The Importance of Pressure Washing

Pressure washing is an effective way to remove stains, mildew, dirt, and grime from the exterior of your home. But it can also be dangerous, so it’s important to do it properly. Before you begin, protect plants, doorways, windows, and other areas around your home by putting down drop cloths or plastic sheeting. Then prep siding with soap or other cleaning solution.

Decks

Decks are an important part of a home’s exterior. They can be attached to the house or free-standing. They typically use wood, though more builders are turning to composite and PVC boards.

A good way to keep your deck looking great and safe is to pressure wash it regularly. This helps get rid of leaves and other debris that can be stuck between the boards and pose slipping hazards. It also removes mold, mildew and other fungi that can cause serious damage to your deck if left untreated.

The key to power washing without damaging your deck is finding the right pressure. Most soft woods will need a low pressure setting around 500 to 600 psi, while harder woods can handle a higher pressure.

Siding

Pressure washing is a great way to maintain the appearance of your home’s siding. It can also help prevent mildew and mold from growing on the surface of the siding, a common cause of home maintenance issues.

But, it’s important to know how to properly use a pressure washer when cleaning your siding. Doing so will keep you safe, ensure a better outcome, and save you time.

Start with a low-pressure spray, holding the wand a few feet away from the house to avoid damaging it. Then gradually move closer as needed.

Before using a pressure washer, mix a bleach solution with water to treat areas of mildew on your home’s siding. This treatment kills mildew and prevents it from coming back.

Next, rinse the siding using a twenty-five degree nozzle. For softer woods, like cedar, switch to a forty-five degree nozzle and stand back several feet to reduce pressure.

Garages 

Your garage is one of the most essential parts of your home. It houses your cars, bikes, tools, and other equipment. But it can also be a messy place. This is why cleaning your garage is important. You can make your garage look clean and shiny by pressure washing it. This is a great way to remove dirt, mold, and mildew from your garage floor.

However, you should be careful when using a pressure washer in your garage. It can be dangerous if you don’t wear protective gear, such as gloves and goggles.

You should also be sure to cover any outlets that can get wet, such as your electrical panel. This can prevent the water from dripping onto them.

Docks

Docks are important maritime structures that provide a safe parking space for large ocean-going vessels and container ships. They also serve as maintenance and repair facilities for ships.

They are often made from wood or metal. Regardless of material, docks should be pressure washed regularly to maintain their aesthetic and structural integrity.

It’s important to sand the dock surface after pressure washing so that the wood can be prepared for sealing. This will ensure that any splinters won’t be left behind, and will make the final product more attractive.