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Gray weathered backyard deck half rinsed clean beside a wood fence

Deck and fence cleaning

Deck pressure washing in New York City, done gently

Wood is softer than concrete. We use the right pressure and cleaner so decks and fences look clean without furry, scarred boards.

  • Backyard decks, rooftop terraces and wood fences
  • Mildew and gray weathering removed
  • Wood left ready for staining when you choose

Step 1 of 3

What needs cleaning?

What does deck pressure washing involve in New York City?

Deck pressure washing in New York City starts with the wood. Backyard decks in Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Staten Island are often pressure-treated pine or cedar. Rooftop terraces may use hardwood decking, composite boards or pavers on pedestals. Each needs a different touch.

We sweep the deck, wet it and apply a cleaner that breaks down mildew and gray surface fibers. A light scrub follows on stubborn areas. Then we rinse with a wide spray, working along the grain, with the pressure kept low enough that the boards are not scarred. Railings, steps, spindles and the underside edges are cleaned by hand. Fences get the same treatment, board by board.

What problems do city decks and fences have?

Decks and fences in a dense city have their own troubles.

  • Constant shade. Tall buildings and fences keep wood damp, so green mildew and black spots return quickly.
  • Gray weathering. Sun and rain turn unprotected wood silver-gray and rough.
  • Tannin and rust stains. Cedar can bleed dark streaks, and nails or screws can leave rust trails.
  • Slippery boards. Algae on stairs and landings is a real fall risk after rain.
  • Worn finish. Old stain or sealer peels in patches and leaves an uneven look.

Loose boards, popped nails and rot are repair jobs, not cleaning jobs. We point them out when we see them.

Should wood be pressure washed or soft washed?

Usually a bit of both, with the force kept low. High pressure on wood can raise the fibers and leave a fuzzy surface. It can also cut lines into softer boards where the nozzle lingered.

Wood decks and fences

We use a mild cleaner, a gentle scrub and a controlled rinse. Cedar and other soft woods get the lightest touch.

Composite decking

Composite resists rot, but it still grows mildew in shade. A cleaner and a soft rinse work best, and heavy pressure can scar the surface.

Rooftop and terrace decks

Water must drain the way the terrace is built to drain. We keep the rinse light near roof drains and edges, and we avoid flooding the surface below.

The price depends on deck or fence size, the number of stairs and rails, how heavy the mildew or old finish is, and how the crew gets to the work. A backyard reached through a house or a narrow passage takes more effort than an open yard. On a rooftop, equipment may need to go up by stairs or in a freight elevator, and the building may have rules for that.

In a co-op or condo, shared terraces and roofs usually need approval from the managing agent. Shared fences between neighbors are best discussed with them first. Staining and sealing are not part of a cleaning visit, so ask a deck or paint contractor about timing if you plan to refinish. A quote from us lists what is included.

How long does it take and when should I call?

A typical backyard deck is often cleaned within part of a day. Larger decks, long fences and terraces with many stairs take longer. After cleaning, wood needs time to dry before it is stained, which can take a day or more depending on the weather. Spring and fall are good seasons. We avoid washing in near-freezing temperatures.

Call when the wood has turned gray or green, when the boards are slippery, or before the season you use the space most. If your fence meets a house wall, it may make sense to book house washing at the same time. A paved patio or walkway can be added with concrete cleaning, and the home page lists all our services.

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

Step 1 of 3

What needs cleaning?

Questions about pressure washing in New York City

Can pressure washing damage a wood deck?

Yes, if the pressure is too high or the nozzle is too close. It can raise the wood fibers, leave lines in the boards and push water into the grain. We use low pressure, a wide fan spray and a cleaner that does most of the work. Softer woods like cedar are treated with extra care, and we test a small area first.

Do you stain or seal decks after cleaning?

A cleaning visit leaves the wood clean and ready, but staining and sealing are separate work. If you plan to refinish, ask a deck or paint contractor about timing. Wood must be fully dry before stain is applied, and the right product depends on the type of wood and how much sun it gets. Tell us your plans when requesting a quote.

Can you clean a rooftop terrace deck?

Often yes, but there are extra steps. We need to know how to reach the terrace, whether stairs or a freight elevator can be used, and where water may drain. Most buildings require approval from the managing agent or board, and some set hours for contractors. The deck material also matters, because wood, hardwood and composite are cleaned differently.

What about composite decking?

Composite still collects mildew, pollen and grime, especially in shade. It is usually cleaned with a mild solution and a soft rinse, since high pressure can scar the surface. Some makers give cleaning advice for their boards, and it is worth checking. Tell us the brand if you know it, and we will plan around it.

How often should a deck or fence be cleaned?

Shaded decks and fences that stay damp may need cleaning every year, because mildew returns quickly. Sunny, well-ventilated decks often last longer between visits. A good time to clean is when you notice green or gray patches, or before you refinish. Waiting too long makes the work harder and can leave stains that do not fully fade.

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.

Ready when you are

Call now or request a quote online.

(212) 555-0154
Get my free washing quote