In an effort to become familiar with my machine I washed my house after work today. Do any of you remember the very first time you sprayed SH and could see it working? 
. I have been watching tons of videos and reading post after post. Lately I was beginning to wonder if I had made a mistake spending money for equipment and to start a small business. I had the biggest smile when I saw the dirt loosening up. Felt even more amazing when a neighbor stopped to ask if I had any business cards. I just so happened to have one in my back pocket. Guys I am starting to believe I can do this. The best part is the work wasn’t hard. I just have to develop a systematic way of doing things. My surface cleaner did a fantastic job on my patio. I’m just trying to do my house and family before I take on the paid work. I do have one question. When I do a house with a deck can I use the SH to spray the deck or will it negatively impact the wood. Before someone tell me to look it up I am doing that now. It was so freaking awesome to see the dirt loosen up and melt away. House looks amazing!
You should pre wet the deck. It usually won’t make a difference when downstreaming unless it’s super dirty. In my experience the low percentage of SH in downstream operations does not affect decks. But I also pre wet if it appears unsealed or dirty.
If it’s that dirty you should be up-selling a deck wash.
Thanks for information. You answered my question. I’m going to get a pump up sprayer. I ordered a sample pack of chems from Pressure tek and I have a chem for wood. My plan would be to spray deck with chem and the rinse with gun. Am I on the right track?
Yes, just make sure you tip your pressure washer so you are around 400-500 psi max! And don’t get close. Let the chemicals do the work. I learned here early on (by getting shunned in a video I posted) that pressure is not for wood. Pressure will fur the wood.
@Racer has a plethora of deck knowledge and I think some nice video tutorials.
Perfect. Thanks for the feedback. I understand the soft pressure concept. I’m using a j rod and so far I’m only using two tips. A wide spray for down low and a longer spray to reach the higher areas. I will be sure to lay off the pressure on the wood surface. I will look for those video tutorials. I’m learning a great deal.
The knowledge of this forum could never have a price tag! It’s the best pressure washing tool you have.
William says potash and rinse. Haven’t tried that yet but will give it a test when i have time.
Standard pressure treated decking is usually ok with house wash (downstreaming) as long as you wet it.
Now if its a cedar deck, yes your house wash will 100% affect it big time. You will instantaneously notice it.
First thing I cleaned was a white vinyl church sign. Sprayed the mix on it and stood there amazed as the mold melted away. I wish they were all that easy. It wasn’t even a paying job but I enjoyed the process and results.
Me either but it’s on my bucket list
