Don’t Let These Common Pressure Washing Mistakes Turn Your Home Improvement Project Into a Costly Disaster
Pressure washing can dramatically transform your property’s appearance, but one wrong move can lead to expensive repairs and permanent damage. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or new to exterior maintenance, understanding these critical mistakes could save you thousands of dollars and countless headaches.
The High-Pressure Trap: Using Too Much Force
Using too much pressure leads to property damage, as the water stream can splinter wood, punch holes in siding, crack concrete, and more. Many homeowners assume that higher pressure equals better cleaning, but this misconception causes more harm than good.
For delicate surfaces like wood or vinyl siding, start with a PSI under 1,500 and adjust cautiously. For tougher jobs, like cleaning concrete, you can go higher, but you should still ensure the PSI and GPM are appropriate for the task. Generally speaking, the lowest pressure setting that gets the job done is the one you want. This takes some experimentation, but always start on the lowest setting and use caution when making adjustments.
The Wrong Angle Disaster
One of the most dangerous mistakes involves spraying at incorrect angles, particularly when cleaning siding. Sidings naturally have openings at the bottom. As such, if you spray the water upward into the siding, the water will enter the inside of the property. This will result in flooding, mold growth, and property damage.
When it comes to pressure washing, it’s all in the angle. You never want to approach a surface head-on, as this only drives the dirt deeper into any available nooks and crannies. Going at an angle, however, helps lift the grime and push it away from the surface.
Skipping Safety Gear: A Dangerous Oversight
Pressure washing uses high-pressure water, which can easily and seriously wound you. It can even slice flesh depending on the pressure level you set it to. That’s why it’s so important to wear protective gear when operating a pressure washer. Start with safety glasses, but don’t forget close-toed shoes that won’t slip on a wet surface.
Choosing the Wrong Equipment and Nozzles
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is selecting the wrong type of pressure washer or nozzles for the job. Pressure washers come in various types and power levels, from light-duty electric models to heavy-duty gas-powered units.
Generally speaking, smaller tips are best for getting rid of stubborn filth, while larger tips are good for clean-ups. But, if you want to take the DIY route, it is best to use a wider nozzle first. A wider nozzle decreases your chance of damaging the surface.
Inadequate Preparation: The Foundation of Failure
Proper preparation is key to a successful pressure washing job. One common mistake is skipping or rushing through the preparatory steps, which can lead to subpar results or even damage. Start by thoroughly inspecting the siding for any existing damage, such as cracks, holes, or loose pieces. These should be repaired before pressure washing to prevent water from seeping into your home’s structure.
Using Inappropriate Cleaning Solutions
While bleach can be an effective cleaner, it’s not recommended in a pressure washer. Bleach can damage the seals and other components in your pressure washer. It’s also harmful if inhaled and can damage plants and other surfaces on your property. Always use cleaners specifically designed for use with a pressure washer.
Ignoring Surface-Specific Requirements
Not all materials can handle the intensity of a pressure washer. Certain surfaces, such as softwood, painted surfaces, or asphalt roofing, can be damaged by high-pressure water. Knowing which surfaces are safe to pressure wash and adjusting your equipment and techniques is crucial.
No, it’s not recommended to pressure wash windows. The high pressure can break the glass or damage the seals around the windows. Instead, windows should be cleaned by hand or by a professional.
Temperature Mistakes That Warp and Damage
Power washing, a technique in pressure washing that uses hot water or steam, can be an effective cleaning method for industrial and commercial structures. However, residential exteriors are usually not as sturdy as commercial ones. You may accidentally damage or warp your home and furniture if you use hot water.
Why Professional Service Makes the Difference
For residents seeking reliable pressure washing frederick services, working with experienced professionals eliminates these costly mistakes. At High Pro Power Washing, we’ve been dedicated to delivering outstanding cleaning services since 2019. Our certified excellence on Yelp and NextDoor, backed by over 200 five-star reviews, speaks volumes about our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Our focus is to provide our residential customers with great quality service at affordable prices. We take pride in all we do, and it is in our best interest to perform every task professionally at a timely manner, exceeding our customers needs and providing you with an unforgettable experience.
At High Pro Power Washing, our mission is simple: to provide superior cleaning services that enhance the beauty and value of your property. We believe in building lasting relationships with our clients by consistently delivering outstanding results that exceed expectations. Our vision is to be the leading power washing company in Montgomery County and Frederick County, known for our quality, reliability, and customer-focused approach.
The Bottom Line
Obviously, there are a handful of pressure washing mistakes you can commit when you take a DIY approach. Understanding what these mistakes are will allow you to avoid them. However, the best possible way to ensure you don’t make these errors is to hire a professional pressure washing company instead.
Don’t let pressure washing mistakes damage your most valuable investment. Whether you choose to tackle the project yourself or hire professionals, understanding these common pitfalls will help you make informed decisions and protect your property for years to come.
