Residential pressure washing is a quick way to remove built-up mildew and dirt from your house’s exterior. It’s important to take the proper precautions, such as turning off electricity, covering any windows or vents, and using a ladder that’s stable. Read on for some ideas.
You may also need a hose with different nozzles and extension wands to clean second-story siding without climbing a ladder. You could even use a pressure washer with heated water to remove moss or other tough materials.
Power
Power washing is a more heavy-duty cleaning method that can remove stains and dirt from any surface. It’s ideal for concrete surfaces, brick, and masonry. It can also be used to kill weeds and moss. However, it’s important to know how much pressure you need for each surface and what cleaners are best for them.
The right cleaner can make a huge difference in the outcome of your pressure wash. Some cleaning products require bleach while others can be used without it. It’s also crucial to check if your home’s exterior paint contains lead. A professional can help you choose the safest cleaner for your house’s paint.
Siding, driveways, decks, and patios all benefit from a good power wash. If you’re selling your home, it can even increase its value. Just be sure to protect nearby plants and shrubbery with drop cloths or plastic sheeting. Also, be sure to check the weather before starting. A strong summer sun can dry your cleaning agent before it’s able to rinse off the surface.
Water
The pressure from the washer provides the power that breaks up stains and dirt. Water volume is what flushes that broken-up filth away, and the higher the gallons per minute of water flow through the nozzle, the quicker it will clean.
Robohm advises that homeowners who plan on doing their own pressure washing should make sure there is an outside water source near the home that they or their hired help can access and use. They should also make sure their well water is tested, as dirty water can damage a pressure washer and affect its performance.
Then, homeowners should carefully note the location of any windows and electrical outlets on the exterior of their house so that they don’t accidentally hit them with the water jets. They should also remove or cover any lawn furniture, toys, bikes, or other items that could get wet during the cleaning process. They should also cover any plants that are near the area to be cleaned and take careful care not to drive water into cracks or holes in brick or mortar, as this can cause further damage to the surface.
Equipment
Residential pressure washers dispense cleaner, either from a built-in tank or siphoned out of a bucket. The chemical action of the cleaning agent is just as important as the pressure of the water itself for effective washing, so choose carefully.
Select a commercial-grade hose that’s built to resist movement, pulling, winding, kinking, and accidental stepping on. Hoses can be expensive, but a quality one lasts longer and reduces the cost of replacement over time.
Use green or white nozzles for most jobs, as their broad spray angle is less likely to damage surfaces. Reserve yellow and red nozzles for the toughest jobs, as they have a narrower spray angle that provides more cutting power but can also damage surfaces.
Prepare for your business by acquiring the necessary equipment, buying a vehicle to haul the equipment, and paying for insurance and licenses. Invest in a high-quality pressure washer that will help you do a more thorough job and earn the trust of your clients, which helps your business grow.
Safety
While it may be tempting to grab a garden hose and start blasting away at your home’s mold, mildew, and soot-covered exterior, residential pressure washing is not without risk. Injuries can range from a few minor scrapes to life-changing lacerations and exposed bone. In severe cases, people can be permanently disfigured, blinded, or even killed by the force of water spray.
Before beginning any pressure washing project, make sure all power to the equipment is completely cut off; it’s also important to avoid spraying electrical outlets and appliances as the combination of electricity and standing water could result in shock or electrocution. Also, cover surrounding greenery with tarps or plastic sheeting; ensure windows and doors are closed and secured as well.
It’s also wise to use caution when using a zero tip; they spray a narrow-angle of water and can cause the most severe injuries if the stream hits your body. To reduce this risk, start spraying a test surface several feet away and move closer gradually. Refer to This Web Page.