How to Properly Pressure Wash Your Deck or Patio

Outdoor living spaces like decks and patios are some of the most enjoyable areas of a home, especially in Suffolk, VA, where we get to experience all four seasons. But between the rain, humidity, pollen, and foot traffic, these surfaces can accumulate a significant amount of dirt, mildew, algae, and stains over time.

Pressure washing is one of the most effective ways to restore these areas to their original beauty. However, it's not as simple as grabbing a pressure washer and blasting away. It's easy to cause more harm than good without the right approach.

At Pressure Washing Suffolk, we've cleaned hundreds of decks and patios of all shapes, materials, and conditions. We've seen the results of improper techniques—splintered wood, damaged finishes, and uneven surfaces.

We take pride in using the proper methods, tools, and cleaning solutions for every job. If you're considering pressure washing your deck or patio on your own or just curious about how it should be done, here's what you need to know.

Know Your Surface Material

Before starting, it's crucial to identify what kind of surface you're dealing with. Different materials require different approaches.

• Wood decks (pressure-treated pine, cedar, or redwood) are more delicate and can be damaged by high pressure.
• Composite decking is more durable but requires lower pressure and gentle cleaners to avoid surface degradation.
• Concrete patios can generally withstand higher pressure, but even concrete can be etched or stained if mishandled.
• To prevent joint damage and surface chipping, stone pavers and tiles need specific care.

Understanding the material helps us determine the appropriate pressure level, nozzle type, and cleaning solution.

Choose the Right Equipment and Settings

Using a pressure washer with adjustable settings is key. We often work with 1,500 to 3,000 PSI (pounds per square inch) machines depending on the surface.

• For wood, we typically keep the PSI between 500 and 1,200.
• We may go as high as 3,000 for concrete and stone, but always with caution and control.
• We pair the right PSI with wide fan spray nozzles—usually 25 or 40 degrees—for even, safe cleaning.

Too much pressure or the wrong nozzle can gouge wood, strip finishes, or push water into joints and cracks where it doesn't belong.

Use Safe, Effective Cleaning Solutions In Suffolk, VA

While water alone can remove surface grime, we often use environmentally safe detergents or degreasers to tackle mold, mildew, algae, and embedded dirt more effectively. These solutions help break down the grime, requiring less pressure and minimizing wear on your deck or patio.

We always pre-treat the surface and let the solution dwell for several minutes before rinsing. This step is crucial for wood surfaces to avoid repeated passes that can damage the fibres.

Work Methodically

Pressure washing is as much about technique as it is about equipment. We always wash in the direction of the grain for wood and use smooth, overlapping strokes to avoid streaks or lap marks.

Starting at one end of the deck or patio, we work section by section, maintaining a consistent distance from the surface, usually between 12 and 18 inches. Uneven pressure can cause visible lines or blotchy results.

Corners, steps, and edges require special attention, and we ensure thorough cleaning without focusing too much pressure on any single spot.

Mind the Surroundings

One of the often-overlooked parts of pressure washing is protecting what's around the work area. Before we begin, we cover nearby plants, move furniture, and shield windows or doors from overspray.

Decks and patios are often surrounded by landscaping, and we make sure our detergents are safe for plant life. We also manage water runoff carefully to prevent erosion or unwanted pooling.

Allow Time for Drying and Maintenance

After a proper pressure wash, the surface needs time to dry, especially if you plan to reseal, stain, or paint a wooden deck. Depending on weather conditions, we usually wait 24 to 48 hours before applying any treatments.

If the deck or patio shows signs of wear, we suggest follow-up maintenance, like resealing wood or refilling joints between pavers. A clean surface is the first step in a longer-lasting outdoor space.

Why Trust a Professional Team In Suffolk, VA?

While DIY pressure washing might seem appealing, it comes with risks. Improper pressure, poor technique, or the wrong cleaning agents can damage your investment and reduce the lifespan of your deck or patio.

Our team at Pressure Washing Suffolk is trained to clean effectively without harming surfaces. We bring years of experience, high-quality equipment, and environmentally friendly solutions to every job. Whether your outdoor area needs a seasonal refresh or a deep restoration after years of buildup, we can bring it back to life.

A clean, well-maintained deck or patio looks better and creates a safer, more enjoyable space for your family and guests. If you're in Suffolk or nearby communities and want the job done right, contact us today to schedule a professional cleaning.