Deck and fence cleaning in Reno and Tahoe

Wood needs a gentler hand than concrete

Decks and fences are the easiest surfaces to ruin with a pressure washer. Too much pressure raises the grain, carves lines into soft wood and leaves fuzz that has to be sanded off. We clean wood with low pressure and a wood appropriate detergent that breaks down the grey layer, mildew and algae without tearing at the fibers.

Composite decking gets a similar approach. It does not rot, but it does hold a film of dust, pollen and organic growth, particularly in shaded corners and under furniture, and that film is what makes older composite look tired.

Photo coming soon

What we clean

• Wood decks, stairs, railings and pergolas
• Composite and PVC decking
• Wood, vinyl and composite fencing
• Gazebos, arbors and outdoor structures
• Patio covers and shade structures

If you plan to stain or seal, cleaning is the first step. We can clean and let the wood dry to the point where it is ready for a coating. Applying the stain itself is a separate trade. TODO: confirm whether the Reno franchise offers staining or sealing, or refers it out.

Timing around our seasons

Late spring and early summer are the best windows here. The wood has dried out from winter, overnight temperatures are reliable, and there is enough warm weather ahead to let a freshly cleaned deck dry evenly before any coating goes on.

At Tahoe elevations the season is shorter and the cleaning list is longer: pine sap, needle staining, and growth on the shaded side of a cabin all build up while the deck is under snow. We schedule Tahoe work once the snow is off and the access road is clear.

Questions we hear a lot

Can you make a grey deck look new again?

Cleaning removes the grey, weathered surface layer and the organic growth in it. The wood underneath comes back noticeably lighter, though deeply damaged boards will still show their age.

How soon can I stain after cleaning?

Wood generally needs a couple of dry days after cleaning before it takes a coating. Your stain manufacturer's moisture guidance is the one to follow.

Do you clean composite decks?

Yes. Composite is cleaned at low pressure with a detergent that lifts the film without dulling the surface.

Will the cleaning harm plants next to the fence?

We rinse plantings before and after and use biodegradable detergents, which is standard on every job.

Where we work