All right, it’s time to bust out the pressure washer and get to work. But before you start cleaning, you might want to check yourself first. There are a lot of common pressure washing mistakes, and you don’t want to ruin your machinery or ruin your house.
So before you get to cleaning, take a moment to review this article and learn some of the most common errors you can make while pressure washing houses.
1. Common Pressure Washing Mistakes: Over-Wetting
This occurs when too much water is used, causing the water to seep into the home through cracks and other openings. This can lead to water damage and mold growth. To avoid over-wetting, be sure to use the correct amount of water for the job.
Start with a lower pressure setting and increase the pressure if needed. If using a power washer, hold the wand at least 12 inches away from the surface to avoid damaging it.
2. Poor Setup
Poor setup is one of the common pressure washing mistakes. This can lead to all sorts of problems, from poor performance to water damage. Before you start pressure washing, take the time to set up your pressure washing equipment.
This includes making sure the hose is secure and the pressure washer is properly positioned.
3. Not Enough Detergent
If you don’t use enough detergent when pressure washing, you won’t be able to remove all the dirt and grime from your surfaces. This will leave your surfaces looking dirty and can lead to premature wear and tear.
To avoid this, be sure to use the recommended amount of detergent for your pressure washer.
4. Cleaning Out of Order
This usually happens when people try to save time by starting with the area that looks the dirtiest. This can often lead to streaks and missed spots. But, this usually ends up making more work in the long run because of the areas that were cleaned the first end up getting dirty again quicker.
The best way to avoid this mistake is to start with the area that is the most difficult to reach and then work your way down. If you’re not sure how to pressure wash safely, hire a pro to do the job for you.
5. Not Rinsing Thoroughly
Always rinse the surface thoroughly before you start pressure washing and after pressure washing. This can leave residual chemicals in your siding or deck which can eventually lead to damage.
Always rinse completely with clean water after pressure washing and allow the area to dry completely before walking on it or applying any sealants or treatments.
Ready to Pressure Wash Your Home?
If you’re planning to pressure wash your home or business, be sure to avoid these common pressure washing mistakes! Pressure washing can be a great way to clean your property and improve its curb appeal, but it can also be dangerous if not done correctly.
Be sure to research the best techniques and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If you enjoyed this article and you are interested in learning more about home improvement, feel free to explore the rest of our blog.
