Pressure washing, while seemingly straightforward, can be fraught with mistakes when not approached with due care. These blunders not only reduce the effectiveness of the cleaning process but can also potentially damage the surfaces being cleaned and even cause physical injuries.
This blog post will navigate you through six common mistakes often made during pressure washing, providing you with the knowledge necessary to avoid these pitfalls and ensure a successful, safe, and efficient cleaning experience.
Using Too Much Pressure on Soft or Delicate Surfaces
One of the most frequent mistakes is using too much pressure on soft or delicate surfaces. Although pressure washing is an effective method of removing stubborn dirt, excessive pressure can be detrimental, especially on delicate surfaces like wood, paint, or stucco.
High pressure can strip off paint, carve lines into wood, and even break up stucco, causing irreparable damage. It’s essential to adjust the pressure according to the surface being cleaned – softer surfaces require less pressure while harder surfaces can withstand more. Remember, the goal is to clean the surface, not damage it.
Not Using the Proper Chemicals for the Job at Hand
Another common mistake is not using the proper chemicals for the specific job at hand. Each cleaning job can require a different type of cleaning agent. For instance, degreasers are ideal for removing oil or grease stains, while sanitizers are best for eliminating mold or mildew.
Using the wrong chemicals will not only lead to subpar cleaning results but can also potentially harm the surface and the environment. Therefore, it’s important to understand the nature of the grime you’re dealing with and choose a cleaning agent that is designed to tackle it effectively and safely.
Not Cleaning Sufficiently Around Windows, Doors, and Other Sections of the Home
Often, a common mistake made during residential pressure washing is insufficient cleaning around windows, doors, and other sections of the home. These areas, particularly window sills, door frames, and the undersides of eaves, tend to accumulate dirt and grime, and can also harbor mold and mildew due to their relatively protected locations.
Overlooking these areas during pressure washing can result in an unevenly cleaned exterior and increase the risk of decay and damage over time. It’s crucial to pay attention to these often-neglected parts and ensure they’re thoroughly cleaned, taking care not to direct high-pressure water into gaps and seals which could potentially cause leaks.
Failing to Protect Plants, Animals, and Other Living Things from the High-Pressure Spray
Failing to protect plants, animals, and other living things from high-pressure spray is another common mistake. The powerful spray can easily harm plants, pets, and even humans if not controlled properly. Additionally, the chemicals used in pressure washing can be harmful if ingested or contacted by living beings.
Therefore, before starting a pressure washing project, it’s important to remove or cover any plants in the area, keep pets and children indoors, and ensure you’re wearing protective gear. This way, you can ensure not only the effectiveness of your cleaning but also the safety of your environment and loved ones.
Forgetting to Check the Nozzle Setting Before Beginning
Forgetting to check the nozzle setting before beginning is a mistake that can lead to disastrous results. The nozzle setting determines the pressure and pattern of the spray, which can significantly vary from one setting to another. Using a narrow, high-pressure setting on delicate surfaces can cause damage while using a wide, low-pressure setting on a surface with stubborn grime can result in inefficient cleaning.
Therefore, it’s essential to select the appropriate nozzle setting for the task at hand before starting the pressure washing process. This allows you to tailor the pressure and spray pattern to the specific cleaning requirements of the surface, ensuring effective and safe cleaning.
Not Using Safety Equipment Such as Goggles and Gloves When Pressure Washing
Not using safety equipment such as goggles and gloves when pressure washing is a common and potentially dangerous mistake. The high-pressure spray can easily ricochet off surfaces and cause injury, and chemicals used in the cleaning process can cause skin irritation or eye damage.
Therefore, it’s essential to wear protective gear, such as waterproof gloves, safety glasses or goggles, and sturdy footwear. Additionally, wearing a long-sleeved shirt and long trousers can help protect your skin from the high-pressure spray and any chemical splashes. Prioritizing safety not only protects you from potential harm but also allows you to perform the pressure washing task more effectively and with peace of mind.
Summing Up
Pressure washing can be a great way to remove dirt, grime, and mildew from a variety of surfaces, but if not done correctly it can leave behind permanent damage. Taking the necessary steps such as using the proper chemicals and safely protecting plants, animals, and other living things will ensure that your pressure washing job is effective and safe.
Be sure to pay close attention to nozzle settings and use safety equipment like goggles and gloves to remain safe while operating power washers. Don’t forget about cleaning near windows and doors too – these areas are often neglected during power washing.
Lastly, take care not to employ too much pressure on soft or delicate surfaces to avoid any serious pitfalls or mistakes when pressure washing. By following the 6 common mistakes made when pressure washing provided above, you can be certain that your next job will run smoothly from start to finish!
About Us
Kendall Roof and Exterior Cleaning should be your one-stop destination if you need residential pressure washing services in the Maryland region. We are a team of professionals who understand the necessity of having a clean exterior for every home. We focus on providing safe, reliable, and cost-effective exterior cleaning services. You can reach us at 4107265650 or fill out our contact form to know more.
