Can you clean a pergola with a pressure washer? Pressure washing is an efficient method of cleaning, especially compared to manual scrubbing, which is why it is favored by many property owners. When done incorrectly, though, pressure washing can result in irreversible damage. As such, it is important to know proper pressure washing techniques.
Can You Use a Pressure Washer to Clean a Pergola?
Pergolas can elevate the appearance of any outdoor area, making it feel fresh and whimsical. As with most structures, though, pergolas also require their fair share of maintenance. Over time, pergolas can start to look old and worn. This mainly happens due to exposure to natural elements such as sunlight, dirt, and plants. And your once-pristine pergola can turn into a filthy, algae-ridden archway.
One method of pergola cleaning is to do it the old-fashioned way — with a bucket and a scrub. However, due to their height and composition, pergolas are notoriously difficult to clean. They’re hard to reach, and it’s not always possible to get into the nooks and crannies.
This is where pressure washing comes in.
Pressure washing is an efficient and effective way to clean pergolas. Thanks to the force of high-pressure water, you can simply blast away the contaminants stuck to the structure. When used in tandem with detergents, you can achieve better results and even restore your pergola to its near-original appearance.
Can You Clean a Pergola With a Power Washer?
In general, you can use a power washer to clean your pergola. Power washing is similar to pressure washing, exception of water temperature. A power washer uses heated water to clean surfaces, whereas pressure washers don’t.
Power washing a pergola is possible and can be very effective against stubborn oil or grease stains. However, it is important to note that power washers are not always compatible with all types of pergolas. If you have a wooden pergola, it is best not to use hot water to clean it. This is because hot water may bend the wood as it can soften its fibers.
Pergola Cleaning: Why Do Pergolas Get Dirty?
Pergolas typically stand outdoors, which means they are exposed to all sorts of elements. The sun’s harsh rays, high temperatures, strong chemicals, and abrasion are all contributors to pergola deterioration.
If you have a vinyl pergola, green mildew is almost a guarantee. Mildew will not only cause premature wear and tear but also make your pergola look old and drab. If you live near a highway or a busy street, smoke from cars and dirt from the road can also make your pergola dirty.
How to Clean a Wood Pergola
Wooden pergolas can give your home a more natural or rustic feel, but they are not immune to the elements. Here’s how to clean a cedar pergola.
Sweep or dust the entire pergola to get rid of any loose debris.
Use a pressure level between 500 to 600 PSI and a fan nozzle tip to avoid damage.
Wet the pergola before applying a wood-safe detergent.
Rinse the pergola, making sure you leave no detergent residue behind.
Make sure to go with the grain when washing wooden pergolas.
Let the pergola dry completely.
As an optional step, consider applying a sealant.
If you find cuts or dings after washing, you can refinish the area with wood or metal putty.
How to Clean a Vinyl Pergola
Vinyl pergolas can add beauty to any home but also need care and maintenance. Here are the steps for pressure washing vinyl pergola.
Sweep or dust the entire pergola to get rid of any loose debris.
Use a pressure level between 1,300 to 1,600 PSI and start with a 25-degree nozzle to avoid damage.
Wet the pergola before applying a vinyl-safe detergent.
Rinse the pergola, making sure you leave no detergent residue behind.
Let the pergola dry completely.
If you find cuts or dings after washing, you can refinish the area with wood or metal putty.
How to Clean a Metal Pergola
Metal pergolas have become very popular, especially in more modern or industrial homes. Here’s how to clean a metal pergola.
Sweep or dust the entire pergola to get rid of any loose debris.
Use a pressure level between 1,000 to 2,000 PSI and start with a 25-degree nozzle to avoid damage.
Wet the pergola before applying a metal-safe detergent.
Rinse the pergola, making sure you leave no detergent residue behind.
Let the pergola dry completely.
If you find cuts or dings after washing, you can refinish the area with wood or metal putty.
How to Clean a Pergola Using a Pressure Washer
When executed improperly, pressure washing can leave long-lasting damage behind. As such, don’t go in blind, especially if you’re new to pressure washing.
How do you clean and stain a pergola? Pressure wash a pergola the right way using the following tips.
1. Wear Protective Gear
Before starting any pressure washing job, make sure to wear the proper protective gear. This includes goggles, gloves, and heavy-duty footwear. Believe it or not, pressure washing can lead to serious injuries, so it is best to come prepared.
2. Protect Surrounding Areas
Aside from protecting yourself, you should also protect the surrounding structures and spaces. Move any furniture and potted plants away from the cleaning area. Make sure kids and pets stay indoors, too. If any immovable objects are around, such as plants or a garden, wet them with water and cover them with a tarp to avoid contaminating them with detergent.
