Imagine spending your weekends scrubbing down the outside of your house. That’s a lot of hard work and not much fun.
Instead, use a power washer to quickly and easily boost your curb appeal. But first, you’ll need to learn how to pressure wash house properly and safely. Lowe’s Project Expert Hunter Macfarlane and Brian Manke share the best ways to get the job done right.
Cleans Dirty Surfaces
Over time, grime accumulates on the exterior surfaces of your home and takes a toll on its curb appeal. Rather than sit and watch your property’s appearance decline, you can lift dirt, mildew, moss, and stains with pressure washing.
Professionals use a powerful water pump to speed up and direct a narrow jet of water at your surfaces. There are various nozzles that control the amount of water pressure delivered and produce different types of spray patterns, allowing you to safely clean even delicate surfaces like stucco.
Some models of pressure washers have the option to adjust the temperature of the water. Cold water is generally used for regular cleaning, while heated water can help remove oily or greasy stains. Depending on the surface you are cleaning, it’s a good idea to test the water pressure at a distance first to determine how much pressure it can handle without damage. If you are cleaning brick, try using a lower PSI setting with a wide spray radius to reduce the risk of damage.
Removes Mold and Mildew
When mold and mildew grow on a building, their microscopic spores are released into the air. When inhaled, they can cause respiratory problems for people with asthma and allergies. These fungi also feed on the organic debris like grass cuttings, leaves, twigs and flower petals that collect around buildings. Professional power washing removes these food sources and their accompanying spores.
Using the right nozzle and surface cleaner, pressure washing your roof, siding, patios and decks removes the mold and mildew and prevents it from growing back. The spray of the water also kills the spores, making this cleaning method more effective than simply blasting away the visible growth with a hose. Before beginning a pressure wash job, make sure to move plants and cover outlets, doorbells and light fixtures with tarps. Make sure the power washing equipment is set at a low enough pressure that it won’t damage these surfaces. This will prevent costly repairs and restoration.
Prevents Corrosion
If you’re planning renovations, like new paint or a deck, it’s a good idea to get your building or outdoor items cleaned first with a pressure wash. Dirt, grime, moss, mildew and other substances can eat away at surfaces, causing them to degrade or even crack and fall apart. Pressurized washing removes these substances and stops the damage in its tracks, so you can enjoy your property for longer.
Before beginning the cleaning process, it’s important to inspect the area and relocate any items that could become projectiles when sprayed by the high-powered water. You can also cover any plants, light fixtures or other features that might come into contact with the water to prevent damage.
It’s also a good idea to close windows and doors, and turn off any electrical outlets or light switches in the area where you’ll be pressure washing. If possible, cover the area with a tarp or similar material to protect against rain and to prevent water and electricity from mixing.
Reduces Allergies
Allergies are a common affliction that can cause symptoms ranging from sneezing and congestion to itchy eyes and skin. Fortunately, there are several ways to relieve allergies, including taking over-the-counter medications or allergy shots. One often overlooked method is to regularly pressure wash outdoor surfaces, such as sidewalks and patios.
Allergens like pollen and animal dander can easily collect on outdoor surfaces and then be stirred up by wind or foot traffic, aggravating allergy symptoms. By regularly pressure washing sidewalks, patios, and decks, you can help reduce allergens around your home and make your outdoors more allergy-friendly.
Proper pressure washing techniques can also save you money on maintenance costs. Regular cleaning prevents mildew, mold spores, and dirt from building up in crevices and causing damage over time. It can also help you avoid repainting and other costly repairs down the road. Contact a professional today for more information on how frequent pressure washing can benefit your property.
