The Dos and Don’ts of Exterior Power Washing

Exterior power washing is a great way to clean your home’s exterior and improve its curb appeal. It is also a great way to remove dirt, grime, and other debris that can build up over time. Not only will power washing make your home look better, but it can also extend the life of your siding, paint, and other materials. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind when power washing your home’s exterior. This article will discuss the dos and don’ts of exterior power washing.

When you think about power washing, the exterior of your home is likely the first thing to come to mind. And for good reason! Exterior power washing is a great way to clean years of dirt and grime off your home, making it look like new again. But there are a few things you should know before you get started. Here are the dos and don’ts of exterior power washing.

DOs:

1. Use the Right Equipment: When power washing your home’s exterior, it’s important to use the right equipment. This includes a power washer that is the right size for your home, as well as the right type of nozzle. Choosing the wrong equipment can damage your home’s exterior or lead to an ineffective cleaning.
2. Test the Pressure: Before you start power washing, it’s important to test the pressure on an inconspicuous area of your home’s exterior. Testing the pressure will help you determine the right setting for pressure washer to use so that you don’t damage your home’s exterior. This will help you avoid damaging your siding or other materials.
3. Protect Your Plants: Power washing can be tough on plants and landscaping. To protect your plants, you’ll want to cover them up before you start power washing. This will help prevent them from being damaged by the pressure of the water.
4. Move Outdoor Furniture: Outdoor furniture can also be damaged by power washing. To protect your furniture, you’ll want to move it out of the way before you start. This will help prevent it from being damaged by the water pressure.
5. Start at the Top: When power washing your home’s exterior, it’s important to start at the top and work your way down. This will help prevent streaks from forming on your home’s exterior.

DON’Ts:

1. Use Too Much Pressure: One of the most common mistakes people make when power washing their home’s exterior is using too much pressure. This can damage your home’s exterior, so it’s important to be careful. If you’re not sure how much pressure to use, start with a lower setting and work your way up.
2. Forget to Rinse: After you’ve finished power washing your home’s exterior, it’s important to rinse it off with clean water. This will help remove any soap or cleaner that is left behind.
3. Use the Wrong Soap: When power washing your home’s exterior, it’s important to use the right soap. Using the wrong soap can damage your home’s exterior. Be sure to use a mild soap or cleaner that is specifically designed for power washing.
4. Power Wash in the Sun: Power washing in the sun can damage your home’s exterior. The sun’s heat can cause the cleaner to evaporate too quickly, which can leave streaks or spots on your home’s exterior. It’s best to power wash in the shade or on a cloudy day.
5. Forget to Protect Your Windows: Windows are one of the most common places for streaks and spots to form when power washing your home’s exterior. To prevent this, be sure to cover your windows with plastic before you start power washing. This will help protect them from being damaged by the water pressure.