Does pressure washing harm wood?
Used correctly, pressure washing is safe for virtually all wood surfaces. Doesn’t pressure washing wood affect the wood grain? Yes, when the correct pressure setting is used, washing will raise the wood grain slightly, which allows the wood fibers to release mold, mildew, fungus or dirt that may be embedded and will ensure that new stains and sealers adhere evenly to the wood surfaces. Can’t I get the same results as a pressure washer by applying bleach to my deck and rinsing using my garden hose? Although the immediate results may appear acceptable, common, household bleach will leave a residue on your deck that will act like a magnet for future staining. No matter how strong the water pressure from your garden hose, it is nowhere near the pressure provided by a professional pressure washing machine.
