Best pressure washer for stripping old deck stain? Need advice!

Hey everyone, I'm getting ready to re-stain my deck and the old stain is flaking off pretty bad. I've heard a pressure washer can make quick work of it, but I don't want to damage the wood. Any recommendations on what PSI I should look for? I'm on a budget, so I'd prefer something under $200 if possible. Also, any tips on technique? Thanks!

Hey Dana, I've restored a bunch of decks and I can tell you that PSI is key. For softwoods like cedar or pine, you don't want to go over 1500 PSI, and even then you need to keep the nozzle moving. For harder woods like oak or teak, you can go up to 2500 PSI. But honestly, for stripping stain, it's more about the nozzle and technique than raw power. Use a 25-degree nozzle at a 45-degree angle to the wood grain. Too much pressure and you'll fuzz up the wood and create grooves. Also, consider using a chemical stripper first, then pressure wash. It'll save you time and reduce the risk of damage.

I picked up a Sun Joe SPX3000 a couple years ago for around $150 and it's been great for deck cleaning. It's 2030 PSI but you can adjust the pressure with different nozzles. I used it to strip my deck and it worked fine. Just don't get too close or you'll etch the wood. Also, check your local Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace – sometimes you can find a used one for cheap. Just make sure it works before you buy. Good luck!

Safety first! Always wear eye protection and gloves when pressure washing. That water comes out at high speed and can inject into your skin – it's no joke. Also, never point it at anyone or yourself. As for the deck, I agree with Sam: start with the lowest pressure that gets the job done. Test on a small, inconspicuous area first. And make sure you let the wood dry thoroughly before staining – at least 48 hours. If you're using a chemical stripper, follow the manufacturer's instructions to the letter. Oh, and don't forget to cover nearby plants and electrical outlets. Stay safe!

I've got a gas-powered Simpson that's a beast, but for a deck, you don't need that much. Electric is fine. One thing I'll add: get a surface cleaner attachment. It'll save you a ton of time and give you a more even clean. They're like $30 on Amazon. Also, if your deck is older, be careful – pressure washing can force water into cracks and cause rot. If you see any soft spots, fix them before you wash. And after washing, use a wood brightener to neutralize any stripper residue and restore the pH. Then stain. Good luck with the project!