Pressure Washing and Soft Washing Blog Posts
BLOG POST:
Why Bleach Should Never Be Used on Your Wooden Deck
Understanding the Right Way to Clean and Protect Wood Surfaces
Many pressure washing companies throughout Dayton, Ohio and beyond routinely use sodium hypochlorite, or household bleach, to clean wooden decks. While it may seem like an easy solution to kill mold and mildew, this practice can actually damage the wood fibers, strip protective coatings, and harm surrounding vegetation.
At Rush’s Power Clean, we take a safer and more effective approach by using sodium percarbonate for deck cleaning. Sodium percarbonate is a biodegradable, oxygen-based cleaner that:
* Lifts organic stains without harsh chemicals
* Gently cleans deep into wood grain without deterioration
* Is safe for pets, plants, and outdoor environments
We optimize sodium percarbonate cleaning by pairing it with proper dwell time, light agitation, and a low-pressure rinse. This ensures your deck is restored, not ruined, and prepared for sealing or staining if needed.
Avoid bleach damage. Trust the pros at Rush’s Power Clean to care for your wood the right way.
📞 Call or text Kris at 937-361-7995 for a free deck inspection and estimate.
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Why You Shouldn’t Pressure Wash Your Own Deck or Wooden Fence
The Risks of DIY Pressure Washing and How to Safely Clean Wood Surfaces in Dayton, Ohio
Thinking about renting a pressure washer to clean your deck or wooden fence? While it might seem like a cost-effective DIY project, many homeowners in Dayton, OH quickly learn that improper pressure washing can cause permanent damage.
The truth is: deck cleaning and fence washing require professional knowledge, specialized equipment, and the correct cleaning agents to be done safely and effectively.
Here's why you should avoid pressure washing wood yourself:
1. Too Much Pressure Damages Wood Fibers
Most consumer-grade pressure washers deliver high PSI, which can splinter, gouge, or strip away the surface of your deck or fence.
2. Incorrect Chemicals Like Bleach Are Harmful
Many DIYers and even some companies use sodium hypochlorite, also known as bleach, to clean wood. This method:
* Breaks down lignin, the natural glue holding wood fibers together
* Causes premature aging and cracking
* Kills surrounding plants and grass
3. The Right Way: Sodium Percarbonate Cleaning
At Rush’s Power Clean, we use sodium percarbonate, a safe, oxygen-based cleaner that effectively removes:
* Algae, mildew, and mold
* Organic stains and weathered graying
* Dirt and grime from deep wood pores
Sodium percarbonate requires careful handling and dilution. Used improperly, it can irritate skin and eyes. That’s why it’s critical to trust a professional who understands:
* Application methods
* Dwell time
* Safe agitation and low-pressure rinsing
Professional Wood Cleaning in Dayton, OH
We serve Dayton and surrounding suburbs with expert deck and fence cleaning services. Whether you have cedar, pressure-treated pine, or composite materials, we tailor our approach to match the needs of each surface.
📞 Don’t take chances with your home investment. Call or text Kris at 937-361-7995 for safe, reliable wood cleaning that protects and restores.
