Pressure washing is an effective cleaning technique that utilizes highly pressurized water to remove dirt, grime, and stains without having to scrub them off. Pressure washers are very versatile machines, and the pressure and power stream of the water can be adjusted to suit different surfaces, such as:

• Windows
• Driveways
• Wooden decks
• Pools
• Vehicles

Can I get a damaged deck from pressure washing?

Though pressure washing does not usually cause damage to a surface if the PSI is adjusted accordingly, it is possible for the pressure of the water to be too high and cause damage. When pressure or power washing a sensitive surface like a wooden deck, it is important to keep the pressure of the water at a low level to prevent potential damage.

What Damage Can It Cause to the Deck?

If the pressure of the water is too high, it can cause splintering and damage to the wood fibers, especially in materials like timber.

Splintering that is already present can also be worsened by aggressive pressure or power washing.

Composite decks, which generally consist of wood fibers and plastics, may also be damaged by pressure washing, which can potentially cause chipping of the composite material.

How Can I Prevent a Damaged Deck from Pressure Washing?

If using a pressure washer at a low-pressure level, the chances of causing damage to a deck are very slim. Additionally, if utilizing an effective cleaning solution alongside the pressure washer, you will not have to depend only on the water pressure to clean off dirt and grime. Using a cleaning solution can lift contaminants from the surface, creating an easily washable layer and leaving a clean surface underneath.

Interested in Pressure Washing Chemicals for Your Company?

Tidal Washers provides a selection of industrial-strength chemicals for various cleaning applications. Our products will effectively clean dozens of surfaces, from your wooden deck to your truck.

You can browse our selection of products here, or reach out to our staff here with any special requests or assistance in finding the best product for your needs.