Wood Deck and Fence Washing in North Tonawanda, New York

Have you decided that it's the time to give your fence or deck a nice thorough wash to brighten the wood up or remove the nasty dirt and grime? Though it may seem like an easy task , but there are a ton of things that can go wrong. Not only do you need the proper equipment, but you need to know the chemicals that must be used, how much pressure must be applied, and have what we like to call, a little finesse to your technique.

Without having the proper knowledge, it is easy to damage your property which can add up to costly repairs. You might be able remove the mold and algae, but is it a deep clean to where the wood is vibrant? Maybe you're prepping to have your deck stained, and in this case a deep clean is the only option so that the surface and be penetrated with the stain and give it a nice beautiful color.

It is not recommended to stain a deck without first cleaning it. The stain only works as well as the surface it sticks too.

Fence Washing in North Tonawanda, New York

How to Wash Your Wooden Deck or Fence

It is very common for most people to think that the way to wash and clean your deck or fence is with a pressure washer, also called a power washer. While you can, but it is not always recommended. If you have a wooden fence or deck, the pressure our machines generate and strip and ruin the grains on the panels. It can etch the wood and leave ugly and nasty gashes that aren't pleasing.

If you are at the proper distance, you can still effectively clean your wooden fence or deck, but it will not be a deep clean. It also depends on the tip that is at the end of your wand. Generally there are 5 different tips that can be used in this industry, along with many different types of nozzles to tackle any job. So it is very important to know exactly what you are doing, and which amount of pressure musts be generated. Still, there is a better method. And this method not only words for wooden decks or fences, but vinyl as well. This method is called soft washing.

Soft washing is what is the ideal method to clean your decks or fences. It is low pressure, just enough to generate enough force to send water through. Still its a great amount of force, but its all about the gallons per minute (gpm).

Soft washing is focused on using solutions, such as SH, the industries leaving chemical. SH will penetrate the wood very deeps, killing all organic growth, leaving nothing but a almost bleached like wood. This is the closest you can get to having your wooden fence or deck look brand new with just this method.

Vinyl Fence Washing in North Tonawanda, New York

How to Wash a Vinyl Fence

Washing your vinyl fence follows the same procedure as what you would do with a wooden fence. Soft washing is king when it comes to cleaning your vinyl fence. Though, you can use a pressure washer for this since their is not grain in the wood.

Though, it is still possible to generate enough force and pressure you shoot a hole right through the vinyl panel. This is something that cannot be undone, and would require you either replace that panel, or learn to simply ignore the hole.

In most cases, it would be hard to ignore, that's all you would notice. Let's not forget the chance of stripping or etching your vinyl panels when using high pressure. If you're not sure how close to stand, what chemicals to use, what technique or method to implement, it is advised that you don't try until you figure out exactly what it needed to get the job done the right way.

Soft washing covers a wide variety of the fence when applying the application and using the proper nozzle or tip. Allowing proper dwelling for the chemicals to do their job is also very important and should not be neglected. It is a gentle method to use on delicate surfaces that will cut through dirt and build up without posing the risk of damage to the property.

Soft washing Steps:

• Rinse the surface you're wanting to clean thoroughly (If its a wooden fence or deck, be sure to not over soak it)

• Rinse the surround vegetation such as grass or plants or grass to dilute the area, which will prevent the chemicals used from negatively affecting it

• Apply the chemicals in a nice sweeping motion from bottom to top (Don't over saturate)

• Allow the chemicals proper time to sit and do its job, you should start seeing a change in the color within seconds or even minutes depending on how strong you mixed your chemicals
• If its a large area, start in sections and don't move on until one section is complete

• Thoroughly rinse the surface from top to bottom, and soak the surrounding areas to ensure the chemicals wont damage anything.
• As long as you properly dilute the surrounding areas, there will be no issue

Wood Deck and Fence Staining in North Tonawanda, New York

If you want to give your fence or deck a fresh look after a wash or want to re-stain your fence or deck, there are a few things to keep in mind. As seen above, the preparation is of vital importance. It is a big no-no to stain your wooden surfaces without cleaning them first. Once the wood is dried out, only then should you apply the stain to ensure it gets deep into the wooden grain and sticks. 

