Deck and Fence Cleaning: Soft Washing vs Pressure Washing

For deck and fence cleaning, soft washing is the safer choice for wood and composite. A low-pressure cleaning solution breaks down algae, mold and mildew, and a gentle rinse carries it away without tearing wood fibers or scratching composite boards.

Why do decks and fences get so dirty in Northeast Ohio?

A season of humidity, rain, pollen and falling leaves takes a toll on outdoor wood. By the time most Rocky River and Westlake homeowners look closely, the deck and fence are covered in algae, mold and mildew.

When it is time to clean them, the method you choose matters as much as the cleaning itself.

Shaded corners, areas under trees and boards near the ground usually get the worst growth, because they stay damp the longest. Green or black patches there are a sign the wood is overdue. Slick, slippery boards after rain are another sign, and a good reason not to wait.

Can pressure washing damage a wood deck?

Yes. High pressure works well on concrete and brick, but on wood it can tear the fibers, leave grooves and cause splintering.

It also drives water deep into the boards, where it can lead to rot and more mold later. Fences take the same punishment, and thin pickets can splinter even faster than deck boards. We have seen decks that looked clean after a heavy pressure wash but ended up with a shorter life because of it.

How does soft washing clean a deck or fence?

Soft washing puts the cleaning solution to work in place of pressure. The solution is applied at low pressure and breaks down algae, mold and mildew on the surface.

Then a gentle rinse washes everything away and leaves the wood intact. On every deck and fence job, our crews:

• Soak nearby landscaping before applying any solution
• Apply the cleaning solution at low pressure
• Let it break down the organic growth
• Rinse the surface and the plants around it

How should you clean a composite deck?

Composite decking needs extra care, because the wrong method can scratch or discolor the boards.

Soft washing is the safest approach for composite since it cleans without any abrasive contact.

Composite still grows algae and mildew on its surface, especially in shade, so it needs cleaning just like wood does. The low-pressure solution lifts that growth and the rinse leaves the boards looking even again.

Who cleans decks and fences on Cleveland's west side?

Purified Wash cleans decks and fences throughout Rocky River, Westlake, Bay Village, Avon Lake, North Olmsted, Fairview Park, Lakewood and nearby towns. We use soft washing so wood and composite come out clean and undamaged.

If your siding, windows or driveway are due too, bundling them on the same visit saves you money. There is no deposit, and you pay after the job.

Spring is a good time to clean a deck before you start using it, and fall is a good time to clear leaves and growth before winter. Clearing leaf piles off the boards between cleanings also keeps damp spots from turning green.

Book a free in-person quote online or text (440) 865-8993, and we will look at the property, give you an exact price, and often do the work on the same visit.

Next steps

• Pressure Washing