The Cost of Deck Soft Washing and Sealing in 2024

Hey there! If you're lucky enough to have a deck, you know how great it is to have that extra outdoor space for relaxing, grilling, and hanging out with friends and family. But, like all good things, your deck needs a little TLC to stay in top shape. That's where soft washing and sealing come in. These processes can help keep your deck looking great and lasting longer. But how much does it cost? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about the cost of deck soft washing and sealing in 2024.

Understanding Deck Soft Washing

What Is Deck Soft Washing?

First off, what exactly is soft washing? Unlike pressure washing, which can be a bit harsh, soft washing uses a gentler spray and special cleaning solutions. This combo is great for getting rid of dirt, mold, algae, and mildew without damaging the wood. It's especially useful for wooden decks because it helps preserve the wood's integrity.

Common Deck Issues Addressed by Soft Washing

You know those green and black stains that sometimes show up on your deck? That’s usually algae or mildew. Soft washing can take care of that, along with other nasty stuff like dirt and even some types of stains. Plus, it helps prevent wood rot and keeps those pesky insects at bay.

The Process of Deck Sealing

What Is Deck Sealing?

Once your deck is nice and clean, the next step is sealing. Sealing is like putting a protective coat on your deck. It helps protect the wood from the elements, like rain, sun, and temperature changes. There are different types of sealants out there—some are water-based, others are oil-based. The right one depends on your deck's material and your personal preference.

Benefits of Sealing a Deck

Sealing does a couple of important things. First, it protects your deck from UV rays, which can fade and damage the wood. Second, it helps prevent water damage, which can lead to warping and rotting. Plus, it brings out the natural beauty of the wood, making the color and grain pop.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Deck Soft Washing and Sealing

Size of the Deck

One of the biggest factors in the cost is the size of your deck. The larger the deck, the more cleaning solution, sealant, and labor you'll need. Most companies charge by the square foot, so a bigger deck will naturally cost more.

Condition of the Deck

If your deck hasn’t been cleaned in a while and has a lot of built-up dirt or damage, it might cost more to get it looking good again. Sometimes, extra work like stain removal or minor repairs can add to the cost.

Type of Wood and Deck Material

Different types of wood can also affect the price. Common woods like pine or cedar are usually less expensive to treat, while exotic woods or composite materials might require special products, which can be pricier.

Geographical Location

Where you live can also play a role in the cost. Labor and material costs can vary a lot from place to place. For example, prices might be higher in urban areas compared to rural ones.

Professional vs. DIY Costs

Thinking about doing it yourself? It’s possible, and it can save you some money. But keep in mind that you'll need to buy or rent equipment and materials. Plus, there's the time and effort involved. Sometimes, it might be worth paying a professional to make sure it's done right.

Breakdown of Costs in 2024

Average Costs for Soft Washing

On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $400 for soft washing a deck, depending on the factors we just talked about. This typically includes the cost of labor and materials.

Average Costs for Sealing

Sealing can run you an additional $200 to $600, depending on the size of your deck and the type of sealant used. High-quality sealants or multiple coats will obviously be more expensive.

Combined Cost Estimates

So, what’s the total? For a complete soft washing and sealing job, you're looking at anywhere from $400 to $1,000 or more. Small decks will be on the lower end, while larger or more complex jobs can get pricey.

Additional Considerations and Hidden Costs

Frequency of Maintenance

Decks need regular maintenance. Typically, you should soft wash and seal your deck every 1 to 3 years. While this might seem frequent, it actually saves you money in the long run by preventing damage and extending the life of your deck.

Warranty and Guarantees

Some companies offer warranties or guarantees on their work and the products they use. It’s worth asking about these, as they can give you peace of mind that you’re getting quality service.

Permits and HOA Regulations

In some areas, you might need a permit or approval from your homeowners' association to do certain types of work on your property. It’s a good idea to check before you start, as ignoring this can lead to fines or other issues.

Tips for Reducing Costs

Timing the Service

Sometimes, you can save money by scheduling your deck maintenance during the off-season or taking advantage of seasonal promotions.

Bundling Services

If you need other exterior cleaning services, like pressure washing your driveway or cleaning your siding, see if you can bundle these with your deck work. You might get a discount for doing multiple services at once.

DIY Preparation

Even if you're hiring a pro, you can do some prep work yourself, like clearing furniture and debris off the deck. This can save time and potentially lower the cost.

Comparing Quotes

Always get multiple quotes from different service providers. This not only helps you find the best price but also gives you a sense of the going rate for the work in your area.

Trust the professionals at A&M Spotless today. For any house washing grime, give us a call at (484) 255-4478. GET YOUR FREE SOFT WASHING OR PRESSURE WASHING QUOTE TODAY!!!