Power washing, sometimes known as pressure washing, a business, house, patio, or deck isn’t exactly rocket science.
And yet, a few simple mistakes can not only ruin a project, but could potentially cause serious damage. Of course, many people decide to contact a professional company to pressure wash their home for them (click here for more information) to ere on the side of caution, but there is nothing stopping you from completing this job yourself. So, to ensure that your next project delivers great results, you should be sure to avoid these common mistakes.
Too Much Pressure
Using too much pressure can splinter wood, scratch concrete, and put a hole in vinyl siding. Adjust the pressure on the power washer and stand an appropriate distance away from the surface before you begin washing. Alternatively, if you are unsure of how to properly make this assessment you may want to speak to a Pressure Washing Cape Coral company, or someone close to you that operates in a similar way, to help you with this task.
Water Only
Unless your goal is simply to rinse a surface, you’ll likely need a chemical cleanser or detergent. Select on appropriate cleanser for the job and follow product instructions for best results.
Ignoring Landscaping
To ensure that the detergent or cleanser you’re using doesn’t burn plants, protect the area with a tarp before power washing. If the cleaning product is plant friendly, simply wet down garden beds and foliage to ensure they don’t dry out in the process. If you have quite a wide and long landscape then you may want to take a look at services that deal with landscaping in Castle Rock or check in with your local landscaper to see how they can help you with this and offer you important tips.
Painted Surfaces
Painted surfaces that are old or regularly exposed to hours of sunlight might not fare well against a power washer, even at a gentle setting. Ask an expert for advice.
Washing Mold-Prone Surfaces
Fabric, upholstery, and even drywall that cannot dry thoroughly before developing mold should not be saturated with water, including a power wash.
Not Following the Top-To-Bottom Rule
If you’re power washing your entire home, start at the top and work your way down. But be careful when washing your roof as certain materials, like asphalt shingles, may not be able to hold up against high water pressure. Move down the exterior, to the patio or porch, and finally the windows so that run off from one area doesn’t make the rest dirty again.
In Hot Water
While commercial contractors will use hot water to get a faster, better clean in industrial applications, residential exteriors are typically not strong enough to withstand hot-water power washing.
Ignoring Use Instructions
If you’re not familiar with the equipment and how to use it, you’re practically inviting trouble. When renting a power washer, get a proper demonstration. If you have your own, and even if you’ve used it before, and never hurts to take a second look at operating instructions.
The home remodeling and handyman team at Pann Home Services can help you with almost any exterior project – including power washing, direct repair, deck and patio building, and much more. Call today to schedule service or request a free project estimate.