The popularity of power washing is increasing day by day. People frequently expend excessive effort cleaning their automobiles, boats, patios, barbecues, and home exteriors. You can also do pressure washing, but it can be harmful if not used with proper precautions.
This is why it is advisable to hire Professional pressure washing services to do the task. But if you want to do it yourself, here are some useful power washing tips by pros you need to check out for safe and effective cleaning.
5 Power Washing Tips By Pros
➱ Choose The Right Nozzle
The extension which fits in the power washer spray is known as a nozzle. It can determine the shape and intensity of the spray pattern.
The fan nozzle has the largest spray pattern, the flat nozzle has a more focused spray pattern, and the needlepoint nozzle has the most focused spray pattern.
Small machines typically feature only one nozzle for spray adjustment. Professional machines can change the nozzles depending on the task at hand. Try using the nozzle which is suitable for you.
Some color codes for nozzles are as follows.
- Red: 0-degree nozzle. Never use it on any surface from very close.
- Yellow: 15-degree nozzle, high pressure, used to clean tires and to prepare a surface for painting and resealing.
- Green: 25-degree nozzle, best for tackling dirt and grime on concrete surfaces.
- White: 40-degree nozzle. This one is excellent for general home washing.
- Black: 65-degree nozzle. It’s the widest nozzle and is only used to wet things.
➱ Vary The Spray
Everyone has an idea that you need to change or adjust the spray according to the place you are cleaning. Always use a small spray for the worst stains, and use the larger sprays for regular cleaning, as it is easier on the stonework. You also need to be careful while holding the pressure spray.
It does have more power, so you need to have a good stance while starting the spray, or you can fall over sometimes. Varying your spray also allows you to clean different surfaces.
➱ Choose Which Chemicals To Use
You cannot use random chemicals for pressure washing, as some chemicals can damage the delicate surface. You should use the chemicals for pressure according to the type of stains.
- For organic stains, such as moss & algae, use sodium hypochlorite and alcohol-based cleaning solutions.
- For cleaning grease, dirt, filth, and grime use cleaners with sodium hydroxide as an active ingredient.
- To clean rust from your home’s exterior, use oxalic acid & citric acid-based cleaners.
- To clean stains on a stone surface, use a mixture of warm water and dish soap.
However, you should only use the pressure washer chemicals and cleaning solutions that expert pressure washers approve.
➱ Be Careful With Siding
If you’re cleaning vinyl siding with a power washer, tilt the nozzle and use an extender wand for higher sections. The spray should contact the siding from above and at an angle, not from below.
It can also cause moisture problems if the force of your pressure wash goes behind the siding. If given more than normal pressure on sidings, the panels may become loose or damaged.
➱ Avoid these things during power washing.
As power washing is one of the most common activities among homeowners, here is the list of the most common mistakes that you should avoid.
- Using the wrong nozzle
- Failure to inspect and clean the inlet filter regularly
- Not using enough water when power washing wood surfaces
- Using too much pressure when cleaning decks.
- Relying entirely on pressure washing
- Not using enough soap or detergent when cleaning
Summing Up
With the above power washing tips, you will be able to give your driveaway an amazing pressure wash. But, if you are still unsure about pressure washing, professionals can help.
Professionals are well-trained and can use power washers skillfully. They aim to provide the best services around the area and will try to fulfill your every demand. You can always call professionals for guidance and a free quote.