Like any well-loved item, your home sometimes needs a good deep cleaning. When you’re ready to tackle the job, a power wash is the way to go.
From pollution to pollen, there are myriad culprits that could leave your home looking less than polished.
While a hose might be able to wash away some surface-level debris, the reality is that much of the grime you see (and even some you don’t) is stuck on too tightly for an ordinary amount of pressure to loosen.
That’s where a power washer comes in.
Designed to provide the extra elbow grease you need to remove pesky buildup from your home, this tool can be extremely powerful when used correctly.
Today, we’re discussing five things to keep in mind as you set out to power wash your house.
Ready to learn more? Let’s go!
1. Don’t Forget Detergent
You wouldn’t wash your body without soap, right? The same concept applies to power washing your home.
Though the force behind the machine might make it seem like simple water is enough to do the trick, you’ll still want to use a mild detergent specifically made to be used with a power washer.
That last part is especially important because using any old household detergent could end up causing damage to the outside of your home.
In the same vein, it’s also not a good idea to use bleach. Not only could it hurt the machine, you could also end up lightening surfaces you didn’t intend to alter!
The general rule of thumb when using detergent is to apply a thin coat to your exterior, allow it to sit for a few minutes, then rinse it off with water. If you’re washing brick, you’ll need to spray the surface with water first, then apply detergent and rinse it off.
2. Think Safety First
When you power wash your home, you’re shooting water at it with great force. As such, there could be potential for injury, specifically electric shock, if the water mixes with electricity.
The ideal scenario would be to turn off the electricity to your house before you begin power washing. If this isn’t an option, try to at least turn off any outside sockets, cover any exposed lighting, and be sure to never touch the machine if your hands are wet.
Other safety measures you can take as precautions include keeping both feet firmly on the ground and wearing protective eyewear and ear protection.
3. Aim Strategically
Power washing can be a great way to give your home the shine and sparkle it deserves. Yet, there are some areas that might not benefit from the process.
As you aim your power washer, consider any surfaces that may be especially delicate under the pressure. These might include specialty windows (such as stained glass ones, which require careful cleaning), the underside of vinyl siding, or any decorative elements you’ve affixed to your home.
Also be cautious when aiming the stream directly at a brick or stucco surface. If it appears to be loosened or in disrepair, the power washer could cause further damage. So, choose your exterior locations carefully and navigate the tool with caution.
4. Control the Pressure
Though you might take a look at your house and determine it requires the highest setting the power washer can deliver, you’ll most likely need far less pressure. In fact, most experts recommend using a lower setting, especially for less sturdy areas like decks.
Depending on the type of machine you select, you’ll be able to choose from a variety of nozzle types and spray settings. If you’re unsure about which to use or how to properly apply and rinse the detergent, consult your machine’s manual, or follow the next step:
5. Know When to Seek Professional Help
Though power washing can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience, it can easily become overwhelming — and even dangerous — if the job gets too big or complex.
If you’re anxious about taking matters into your own hands, the good news is there are professional companies equipped with the knowledge, resources, and personnel to do the job for you, so reach out to one!
Reading online reviews and talking to trusted friends and family are great ways to find a reputable power washer in your area, so don’t be afraid to ask around!
Power Washing and More: Your Guide to It All
These steps can serve as a helpful guide as you seek to navigate the pressure washing process.
In the meantime, don’t forget to check our blog for news and updates about home improvements and more. Want to join the conversation? Drop us a comment if there’s something you’d like to learn more about!
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