Pressure washing is an inexpensive and effective way to give your home a fresh look. It removes dirt, grime, and stains from your house’s exterior surfaces, making it look cleaner and newer than ever before.
But before you begin, there are a few things to keep in mind. In order to avoid damage, you need to be sure you are using the right tools and cleaning solutions.
Use a high-quality pressure washer
A good pressure washer is crucial for getting the best results possible. This type of machine uses a pump to spray water at an intense level and pressure, removing a wide range of stains and dirt from hard-to-reach surfaces.
Choose the correct nozzle for your task
A low-pressure nozzle can be used for most jobs, but a higher one may be necessary for stubborn stains. Selecting the right nozzle can make all the difference between a good job and a great one.
For example, if you’re trying to get a spot of mold on your driveway or sidewalk, a zero-degree nozzle is much more efficient than a 40-degree one. A low-pressure nozzle is also more suitable for delicate or sensitive surfaces such as windows, woods, and vinyl siding.
Use a hose attachment to attach the nozzle for maximum control and accuracy while cleaning your home’s exterior. A hose with a wand attachment gives you the ability to move around and cover more ground while still ensuring you aren’t putting too much pressure on the surface being cleaned.
Pre-soak the surface with an appropriate cleaning solution before you start the pressure washing process. The detergent will help to reduce the amount of time spent cleaning and increase the efficiency of the wash.
Ensure the cleaning solution is safe for your house and the environment before applying it to the surface you’re washing. The cleaning solution should be free of harmful chemicals and solvents that could be absorbed by the surface you’re cleaning.
Unplug any appliances or extension cords from your electrical outlets and cover them with plastic sheet protectors before you pressure wash your home. Exposed outlets can generate a surge of electricity when the water stream hits them, causing injury or death.
Be sure to remove obstacles from the area where you will be working, such as bikes, children’s toys, outdoor furniture, and other items that can pose a fall hazard when water is flowing through them. If you have shrubs, protect them by covering them with a tarp or sheet of plastic before starting the pressure washing process.
Then, be sure to thoroughly rinse the surface with plain water to remove any cleaning solution from the exterior. Rinsing the surface is vital for preventing the water from soaking into the wood and damaging it.
Don’t blast paint with a pressure washer
When you’re pressure washing the exterior of your home before painting, many people will use 3000 psi water to try to remove loose paint from the surface. This is a bad idea because the high pressure water can actually dig holes in the bare wood and loosen up the grain, which can cause further damage to your siding. If you need the help of a reliable pressure washing company in Fairfax visit https://www.dmvpowerwashingservices.com/fairfax-va/.