But if you opt to sand your deck first, the dust-raising experience can leave you squinting like a one-eyed pirate.
John Randazzo, Owner of Long Island Power Wash, says if you opt to sand your deck 1st it might achieve the desired result, but the gritty experience is less than enjoyable.
"The deep-cleaning action of a power wash will remove ground-in dirt, mold and mildew without all the mess," says Randazzo.
Randazzo recommends using at least a mid-sized pressure washer with at least 2400 pounds per square inch of pressure.
"Smaller models will work, but you'll definitely appreciate a canyon-cleaning stream of a mid- to large-sized model versus a small water pick," says Randazzo.