Hello everyone,
What a great site!! My name is Jerry. I've been involved in pressure washing wood decks, wood-sided homes and log homes for 16 years. I got a painting license 3 years ago, but still most of my jobs include Washing, Oiling, staining, sandblasting, chinking etc. on wood decks and log homes.
I live in Alpine, Arizona. Most folks don't even know Arizona has large mountains where we get a lot of snow, but we do. I own several cold water pressure washers, a sandblaster, two bucket trucks (Cherry pickers) an enclosed trailer and probably more hose's and tips than I really need. I was a deputy sheriff for 17 years before getting into this business where I can finally make a little money.
I have the same problems in AZ that I've been reading about on this site. Mold/Mildew and "Do I use Bleach or not" How much pressure is to much to use on a deck that has had 4 or 5 coats of "Who knows what" put on it, 4 or 5 years ago, and the owner wants it to look brand new again. I guess it's the same no matter where you live. Another problem is the ground water. Most home owners have Wells and DON'T want any kind of chemical used to do the cleaning. The water table is pretty high and they are afraid of chemicals in their water. Naturally, sometimes you have to use something or just pass the job up.
I also do Taxidermy work. I have gone to the Taxidermy sites and find that most taxidermists hold very close their "Trade Secrets" and it's like pulling teeth to learn anything new. I haven't seen that on this site. Everyone seems willing to share their ideas, and what they've learned through the years. I think that is Great!!
I hope to spend a lot of time here in the Winter months. I generally can't work during the Winter, as there is to much snow on the ground, the pumps freeze etc, so I just take the winters off. It's a great Life! I'm pretty busy during the summer months though.
Thanks for such a great site with such wonderful folks who can share their ideas.

ALPINE PAINTING AND OILING LLC.