How to Power Wash a Cedar Deck
A clean cedar deck, with its deep red hues, is a decorative addition to a home. Cedar is a wood sometimes used for decks for its natural ability to ward off bugs and insect infestation. Unlike other wood types, it runs a low risk of being damaged by termites or carpenter ants. Cedar, however, does not come without issue. The wood can be damaged during traditional power washing techniques used on other deck types. Clean with care. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Ensure the cedar deck has been dry for at least three days. If rain has occurred, wait to power wash the deck.
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Apply a 40-degree fan tip to the power washer hose. This special tip is available where most power washers are sold or rented.
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Mix water and oxalic acid according to the manufacturer's recommended ratio. Oxilic acid is a wood brightener sold under many brand names and is available in most home improvement centers.
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Turn the power washer to its lowest pressure setting. Do not use pressure over 3000 psi.
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Hold the tip of the sprayer 3 to 4 feet away from the wood. Spray left to right in a wide sweeping motion, going over each area of the wood only once.
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Tips & Warnings
Cedar can chip flake during power washing. Only wash if the deck has mold or other debris not easily removed by sweeping or mopping.
Do not use bleach on the cedar. Do not increase the pressure of the sprayer if stains are not washed away. This can cause damage to the deck.
