Thinking about refreshing your deck or fence with a new coat of stain or paint? That’s a great idea, but there’s a crucial step you can’t skip: pressure washing.
Over time, your wooden surfaces collect dirt, algae, mildew, and old peeling finishes. If you apply stain or paint directly over that mess, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment – the new coating won’t stick properly, and you’ll be redoing it again sooner than you’d like.
That’s why professional pressure washing is the best way to prep your wood surfaces. It gives your stain or paint the clean, smooth foundation it needs to actually bond with the wood and last for years.
Why Clean Wood is Non-Negotiable Before Staining or Painting
Let’s break it down: when you apply stain or paint, it needs to penetrate or stick to the wood surface. If that surface is covered in:
- Old, flaking paint or stain
- Mold, mildew, or algae
- Dirt, pollen, and surface grime
- Water stains or discoloration
…then your new finish won’t absorb evenly or adhere properly. The result?
- Blotchy, uneven coloring
- Peeling and bubbling
- Stain that washes away in months instead of years
Pressure washing solves all of this. It strips away the buildup and reveals a clean, porous surface that’s ready to soak up stain or grab onto paint like it’s supposed to.
What Pressure Washing Removes from Your Deck & Fence
- When done by professionals, pressure washing removes:
- Dirt and grime that dulls your wood’s natural beauty
- Algae and mildew that cause discoloration and wood decay
- Old finishes like peeling paint or faded stain
- Grease, pollen, and contaminants that can interfere with adhesion
It’s not just about looks – it’s about giving your deck or fence the clean slate it needs to absorb stain deeply and evenly, or hold paint tightly.
Why You Shouldn’t Do it Yourself
DIY pressure washers are available for rent, but there’s a big difference between blasting water at wood and cleaning it the right way.
- Too much pressure can:
- Gouge the wood
- Cause splintering
- Leave streaks or damage soft spots
A professional knows how to: - Adjust pressure based on wood type (softwood vs. hardwood)
- Use proper nozzles and angles
- Apply detergents that kill mold at the root
- Prep the surface evenly without damage
So your deck and fence come out clean, undamaged, and perfectly prepped.
Perfect Timing: When to Pressure Wash Before Staining
We recommend pressure washing 2–3 days before staining or painting. This gives the wood time to:
- Dry out completely
- Settle after cleaning
- Be ready to accept stain or paint without moisture issues
Trying to stain a damp deck? You risk trapping moisture, leading to peeling and wood rot. A short wait now saves you big headaches later.
Make Your Next Stain or Paint Job Last Years – Not Months
A good stain job can last up to 3–5 years on a deck, and even longer on a fence – but only if the prep is done right. Skipping the cleaning stage or doing it poorly means your beautiful finish starts failing way too soon.
A quick, affordable pressure washing service is the difference between a job that lasts and one you have to redo next season.
Let Us Prep Your Deck or Fence the Right Way
Before you stain or paint your deck or fence, let us handle the critical prep work with professional pressure washing and contact us to get your free quote.