Rushing this process could lead to a mess or an unsatisfied finish. The stain is meant to protect your wood from nature's harsh elements. As one of the top companies in North Tonawanda, New York, we want to make sure we provide the information on how to tackle this project for the best results. 

If you’re going to have professionals do it, like us as Lovria’s Pressure Washing, we want to inform you how we will be completing this job for you.

Importance of Staining your Wooden Deck or Fence

What the stain will do is penetrate deep into your wood grain to seal off moisture that will eventually cause the wood to rot if left unattended. Some sections may be worse than others, especially depending on how much one area is affected by the sun or water.

If using a sprayer to apply the stain, you want to saturate your wooden surface to the point of rejection, where the wood wont take in anymore. If to light of a application is applied, the color will not be a rich and leaves the wood prone to damage. Once the application is on, follow back through with a natural bristle brush to help spread the excess stain and drive the stain deeper into the wood.

Note, we always suggest to read the back of the staining can. Their are a variety of stains and all of them should be applied the way the companies tell us.

Reapplication of the stain is not always required, but it’s suggested to be done every 1-3 years depending on its condition such as the examples previously mentioned, or simply the original color is starting to fade away. With this maintenance, we can help preserve the lifespan and stiffness of the wood.

Choosing The Right Stain

When it comes to choosing the stain to apply on your wooden surfaces, the two main bases that are commonly used are oil-based and water-based sealants. Oil-based is favored over the two because it penetrates the wood more, which provides more durability. Water-based doesn't pierce the wood as much and is prone to peeling if not applied properly. It also does not have the same chemicals in it that work with the wood to help prevent cracking, as the oil-based stain does.

Choosing a stain with a low VOC is a safer stain to be around for yourself, kids, pets and the environment.

Oil Based

Pros:

• If you have to do another application over the next couple years, oil-based stain can simply just be reapplied.
• Oil-based stain actually helps bring our more of the natural color in the wood as well

Cons:

• Stain is transparent, so if you have old wooden panels vs. new wooden panels, you will see the difference
• Is the wood moisture is about 15%, the wood will not stain well because the wood will reject it. Water and oil don't mix

Water based

Pros:

• Can use even when the wood is slightly wetter, compared to having to be very dry

Cons:

• Water based stain cannot just be reapplied. If you do, the previous stain have to be removed before a new application or it can cause the stain to start peeling.
• The wood is more likely to crack because it is a film sealing, it is film forming sealant

Fast & Convenient Scheduling

Getting an estimate or scheduling your deck or fence project is simple and hassle-free. You can either call our number, shoot us a text, or fill out a quick online request form on our website. All requests get sent directly to us, allowing us to see your request instantly. 

We aim to provide estimates within 24 hours and are usually able to complete residential jobs within 1-2 days of being booked. For larger projects, we work with clients to find dates that minimize disruptions since they may take some more time.

You'll appreciate our timely and flexible service, making sure to work around your schedule!

Affordable Rates with No Hidden Fees

At Lovria's Pressure Washing, we believe in providing quality service at fair and competitive rates. We will provide upfront pricing for any job after assessing the scope of work. 

Unlike some other companies, we never have any hidden charges like travel fees or fuel surcharges added later. The price we give is the price you pay, except for potentially running into some unforeseen issues. 

You'll appreciate our transparent pricing that leaves no room for unexpected costs. Whether it's a small home or a large commercial building, we aim to fit every budget.

Satisfaction Guaranteed!

We stand behind our work 100% and guarantee you will be completely satisfied with the results. If you are not happy with the end result, just let us know and we will redo the areas in question at no additional cost. 

We will consider the job fully complete once you are thrilled with how fresh, spotless, and gleaming your exterior surfaces look.

Your satisfaction is our top priority.

Contact Lovria's Pressure Washing Today! 

If you require professional staining or washing for either your deck or fence, pressure cleaning, or other exterior services in the North Tonawanda area, don't hesitate to contact Lovria's Pressure Washing. 

You can get in touch by contacting us through text, call, or using our quick online contact form. 

We will be happy to discuss your specific project needs and provide a free quote. We look forward to serving all your exterior cleaning requirements and helping your property look its very best!