Whether you’ve had an opportunity to pressure wash your property before or you’re new to pressure washing, there are many aspects you should be aware of. Inexperienced pressure washer users do not realize the power and capabilities a pressure washer has when used properly and improperly. These reasons are why the All Brite Pressure Washing & More Team likes to call “The Dos and Don’ts of Pressure Washing.”
Dos of Pressure Washing
- Make a Plan Before You Begin Washing- Take a walk around your property to determine what areas of your home, driveway, walkway, or patio need to be pressure washed. In your head, take mental notes of what areas have the darkest stains as those will typically take longer. Pressure washing your entire property atleast one time a year is ideal so stains don’t build over time. While washing, keep in mind to start from the top of the wall and work your way down.
- Utilize a Good Detergent- While using just water and pressure allows you to clean, utilizing detergent cuts down on cleaning time for darker stains and helps to keep your surface cleaner longer. Pre-washing with the right detergent helps to begin breaking down the algae, rust, dirt, or oil stain before pressure is even applied. Pressure washing without detergent is like showering without soap. Sure, water and scrubbing will get the job done, but it’s not the same without soap!
- Use Different Nozzle Tips for Different Projects- Most residential pressure washers come with 3-5 different nozzle tips for various projects. The lower degree of the angle, the more direct the pressure. Use the correct nozzles, refer to the owner’s manual when washing home surfaces.
Don’ts of Pressure Washing
- Use Too Much Pressure- Yes, there is such a thing as too much pressure! Standing too close to a surface with a strong PSI pressure washer can damage the integrity of a surface. Vinyl siding can be knocked loose by using the wrong nozzle or standing too close to the surface. The key to a great pressure washer is more about the GPM (gallons per minute) and less about the pressure applied.
- Let Soap Detergent Dry- While detergents can help break down tough stains, letting detergents dry is a BIG don’t! Allowing detergents to dry could potentially damage the surface and make for a much tougher wash. A good rule of thumb is to let the detergent soak on the surface for 5-10 minutes and then begin washing.
- Allow the Pressure Washer to Contact your Skin– This can’t be understated because boy does this hurt! Pressure washers pack a strong PSI punch that can do serious damage. Serious damage could mean cut flesh or in drastic situations, the need for amputation. Before pressing the lever on the wand of the pressure washer make sure hands and other body parts are safely out of the way.
How to Contact All Brite Pressure Washing & More
All Brite Pressure Washing & More does work all year round for customers and has previous experience within communities throughout the Leland Area, including Brunswick Forest and Compass Pointe. Whether you need help on your home this Winter or in the Spring, we’re always here to help and offer guidance for those who need it! If you have any questions or would like to request a quote, feel free to call our office at 910-398-2249 or contact us through our website via this link.