3. Inspect for Damage
Don’t just start blasting your pergola with your pressure washer. Make sure to inspect the structure for any signs of damage first. If you find any, it is best to address the damage first. Pressure washing a damaged pergola can worsen its condition.
4. Maintain a Safe Distance
Standing too close to the structure while pressure washing it can lead to injury and irreversible damage. In addition to the PSI level and the nozzle tip, proximity plays a crucial role in determining the force of the water. As such, starting at least 2 feet away is a good idea, moving closer as necessary.
5. Start With a Low-Pressure Setting
Beginning any pressure washing job with a low-pressure setting is always recommended. This way, you can avoid damaging the surface. You can adjust and increase the setting as necessary. The pressure level will depend on the type of material you’re cleaning.
6. Use the Right Detergent
Aside from soap and water, you can also use a vinegar solution (equal parts water and white vinegar), baking soda (mixed with water to create a paste), commercial solvents, and chemical cleaning products. Make sure to use a detergent or cleanser that works well with the material of your pergola. If you don’t know which detergent fits best, you’re better off buying a pergola cleaning kit, which comes with a cleanser.
7. Test on a Small Area
You may be eager to clean your pergola, but don’t let that eagerness get the better of you. Test your pressure washer on a small, inconspicuous part of your pergola first. This way, you can make adjustments as you see fit without dealing damage to an obvious area.
8. Use the Right Nozzle
The nozzle tip you use can also influence the force of the water. The narrower the nozzle, the more concentrated the force. When in doubt, starting with a broader nozzle, such as the fan nozzle, and working your way up is a good idea.
9. Work in Sections
For a more efficient job, divide the pergola into sections and work on one section at a time. This way, you can also keep track of the portions you have already cleaned.
10. Use a Consistent Speed
When pressure washing pergolas, it is best to use sweeping motions at a consistent pace. Don’t linger in any portion of the pergola, as this can result in damage.
How to Clean a Pergola Canopy Without a Pressure Washer
If you don’t have a pressure washer, you can still clean your pergola using household items or a pergola cleaning kit. Here are the steps to clean your pergola without a pressure washer.
Clear the area and cover any plants nearby.
Scrub your pergola with mild dish soap. Make sure to use a soft bristle brush for this step to avoid damaging your pergola. You can even use an old toothbrush, though it will take more elbow grease.
Rinse the soap with clean water.
Allow the pergola to dry completely. For best results, do this on a sunny afternoon.
If you find stubborn stains or mildew on your pergola, add a step before scrubbing your pergola with mild dish soap. First, hose down your pergola to prepare it. Then, use a mixture of vinegar (one cup), oxygen bleach, and clean water (a gallon), and apply it to the stains. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to work its magic. Then, using a soft bristle brush, scrub the stain or mildew away. After that, you can proceed with step 2 onward.
Pergola Maintenance Tips
All pergolas need regular maintenance to prevent damage and stubborn filth from building up. Aside from the usual cleaning, here are some tips you can implement depending on the type of pergola you have.
Wood Pergola Maintenance
Re-stain your wood pergola every three (3) years.
Make sure to wash your wood pergola gently before re-staining.
Wash your wood pergola with warm water on a regular basis.
Vinyl Pergola Maintenance
Wash your vinyl pergola regularly using warm water.
For stubborn stains, use dish soap and scrub it using a soft bristle brush.
Vinyl pergolas are generally low-maintenance, so you don’t have to re-stain them.
Cedar Pergola Maintenance
Re-stain and apply a treated sealant to your cedar pergola every three (3) years.
Wash your cedar pergola with warm water on a regular basis.
Pergola Cleaning: How to Remove Stains and Mildew
Mold, mildew, and stains can quickly make your pergola look old and ill-maintained. Stains can stem from a number of substances, but not many people know that corrosive fasteners can also cause them.
You can easily remove stains, mold, and mildew from your pergola using a bleach and vinegar solution. Combine a cup of vinegar and a cup of oxygen bleach with a gallon of water. Using a brush, apply this mixture to the mold, mildew, and stains after washing your pergola. Allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes to work its magic. After that, remove the mixture using soap and water.
To prevent stains stemming from fasteners, consider using stainless steel or aluminum fasteners. These tend to be more expensive, but they go a long way in keeping stains away.
Professional Pressure Washing Pergola
As you can see, there is a correct way to clean a pergola using a pressure washer. Unfortunately, not everyone has the experience or access to the proper equipment for the job. If you want efficient and damage-free results, hire professionals for pergola cleaning.
