Power washer and wood deck maintenance

[PJ O'Donovan]

Recently purchased a 1800 psi electric power washer and cleaned 1000 sq ft pine deck after 5 years of neglect with watewr only.

I was motivated by an astronomical bid from a local contractor and decided to invest $170 to determine if I could do it myself instead.

Power washer worked like a charm, removing grime and mildew in no time at all. Property is located in Blue Ridge section of North Carolina and winters can be harsh coupled with the fact I am surrounded by trees (keeps it cool but very little sun).

Now that I own the power washer, I intend to keep after the deck more diligently.

My question is- If I keep after the deck with the power washer regularly do I need to apply a wood preservative? The deck is 5 years old.

Would appreciate suggestions from those more knowledgeable. Thanks

[PJ O'Donovan]

Bought a Karcher 1800 psi electric at Lowes.

Since I am 72 years old and retired with the luxury of time available, I was in no rush.

Did as much as I felt like as long as I felt like so I didn't time the entire 1000 sq ft.

Recollect first section maybe 250 sq ft with heavy black grime took me about an hour to clean. It went faster when I became more accustomed to the contraption.

[Joe Doe]

Thanks for the reply, I was sitting on the fence about getting an electric washer and you have just suceeded in pushing me over. I have no gasoloine powered tools (electric mower, line trimmer etc.) and a very small deck (less than 200 sq ft). I would prefer electric because I hate breathing gasoline fumes was just not sure it could do a good job.

Thanks.

Roland

[jeffc]

You don't know what harsh is, boy!

[Karen]

Cold weather doesn't damage deck much. The sun and water do.

Oil stain is a good idea. Speed pad or roller is fast and easier on your back than brush.

[Joe Doe]

If you do this, does the sprayer have to be dedicated for stain or can the stain be easily cleaned out and the sprayer used for other tasks. Likewise, can you use a sprayer that had say home defense and use it for this application.

I guess what I am asking is what solvent are deck stains/preservatives dissolved in and are they water compatible (i.e. will residual water from washing out the sprayer screw them up).

Roland