A: I am sorry to hear that happened -- we caution homeowners against running out and renting a power washer because it takes experience and knowledge of the right nozzles and amount of pressure to use, depending on the material being sprayed! It's even possible to damage stucco, brick and mortar, so it's understandable that wood could be harmed.

Perhaps it can be sanded, stained and then sealed to protect the exposed wood, but you'll need to consult some professionals with experience refinishing decks.

To locate some professionals to come look at your deck, make suggestions and give you bids, visit Home Advisor, type "Refinish Deck" into the search box and submit a service request so you can be matched with the ideal service professionals in your area.

by Kathy Maynard, reprinted courtesy of HomeAdvisor.com