Key information:
- Pressure cleaning can restore most types of decking, including stone, timber and composite surfaces. The right pressure and technique depend on the material.
- Hard surfaces like stone, concrete and pavers handle pressure cleaning well, while timber and composite decks require a gentler approach to avoid damage.
- Professional pressure cleaning helps achieve a deeper, safer clean, removing mould, stains and grime without harming the surface.
Most decks can be pressure cleaned (including stone surfaces, timber and composite decking); however, the pressure, technique, and products must be right for the material – stone, wood and composite options need different approaches.
Using too much pressure or the wrong nozzle can damage decking boards, strip protective finishes, or leave visible streaks. That’s why professional pressure cleaning is often the safest option for restoring outdoor entertaining areas.
Why decks need cleaning in the first place
Outdoor decks are constantly exposed to the elements, which makes them prone to build up over time. Dirt, dust and salt from Perth’s coastal and inland breezes can easily drift in or be carried via foot traffic, as well as:
- Mould, mildew or algae (particularly in damp or shaded areas)
- Leaf stains and marks from organic debris, or stains where potted plants have sat on the wood
- Spills from food and drink
- Grease or oil from barbecues
Beyond looking unsightly, these can make your outdoor area slippery and unsafe – especially after rain.
Pressure cleaning deck areas made of stone, concrete or pavers
Outdoor stone surfaces are 100% okay to pressure clean, and you’ll get the best results when you book in a professional (like Mr Blastit) to get it done. Stone, concrete or paved surfaces are all a lot harder than wood and composite materials, making them much better suited to pressure cleaning.
For stone surfaces, a high-pressure clean is going to give you an unbeatable finish. This is hard to achieve with consumer-level water blasters or pressure washes, which often don’t have the grunt or capacity to get the job done right.
Professional cleaning, by comparison, uses specialised equipment. For example, Mr Blastit uses a high-pressure cleaner that can utilise hot water for a better clean, and a vacuum recovery system to ensure dirty water isn’t going back on your freshly cleaned stone (or anywhere else nearby, like into the pool).
Pressure cleaning for natural stone
Patio, poolside, or pavers around the property – natural stone looks its best when its clean. Sealing with a water-based sealer can enhance the beauty of the stone as well as protecting it from future contaminants.
Pressure cleaning for concrete and driveways
Man-made stone like concrete, exposed aggregate, and clay pavers can also benefit from regularly scheduled maintenance like cleaning and sealing. On driveways, seeking professional help can be the fastest and easiest way to get rid of things like hot tyre marks or oil stains.
In some cases, heavily stained or worn concrete may also benefit from resurfacing, which can restore appearance and improve safety.
Can you pressure clean a timber deck?
Yes. Timber decks can be pressure cleaned, but they require a gentler approach – timber is a relatively soft material and can’t handle high pressure cleaning like stone or concrete can. Too much pressure can lead to:
- Splintering wood fibres
- Permanent streaks in the surface
- Stripping protective oils or coatings
- Forcing water deep into the timber
Typical advice is to use lower pressure settings, wider spray patterns, and specialised cleaning solutions to remove the build up without damaging the wood beneath.
Can you pressure clean composite decking?
Yes, you can pressure clean capped composite decking if you’re careful – uncapped or partially capped decking is usually more delicate, so best to check with the manufacturer first. Depending on the brand and composition of the capped composite, you may need to take extra care to avoid causing any unintentional damage or marks.
As a rule of thumb, cleaning capped composite requires operators to:
- Use lower PSI settings
- Keep the spray at a safe distance
- Clean evenly across the boards
- Use the correct cleaning solutions to remove and treat mould and stains
Why DIY pressure cleaning can go wrong
While pressure cleaners are relatively easy to hire, they’re often more powerful and less user-friendly than homeowners expect.
Common mistakes from well-meaning DIYers include:
- Using too much pressure
- Holding the nozzle too close to the surface
- Using the wrong spray tip
- Cleaning unevenly across the area (missing or repeating sections)
- Using the wrong solutions for stain removal
No matter what your deck is made of, calling in the professionals can save you time and heartache in the end. It’s not just a matter of “can you do it” – but “can you do it well?”
Related: DIY vs Professional Paver Sealing
Why professional cleaning makes a difference
Professional pressure cleaners have the right gear and experience to safely, efficiently clean your outdoor surfaces. They can assess factors unique to each job like:
- Surface material and condition
- Level of dirt and grime
- Appropriate pressure levels
- Suitable cleaning solutions for specific stains
Knowing what to do and having the experience required to do it properly is a boon in these situations. Professionals will remove stubborn grime, while protecting the surface underneath. It’s a quicker and less stressful process than doing it yourself as well, especially if you don’t already have the equipment and cleaning solutions, sealer etc. on hand.
5 signs your deck needs professional pressure cleaning
Regular cleaning helps extend the life of your decking material, keeping outdoor areas looking their best – and making sure they’re safe for you and your family to use. If you spy one or more of the following, consider booking professional pressure cleaning:
- Visible mould, algae or other organic growth.
- Slippery surfaces after rain or in shady areas.
- Dark stains or discolouration.
- Dirty buildup that isn’t shifted by your regular maintenance cleaning.
- The area is looking tired, faded or otherwise in need of a refresh.
Experience the Mr Blastit difference
Mr Blastit is a family-owned, fully insured business servicing Perth Metro. areas, Pinjarra and Mandurah. We take the utmost care with your outdoor stone surfaces, treating your home as carefully as if it were our own.
With Mr Blastit’s adjustable 4000+ PSI high pressure cleaning and environmentally friendly sealing services, your stone, pavers and concrete decking surfaces can be easily taken care of.
Why not contact Mr Blastit to get started, or request your free estimate today.
