Exterior maintenance professionals suggest that homeowners should pressure clean their home's exterior before they paint any surface. But here's the key: the pressure-cleaned surfaces need at least three to five days of dry weather before painting begins.

“You might be inclined to pressure-wash just about everything around the house, but that's not always a great idea,” says Dave Trezza, the test engineer who oversees pressure washer testing for Consumer Reports. The powerful stream of water emitted by these machines can damage paint.

We may be biased, but the answer really is a resounding yes! Pressure washing the deck or patio surface before staining gives a win-win situation.

Power washing cleans the siding, wood, and other exterior surfaces so paint sticks to it better. This helps the paint look nicer and last longer, improving the curb appeal of your house.