, use a broom or leaf blower to sweep away leaves, debris, and any excess dirt.
Once you’ve cleared your path, it’s time to pre-rinse. Using a garden hose, spray water over the deck to prepare it for the soap. If using a pressure washer, its important you use the correct setting, keep it on the lowest and maintain a distance of at least 8 inches from the deck surface to avoid damage.
For the cleaning solution, mix warm water with a mild dish soap or use a cleaner specifically designed for composite decking. As always, carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Read more about how you can help prepare your area for pressure washing
Technique & Tips
As mentioned above, it’s important that you set the pressure correctly, typically not exceeding 3,100 pounds per square inch. The hose should be angled at 40 to 60 degrees. Before you start, be sure to consult both the power washer’s manual and the composite deck care instructions for specific settings.
When washing, you should use a “sweeping” motion from left to right, starting from the house and moving towards the far side. This technique ensures thorough cleaning and prevents missed spots.
Again, the pressure washer nozzle should never be closer than 8 inches from the deck surface to avoid damage. For best results, use a fan tip on the pressure washer. This tip distributes the spray evenly, reducing the risk of surface damage.
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Conclusion
Pressure washing is a powerful way to keep your garden decking clean and safe. By understanding the unique properties of composite materials and following the right steps, you can achieve some fantastic results.
The process involves careful preparation, using the right cleaning solutions, and operating the pressure washer with the correct settings.
When it’s all said and done, clean garden decking not only looks better but also lasts longer. Regular cleaning helps to prevent the buildup of mold, mildew, and other harmful substances that can shorten the life of your deck.
By sticking to these guidelines, you can make sure your composite deck stays in top shape for years to come, giving you more time to enjoy your garden and less time worrying about maintenance.
Thinking about pressure washing in the rain? Learn more
FAQs
Can I use a pressure washer on composite decking?
You should avoid using a pressure washer with a setting higher than 3100 psi, and always keep the nozzle at least 8 inches away from the surface of the decking. High water pressure can cause the decking to splinter and sustain long-term damage.
What is the most effective method to clean garden decking?
A good approach is to mix soap with warm water in a ratio similar to what you would use for dishwashing. Use a deck brush to scrub the surface, applying enough pressure to effectively remove any dirt. Composite materials are quite durable and can handle vigorous scrubbing.
Which nozzle should be used when pressure washing composite decking?
For cleaning composite decking, you might want to use a 25-degree nozzle for tougher stains or a 40-degree nozzle for less soiled or newer decks. The higher the degree of the nozzle, the gentler the pressure on the decking.
