Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - Pressure Washing
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Larry G.
04-14-01, 02:24 PM
We recently purchased a house with a deck (about 2 years now)and it looks like it is about time to clean it with a pressure washer, as I am starting to notice green stains. Here is my question...
Would it be worth while with all of the washers on the market to just buy one out-right ? This as opposed to renting or hiring somebody. What shoul I look for when making this decision ?
Also, if you have any basic tips regarding deck care I would appreciate it.
Thanks in advance,
Larry
Would it be worth while with all of the washers on the market to just buy one out-right ? This as opposed to renting or hiring somebody. What shoul I look for when making this decision ?
Also, if you have any basic tips regarding deck care I would appreciate it.
Thanks in advance,
Larry
04-16-01, 05:50 AM
Just my opinion, but I think it would be worth buying one, you're more likely to keep your deck / house in nicer shape that way. Personally, I wouldn't buy an electric one, as gas is so much easier and faster to use, although more expensive.
Larry G.
04-16-01, 05:59 AM
Thanks, Matt. Would you recommend a certain brand or size ?
Anything to stay away from ?
Anything to stay away from ?
04-16-01, 06:08 AM
Don't have that much experience with 'em. Used a couple 5 hp basics and they were fine. Also used a couple smaller electrics, and the job took 2-3 times as long. Spray was just as high pressure, but MUCH narrower width, so it took much longer to wash the same area.
04-20-01, 12:49 PM
Larry,
I just purchased a 5hp sprayer with Honda engine from Home Depot to clean my driveway. I thought it might be more than I needed, but spent the money anyway. Now I'm wondering why I didn't buy it 5 years ago. It really does have a lot of uses...car, driveway, walkways, garage door, decking etc. By the time you rent one you've paid 20% of the price anyway. I'm not an expert, but I'd suggest you purchase the biggest hp you can afford. The previous poster was right, it's not PSI, it's spray wand coverage at a high PSI that you want. Don't waste your money on an electric. Gas is the only way to go. Good luck!
I just purchased a 5hp sprayer with Honda engine from Home Depot to clean my driveway. I thought it might be more than I needed, but spent the money anyway. Now I'm wondering why I didn't buy it 5 years ago. It really does have a lot of uses...car, driveway, walkways, garage door, decking etc. By the time you rent one you've paid 20% of the price anyway. I'm not an expert, but I'd suggest you purchase the biggest hp you can afford. The previous poster was right, it's not PSI, it's spray wand coverage at a high PSI that you want. Don't waste your money on an electric. Gas is the only way to go. Good luck!
Larry G.
04-21-01, 10:04 AM
Hey guys, thanx for the input. I recently went out and picked up a Generac washer for $300.00 that features a 6 hp Briggs and Stratton engine (can't go wrong with B&S !). I'm gonna fire it up today and blast the deck off with it. I've never heard of the brand, but it is US built and looks solid.