What nozzle to use on the pressure washer for a deck? Decks definitely increase the outdoor beauty of your home. But, when grease and dirt stains pile up on the wood after years of installment, they overshadow the overall look of the outdoor space.
Have you tried scrubs and other cleaning methods but the headstrong stains don’t peel off? Now, you’re tempted to point and shoot the stains with high-speed pressure to eliminate all debris.
This may look easy option but it requires the right pressure washer with the appropriate equipment and knowledge to power wash the deck. If you’ll exert extra force the wood may crack up or splitter and may result in costly and irreparable damages.
Power washers are strong enough to crack rocks and bricks but if properly used they can gently remove cobwebs and fiber.
We have written a comprehensive guide about how to pressure wash the deck appropriately with the right nozzle without damage. But before going deep into it let us know the effects of using the wrong pressure washer tip.
Effects of Choosing The Wrong Pressure Washer Nozzle For Deck
Deck washing is not an amateur’s task. It requires special care and techniques. And the most important care is using the best pressure washer nozzle for the deck to minimize damage risk. So if you are not using the suitable tip for the wooden decks then you can face following issues:
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Splintering and cracking in decks
Decks are exposed to severe harm if exposed to high-pressure washing with an incorrect nozzle. The problem may become hectic when there are minor splints on the deck, or wood is damaged. Power washing results in expanding further the splints and gives more damage.
PVC sheets on decks are of soft material, when you apply unreasonable pressure on PVC endures the worst impacts.
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Fragmentation in composite deck
Composite decks do not come with a warranty for pressure washing. If you’ve chosen the wrong nozzle for pressure washing, you are prone to face extreme damage. The damage may get beyond repair as pressure washing may chip off the composite material plastered on decks.
To save yourself from such ill-fated events, start the process when you do know about the correct nozzles and washer PSI requirements.
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Sanding is required for splinters after pressure washing
When the wood is exposed to unexpected pressurized water spraying, the fiber rises and creates a rough texture on top. Or the sudden rise may also cause splintering in wooden decks.
To clean the fiber you’ll require to sand the affected area. This will be an extra add-on to your existing task. Moreover, to apply sand on the deck you’ve to wait for the wood to dry completely.
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Finish and plastered stains loss
Pressure washers are designed to remove extreme stubborn stains. When you’ll pressure wash the deck. The finishing stain we embark on deck for an appealing look will also come off with other grime and dirt.
Any paint or finishing you’ve applied will wash away. This means you’ve to reapply such paints. This might be a costly and time taking process.
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Chemical harms
Different types of reagents are indulged in decks, and pressure washers also use chemicals to remove debris. The collision may react adversely. And they may also cause harm to plants and shrubs around the deck. Ensure their safety too by applying some shield or covering material.
Which pressure washer nozzle for a deck?
There are a few things to consider when choosing the right pressure washer nozzle for your deck. The most important one is to check the condition of deck before selecting a nozzle:
Analyzing The Quality And Condition of the Wood Deck Before Choosing A Nozzle
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Split or decaying wood
The foremost step before starting a pressure washing deck is to analyze the condition of the wood. Whether it is sound and able to handle high pressure. Check for splits, decay, or sensitive points. So you would avoid such areas from high pressure.
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Flashing
Analyze the condition of flashing- plastic guard or metal placed in between deck and house to prevent it from collecting dirt and debris.
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Loose or rusted fasteners
For railing and support structures different screws and anchors are placed. Look for loose connections or other parts that can cause barriers during pressure washing.
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Railings and banisters
Make sure they are well secured. Keep in check their height, and give a little push to be sure they won’t fall off when subjected to high pressure.
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Grill, fire pits, and chimneys
Decks and chimneys are made cozy and warm with chimneys, and to enjoy bbq parties fire pits are grills may have been installed in your backyard. Look for such flammable items before bombarding them with water.
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Lightning and electrical cords
Look out for unattended cords and wires around the area. As water and electricity do not combine well and may cause severe safety issues. Even in general when you’re are toying with power appliances ensure your safety first. With proper gear and gadgets.
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Surrounding plants
Shield the plants and other shrubs nearby to protect them from destruction.
Which pressure washer nozzle is best for a deck?
If you’re unfamiliar with pressure washing beforehand, always try on small insignificant areas first. As we’ve already mentioned how much damage you’ll face if not properly using the pressure washer on deck.
To properly clean the deck from stains and debris you have to choose the accurate nozzle for the washer.
There are a variety of nozzles that come with the washer. These nozzles decide how much pressure the machine exerts.
For effective cleaning results, you must know the purpose of these nozzles. Below here, we’ve explained nozzles in detail with their working purpose. And also mentioned which nozzle will be suitable for deck cleaning.
Types of pressure washer nozzles
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0˚ degree nozzle or Red nozzle
Red nozzles spray the sharpest and most pressure water. As they stream concentrated water from a tiny quarter size of coin nozzle. These nozzles are not recommended for delicate surfaces. They are best for extremely hard and concrete surfaces. Do not use these for cleaning the deck.
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15˚ degree nozzle or yellow nozzle
These yellow nozzles spread the water at 15˚ and are used for removing hard stains and paint. They have lesser pressure than red nozzles as the water spreads out more. But still powerful for deck cleansing. If the stains are too rigid you may use them by keeping some distance between the surface and the pressure washer.
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25˚ degree nozzle or green nozzle
These green nozzles are the popular choice of households. As the pressure is spread out at wider angles but emits enough power pressure to remove dirt and stains. Hence makes it the best option for cleaning wooden decks and glass items. They are ideal for all vulnerable surfaces and efficiently clean the surfaces without damaging them.
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40˚ degree nozzle or white nozzle
They often come in white and gray colors, they are best suited for soft materials as they emit gentle spray. In terms of cleaning the deck, use it in sensitive soft areas where not much pressure is required.
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65˚ degree nozzle, soap nozzle, or black nozzle
This one is a versatile nozzle as it combines water with soap/ detergent. So you don’t have to spray detergent before pressure washing. It is the most commonly used nozzle as it comes as the default tip with the washer. This one is also safe for pressure washing decks.
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Turbo rotary nozzle
This is the nozzle that combines the functionality of 0-degree nozzles and a 25-degree nozzle tip. It sprays with the full pressure of 0-degree, rotates, and spread with a speed of 25-degree. Hence make it powerful among all. It rotates from 1800 RPM to 3000 RPM. It is not recommended for cleaning decks or other vulnerable surfaces.
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Adjustable nozzle
This is all in one nozzle; you can adjust the angle at your own will. As the name suggests it is an adjustable nozzle and comes with only specific pressure washers.
Best Nozzle for Deck Cleaning
It depends on the condition and stains of your deck. Ideally, 25˚ nozzles are powerful enough to remove stains from the deck without damage.
However, you should first try on small patches to check whether it is suitable or not. You may also use 15˚ for higher pressure, 40˚, or a soap nozzle for lighter pressure.
How to choose the best nozzle for the deck when you are not sure?
When you are not sure which nozzle to use. Use it in a small corner area and test them. Change nozzles until you get the right pressure for cleaning the deck.
What is the best Psi for Deck cleaning?
When it comes to pressure washing of the deck, a PSI of 500 to 800 would be sufficient. But if you’re looking to clean hard, rigid stains you can take it up to 1000 to 1500 PSI. It may vary according to the condition of the deck.
FAQS
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Is 2000 PSI good for a pressure washer for a deck?
Generally, 1500 PSI is easy enough to remove stains from the deck. When you’ll try to clean the deck with higher pressure. The chances of damage also increase. Use a washer ranging from 500 to 1500 PSI for best results.
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Can you use a pressure washer on deck?
Yes, you can use a pressure washer on wooden decks. But you must know the correct nozzle and pressure before cleaning the deck with a pressure washer. Ideally use a lower pressure setting to prevent any damage.
Conclusion
That’s all for what tip to use to pressure wash a deck. I hope this will gives you a clear idea of how to clean the deck with a pressure washer using the appropriate nozzle.
Your sweat and hard work of the day will pay off in an appealing new-like deck without damaging the deck or surrounding area.
Also Read: 5 Best Electric Pressure Washers For Deck Cleaning
