How To Pressure Wash Deck With Bleach?
Deck cleaning is a daunting job but can’t be avoided. A well-kept deck adds value to your house’s worth. Therefore, queries like What sort of chemicals you can use on deck? How much pressure you can use for cleaning? What tools are required? How you will keep the surroundings intact without any damage and what safety rules you should follow? You will be answered in detail here.
In this article, I have explained the procedure to pressure wash the deck with bleach.
Can we use bleach in the pressure washer for deck cleaning?
As you might know, bleach is a highly cohesive solution and can be used for effective cleaning. It can remove grown rot and mildew. Still, the use of bleach especially in a pure state is not recommended.
This is because it has an active chemical compound sodium hypochlorite which is highly acidic. Adding bleach directly to a pressure washer can destroy it.
The water pump, metal, or rubber parts can be clogged with bleach and you’ll have to look for maintenance service sooner than later.
Therefore, use it after diluting. If you don’t know how to do so. Don’t worry we’ve explained it below.
| Point to note:
Some manufacturers do not advise using bleach in the washer. And may void the warranty over its use. To be on the safe side go through your pressure washer manual to know if it is safe to use with bleach. |
Procedure To Prepare Bleach Solution:
- Make a dilute mixture by using one portion of bleach with four portions of water to dense the solution. The portion of water varies as it depends on which bleach you are using. If you are using bleach having 5 to 7% of sodium hypochlorite, use a 1:4 ratio. If the bleach has 3% sodium hypochlorite lower the water usage by a 1:3 ratio.
- Check your siphon hose for clogging or breakage. Clean or repair them in such a scenario. If everything is alright, take the one-sided strainer can put it into the bleach solution, the other end which is a soft PVC tube will fit in the water pump of the pressure washer.
- Select the area where the pressure washer will serve you best in the cleaning process. Make a place for the bucket nearby for easy access.
- Gear up yourself with protective clothing, gloves, and eyewear.
Pressure Washing Deck with Bleach Solution
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Make connections:
1. Attach a garden hose to the pressure washer for deck washing.
2. Attach the soap nozzle usually comes in black color to the gun wand of the washer
3. Establish the connection between the pressure washer, gun, and hoses as per your model requirements.
Also Read: Which pressure washer nozzle for a deck?
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Start the pressure washer
Jolt the pressure washer by triggering the recoil cord or switching on the electric current flow.
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Set pressure adjustments
Start with the lowest pressure settings so that the washer sprays low-pressure water.
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Pressure washing
Start pressure washing by taking proper aim and igniting the gun trigger. The water force built by the pressure washer will draw the diluted bleach solution through the siphon hose and combine it with water. Keep on cleaning until done.
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After pressure washing
When you’re done with pressure washing, stop the washer to empty the bleach solution. Then, refill the bucket with clean water and start the pressure washer to take out the remains of bleach from it.
Deck cleaning solutions:
Vinegar
Among deck cleaning solutions, vinegar is the safest option for novice homeowners. As it is readily available at home. It contains acetic acid which behaves as a neutralizer and can be used on wood safely.
Oxalic acid
Although oxalic is not as commonly available at home. You can easily purchase it from online stores. This one is a better option than plain vinegar; as it is more effective and adds brightness and shines to the wood.
Oxygen bleach
This bleach has sodium percarbonate as its active ingredient. This option is plant friendly as compared to other bleaches in the market. It can gently clean rigid stains without damaging the wood fiber.
Bleach
Like vinegar, it is easily available in the market and a relatively cheap option. We’ve explained in this article how you can use it with pressure washers safely. Bleach is mostly used by pressure washing companies for cleansing.
Trisodium phosphate (TSP)
As you might have heard, as a paint stripper this can also be used for deck cleaning. It is mostly recommended by DIY-ers but be careful with it. No doubt, it can help in removing algae and grime but it can strip the paint from nearby surfaces. Make sure they are covered properly.
Best homemade wooden deck cleaner:
Ingredients:
- Liquid dish soap (without ammonia) – 2 tablespoons
- Water – 1 gallon
- Rubbing alcohol – 1 pint
- Oxygen bleach – 1 quart
Procedure: Mix them till well combined. And boom your homemade cleaner is ready to use.
Best homemade composite deck cleaner:
Ingredients:
- White or apple cider vinegar – ½ cup
- Baking soda – ¼ gallon of water
Procedure: Combine them and pour this mixture into the whole deck area. Let it stay for a while then rinse it with clean water.
| Do not add granular cleaners in pressure washers, they may stick in washer parts and create a clog. |
Conclusions:
There is a whole dilemma about whether to use bleach on the deck surface or not. Because it is easily available in the market and is cheaper than other cleaners in the market.
In this blog, I have discussed the topic in detail and explained how can you use bleach with pressure washers. Follow the simple procedure and gear up for cleaning.
Still, if you notice unusual results or any damage. I would suggest you stop right there to avoid extensive damage. Your keen observation will be the key point to reflect on the ending cleaning results.
So, watch closely after ensuring your security with the right tools, wearing, and spirit. GOOD LUCK!
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