Power washing, also known as pressure washing, is an effective way to clean outdoor surfaces of dirt, mildew, and grime and is one of the most effective and efficient ways to clean the exterior of your home or business. It’s a great way to help keep your home looking its best and can be used to clean decks, patios, driveways, siding, or to prepare a space for painting.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the basics of power washing, the benefits of power washing, and some tips for getting the most out of your power washing project.
Power Wash Basics
Power washing involves the use of a high-pressure stream of water to clean surfaces. The pressure of the stream is adjustable and can be used to target a variety of materials. The pressure is usually set between 1,500 and 3,000 psi, depending on the surface being cleaned. The water is typically heated to between 200 and 250 degrees Fahrenheit, making it more effective at removing dirt, mildew, and grime.
Benefits of Power Washing
Aside from removing dirt and mildew, it can help loosen other debris that can accumulate on outdoor surfaces over time. Pressure washing can also help to remove contaminants like pollen, dust, and other allergens that can be harmful to your health.
It can help to protect surfaces from further damage and can even help to increase the lifespan of the materials it is used on.
To get the most out of your power washing project, there are 7 tips you should keep in mind:
- Clear away any twigs or leaves and cover nearby plants or shrubbery to protect them from the high-pressure water.
- When washing, it’s important to take precautions, especially around electrical systems. Make sure to follow all safety guidelines, and wear protective clothing, such as gloves and eyewear.
- Be aware of the type of surface you’re cleaning and adjust the nozzle, water pressure and temperature of the water accordingly.
- Make sure to use a detergent that is designed for power washing. This will help to ensure that you’re using the right product for the job.
- When using a power washer, it’s important to avoid pointing the nozzle at windows, doors, and other sensitive areas. Pressure washers can cause serious damage to these areas if not used properly. It’s also important to make sure that you’re not spraying water onto electrical outlets, as this can cause a serious shock.
- Work in sections, starting at the top and working your way down. When possible, move the wand in a circular motion for better coverage.This will help to ensure that you don’t miss any spots.
- Make sure to rinse the surface thoroughly after you’re done. This will help to prevent any soap residue from remaining on the surface. If the area is still dirty, you may need to repeat the process a few times.
Once the area is clean and dry, you can apply sealant or paint if desired.
Power washing is a great way to keep your outdoor surfaces looking their best, which is also important if you are looking to sell or rent your property. A neat and clean appearance may not directly affect the value, but it surely makes a difference in curb appeal and getting people in the door!
And we can do it for you – just click here to get a quote for this and all of your home maintenance needs! At Saturday Savers, we give you your Saturdays back!