The Best Pressure Washing, Deck Cleaning in Arlington, VA

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Deck Cleaning & Restoration

How often should my deck be professionally cleaned and stained? For most pressure-treated wood decks in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia climate, we recommend a maintenance treatment every two years. Horizontal surfaces like floorboards and handrails take the brunt of UV rays and foot traffic, while vertical surfaces (spindles and posts) can often go longer. Regular maintenance prevents warping, rotting, and expensive structural repairs.

 

Low-Pressure Washing & Safety

Is power washing safe for my deck? High-pressure "power washing" can easily gouge wood, leave permanent "wand marks," and destroy the wood's integrity. At Deck Care Pro, we specialize in Low-Pressure Washing (often called Soft Washing). We use specialized cleaning agents to do the heavy lifting, allowing us to use a gentle water stream that cleans effectively while keeping your wood—and your home’s siding—completely safe.

 

Are your cleaning products safe for my family and landscaping? Absolutely. Safety is our focus. We use eco-friendly, professional-grade cleaners that effectively kill mold and mildew without harming your grass, plants, or pets. We also thoroughly rinse the work area upon completion to ensure your outdoor space is ready for use.

 

Ipe & Hardwood Specialization

What makes you an Ipe and exotic hardwood specialist? Exotic hardwoods like Ipe, Cumaru, and Mahogany are incredibly dense and require a completely different approach than standard pressure-treated pine. Because these woods are so dense, standard stains will simply sit on the surface and peel. We understand the unique cellular structure of hardwoods and use specialized, high-solids oil finishes (like Penofin or Ipe Oil) designed to penetrate deep into the wood.

My Ipe deck has turned gray. Can it be restored to its original color? Yes! While Ipe naturally weathers to a silver-gray patina, our restoration process can bring back that rich, "chocolatey" reddish-brown color. We use a professional-grade wood brightener and specialized hardwood oils to revive the natural oils of the wood, protecting it from UV damage and restoring its showroom-quality appearance.

 

Staining & Logistics

What brands of stain do you use? We believe in using only the finest products that are proven to last in our local climate. Our premium lineup includes TWP (Total Wood Preservative), Ready Seal, and Penofin. For basic waterproofing, we also offer Olympic WaterGuard.

 

How long does the process take? Most deck restorations are a 2-day process. Day one is dedicated to the deep cleaning and brightening of the wood. After the wood has had at least 24–48 hours to dry completely (weather permitting), we return to apply the stain.

 

How do I know if it’s time to restain my deck? Try the "Water Test": Pour a small amount of water onto your deck boards. If the water beads up, your protection is still intact. If the water soaks into the wood within a minute, the wood is "thirsty" and vulnerable to rot and UV damage—it’s time to give us a call!