The way to Use A Power Washer on Wood

A power washer may efficiently wash dirt and even strip paint off of wood shingles, decking and exterior furniture, but using one can be risky. Based on how much pressure you use and also the width of the spray pattern, you can seriously gouge and splinter the wood you’re brushing. The best power washers for cleaning timber aren’t the heavy duty industrial ones which pump out 5,000 psi of pressure. Instead, opt for a mid sized gas or electric machine having a maximum output of about 2,500 psi. It takes more time to clean at reduced pressure, but the effects are worth the additional time.

Treat heavy mould and mildew using a detergent which includes bleach before you power wash. Some machines have a reservoir which you may fill with soap. They automatically mix the detergent with water once you spray in a low pressure. If your machine does not have this feature, spread the detergent using a mop or sponge and scrub using a scrub brush, as needed.

Choose the proper color-coded suggestion for your own machine. Green and yellow hints are usually best for cleaning timber. Avoid using a reddish tip as it has a zero-degree spray pattern that is proper for cleaning concrete, but never timber.

Hook up the machine you are using to your water supply before you turn it on. Most machines have a 3/4-inch hose connection for connecting to an outdoor hose bib my way of a garden hose. A high-pressure hose connects the machine to the spray gun.

Begin the power washer and spray a test area to get a sense of recoil of the spray and the cutting power of the water stream. Locate the optimal distance between the tip and the timber — generally 4 to 6 inches.

Hold the tip in a uniform distance in the timber while you’re washing and move it over the grain. If you spray cross-grain, you’re likely going to create noticeable streaks. Keep the tip going while you’re washing. Lingering allows the water to erode the timber, and it may make a gouge.

Switch off the machine once you’re finished with the job and keep the gun trigger depressed to release pressure in the hole. Otherwise, you will not have the ability to unscrew the hose or the gun.

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