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Cedar fence section half gray with mildew and half cleaned to warm tan

Deck and fence cleaning in Austin

Deck pressure washing in Austin and fence cleaning

Gray, green or grimy wood can be cleaned without scarring it, when the pressure is right. Call (512) 555-0138 to talk about your deck or fence.

  • Cedar, pine and composite surfaces
  • Pressure set to the condition of the wood
  • Written quote before work starts

What does deck and fence washing in Austin involve?

Deck pressure washing in Austin is careful cleaning of wood and composite with a cleaning solution, moderate pressure and a wide spray pattern. The crew works with the grain, keeps the nozzle at a safe distance, and rinses the board clean. The aim is to remove dirt, mildew and loose weathered fibers without damaging the wood underneath.

Wood is far softer than concrete. Too much pressure leaves furry, raised grain, deep wand marks and splinters. Too little leaves the mildew in place. Getting the balance right depends on the species, the age and what is on the surface.

Cedar picket fences are everywhere in Austin, and pine fences and decks are common too. We also clean pergolas, railings, porches, steps and composite decking. For the siding and slab nearby, see house washing and driveway pressure washing.

Why do Austin fences and decks turn gray or green?

Several things work on outdoor wood here at once:

  • Sun and heat. Strong Texas sunlight breaks down the surface fibers of wood and fades stain and color. Cedar naturally weathers to silver-gray, which is normal.
  • Mildew and algae. Shaded fences, fence bottoms and decks under trees stay damp and turn green or black.
  • Sprinkler water. Irrigation soaks the lower pickets, leaves mineral spots and keeps the wood wet.
  • Tannin bleed. Cedar can leave dark streaks when it gets wet.
  • Dirt and pollen. Limestone dust, oak pollen and leaves settle on the wood and stick to it.

Cleaning removes mildew, dirt and loose gray fibers, and it can brighten the wood a lot. It will not make old, sun-worn wood look brand new, and we will tell you what to expect.

Will pressure washing damage my wood?

It can if it is done carelessly, and that is why the method matters. A wide fan tip, a safe distance and steady passes along the grain protect the surface. A small test area is a good idea on older or softer wood.

Some wood is simply too far gone. Rotted boards, loose pickets and splintering rails can break under pressure, so tell us about weak spots before the visit. Nails and screws that have worked loose should be fixed before or after cleaning.

If the fence or deck has an old stain or sealer, the cleaning may lift some of it, and that can leave a patchy look. We will say so up front. Composite decking needs a gentler approach again, and we adjust for the brand and condition. If you plan to stain or seal later, cleaning is the first step. The wood then needs to dry fully, often a day or two and longer in damp weather, so ask your stain maker for their guidance.

We quote in writing, and the price depends on the job. The main factors:

  • Size. Linear feet and height for fences, square footage and levels for decks.
  • Sides. One side of a fence or both sides, and any posts and caps.
  • Condition. Light mildew is quick. Heavy growth, old stain or damaged boards take more time.
  • Access. Gates, vines, shrubs, tight side yards and raised decks slow the work.
  • Add-ons. Railings, stairs, pergolas and furniture areas add scope.

A deck usually takes a few hours, and a long fence can take half a day or more. On the day, move furniture and planters off the deck, clear a path along the fence line, and tell us about pets. Plants near the work are rinsed before and after.

When should I call, and what about HOAs and neighbors?

Call when wood looks gray, green or blotchy, when a deck has turned slippery, or when you want to refresh the yard before a party or a sale. Many people clean in spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the wood dries well. Summer afternoons can dry cleaner too fast, so early hours work better.

Fences often face a neighbor, so a quick word before the visit saves surprises. Many HOAs also have rules on fence stain color and upkeep, so check your guidelines before changing the look. Austin Water can restrict outdoor water use in drought stages, so check the current city rules and tell us what applies to your street. See the main page for our other services.

Free written quotes
Local crews
Safe soft-wash methods
Fast scheduling

How it works

  1. Send photos or request a visit

    Tell us what needs cleaning.

  2. Get a written quote

    Clear price before any work starts.

  3. We clean and tidy up

    Rinse, check and leave the site clean.

Request deck and fence cleaning

Tell us what you need and we call you back.

No obligation.

Step 1 of 3

What needs cleaning?

Questions about pressure washing in Austin

Can you pressure wash a cedar fence without damaging it?

Yes, when the pressure and tip are chosen for the wood. Cedar is soft, so a wide fan tip, moderate pressure and a steady distance along the grain are used. Old, thin or rotted pickets can still splinter, so tell us about weak boards before the visit and we will take extra care.

Why did my fence turn gray, and will cleaning fix it?

Sun and weather break down the surface fibers of wood, and cedar silvers naturally. Cleaning removes mildew, dirt and loose gray fibers, which often brightens it a lot. It will not fully restore old, sun-worn wood to a fresh look, and a stain or sealer may be needed afterward if you want a deeper color.

How long should wood dry before I stain it?

It depends on the weather and the wood. Dry heat can have wood ready in a day or two, while damp or shaded boards take longer. The stain or sealer maker will have its own guidance, so follow it. Staining wood that is still damp can trap moisture and cause peeling or blotches.

Can you clean composite decking?

In many cases, yes, but composite needs a different approach from wood. Too much pressure can scar the surface, and some brands have their own cleaning instructions. Tell us the brand if you know it and describe any mold or stains. We will explain how we would clean it before we quote.

Do I need to be home during the job?

Not necessarily. We need access to an outdoor water spigot and to the deck or fence line, so gates should be unlocked or a plan agreed. Move furniture and planters first and let us know about pets. If a fence is shared, it is polite to tell your neighbor first.

Ready when you are. Call now or request a quote online.

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