Prepare for Spring with Pressure Washing

 

There's something about the arrival of spring that makes us all want to deep clean our homes—inside and out. The windows get washed, the carpets get shampooed, and the cobwebs get dusted. But what about the outside of your home? Just because it's not as visible doesn't mean it doesn't need a good cleaning. In fact, now is the perfect time to pressure wash your home's exterior before the warmer weather arrives. Not sure where to start? This guide will show you how to pressure wash like a pro.

What is Pressure Washing?

Pressure washing is a technique that uses high-powered water to remove dirt, grime, mold, mildew, and other build-up from surfaces like concrete, stone, brick, and siding. It's an effective way to clean your home's exterior and improve its curb appeal. Plus, it can even extend the life of your siding by preventing damage from mold and mildew. 

Not sure where to start? Here are some areas of your home or business that could use a good pressure washing: 

1. Driveway and sidewalks 

Your driveway and sidewalks are probably one of the first places people see when they come to your home or business. So it’s important to keep them clean! Pressure washing can remove any dirt, grime, or stains that have build up over the winter months. 

2. Siding 

If you have siding on your home or business, pressure washing can help restore its original color and make it look like new again. Over time, siding can become dull and faded from the sun, rain, and other elements. But with a good pressure washing, it will look good as new in no time! 

3. Gutters 

Gutters are an important part of your home’s drainage system so it’s important to keep them clean and free of debris. Otherwise, they won’t be able to do their job properly and could lead to water damage. A quick pressure wash can remove any leaves, sticks, or other debris that may have accumulated over the winter months. 

4. Decks and patios 

If you have a deck or patio, now is a great time to give it a good power washing. This will remove any dirt, grime, mildew, or algae that may have built up over the winter months. Not only will this make your deck or patio look better, but it will also help extend its lifespan.  

5. Windows 

It’s easy for windows to get dirty – especially if you live in a city where there’s a lot of pollution in the air. Pressure washing your windows will remove any dirt, dust, or grime that has built up on them over time. Plus, it will also make them easier to clean in the future! 

6. Carpets 

You might not think of carpets as an area that needs to be pressure washed but they actually benefit greatly from it! