Common Mistakes to Avoid When Power Washing your Home

Mar 18, 2024

This article is for you, DIYers! Power washing is an effective way to clean exterior surfaces, but it’s important to know the common mistakes to avoid when using this powerful equipment. These mistakes can not only damage the surface being cleaned but can also be dangerous for you if you do not know what you are doing. Here are some common mistakes for you to avoid when power washing:

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Power Washing Your Home

Using too much pressure

The most common mistake when power washing is using too much pressure. High pressure can damage delicate surfaces like wood, siding, shingles, and paint. Always use the appropriate pressure for the surface being cleaned. You can buy an attachment for your power washer that will tell you the exact amount of pressure that is being applied.

Holding the nozzle too close

Another common mistake is holding the nozzle too close to the surface being cleaned. This can damage the surface and leave marks. Be sure to keep a safe distance from the surface and adjust the pressure accordingly.

Only using pressure

You can make a surface look pretty clean by using only pressure, but this is only a fraction of what could be done. If you only use pressure, any mold that you remove will come right back because you have not killed the mold. Using a cleaning solution that kills the mold and gets to the root of the problem, will keep your siding cleaner for longer.

Using the wrong cleaning solution

Choosing the wrong cleaning solution can cause damage to the surface being cleaned. Make sure to use a solution that is safe for the surface and won’t cause any damage. You can test your solution on a small, hidden spot to make sure that the solution will work. 

Not rinsing thoroughly

After using a cleaning solution, it’s important to rinse thoroughly to remove any residue. Failure to rinse properly can leave behind streaks and spots.

Spraying at the wrong angle

Spraying at the wrong angle can allow water to get behind the siding. Avoid spraying super close to the siding and directly up. Spraying from a safe distance allows you to rinse the siding without getting any water in unwanted areas. 

Avoid These Mistakes When Power Washing for a Clean Exterior!

In conclusion, power washing can be a great way to clean surfaces, but it’s important to avoid these common mistakes to keep your home (and your family) safe. By using the appropriate pressure, correct angles, and the right solution, you can ensure a safe and effective cleaning of your exterior surfaces! I hope this article helps you DIYers safely wash your house! 

You can always call a professional to help you with this task and make sure that it is done properly! We deal with houses like yours every single day. If you are in West Michigan, we would love to serve you! Give us a call at 616-201-8282 or email us at office@pureprogr.com

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