Best Pressure Washer for a Deck Restoration?

Hey everyone! I'm about to restore my old wooden deck (roughly 200 sq ft). It's got years of dirt, mildew, and peeling stain. I need a pressure washer that can handle the job without destroying the wood. Budget is around $200-300. Any recommendations? I'm leaning towards an electric model since I have an outdoor outlet.

For a deck that size, electric is fine. Look for something with at least 2000 PSI and 1.4 GPM. The Sun Joe SPX3000 is a popular choice in that range. Get a surface cleaner attachment too—it'll save you time and prevent gouging. And use a wide fan tip (25 or 40 degree) for even cleaning.

Safety first! Make sure you wear eye protection and closed-toe shoes. Also, don't forget to check for loose boards or nails before you start. And if you're using a cleaning solution, make sure it's compatible with the washer and safe for plants nearby. I've seen too many accidents with people blasting away without looking.

I've restored dozens of decks. Skip the cheap electrics if you want reliability. Get a DeWalt DWPW2100 (2100 PSI, 1.4 GPM). It's a bit over your budget but worth it. Use a rotary nozzle for tough spots, but keep it moving. Also, pre-wet the deck and use a deck cleaner like Zep. Rinse thoroughly and let it dry before staining.

Honestly, for that price point, rent a gas unit from Home Depot. You'll get way more power and it'll save you time. A surface cleaner is a must for deck projects. I've used the Simpson MegaShot 3000 PSI and it's a beast. But if you insist on buying, check out the Ryobi RY142300—great value and Honda engine.