Is It Safe to Pressure Wash Wood? Essential Tips Before You Begin
Yes, you can pressure wash wood, but choosing the right amount of pressure is key
From siding and fences to decks and gazebos, your home likely features various wooden structures. Part of regular wood maintenance involves cleaning to remove the buildup of dirt, grime, and mildew. While there are many heavy-duty cleaners on the market, you might wonder if pressure washing wood is a faster and more effective solution.
The answer is yes, you can pressure wash wood. However, if you’re unsure about the type of wood or how to use the equipment properly, you might consider hiring a professional. Here’s what you need to know before you start spraying.
What to Know About Pressure Washing Wood
- Less Gentle Compared to Soft Washing: As the name suggests, pressure washing involves high pressure without the use of chemicals. In contrast, soft washing uses less pressure and requires detergents, which might be more suitable for certain types of wood.
- Pressure Varies by Wood Type: For softer woods, such as cedar and pine, the recommended maximum pressure is 600 psi. Hardier woods can withstand up to 1,500 psi.
- Risk of Damage: High pressure can cause damage if not used correctly. Consider the softness of the wood, and maintain an appropriate distance and angle when spraying. Start with the water about 16 inches away from the wood.
- No Additional Cleaners Needed: While cleaning solutions aren’t required for pressure washing, they can help treat particularly tough stains.
- Timing Matters: Spring is ideal for pressure washing as it removes winter grime, and the sun aids in drying. You can pressure wash up until fall, provided the cold weather hasn’t set in.
Pressure Washing vs. Soft Washing vs. Power Washing
Soft Washing: This gentler method uses lower pressure and often includes biodegradable chemicals to remove mold, dirt, and algae. It’s suitable for delicate surfaces like wood panel siding, fences, and cedar shake. If you’re concerned about applying too much pressure on your wood, soft washing is a good alternative.
Power Washing: Often confused with pressure washing, power washing also uses highly pressurized water but with the addition of hot water. This makes it suitable only for durable surfaces like concrete driveways and patios, not wood.
The cost of pressure washing depends on whether it’s a DIY project or done by professionals. Renting equipment can cost between $35 to $175 per day. Purchasing a pressure washer ranges from $100 to $1,000.
Hiring a professional costs about $0.10 to $0.50 per square foot. Given the complexity and potential for damage, hiring a professional pressure washer is often the best choice to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
Schedule Your Pressure Washing With Us Today!
The type of surface you want to clean and the desired results matter when it comes to choosing a soft vs. pressure wash. Our professionals can help you choose the best technique based on your property’s specific needs.
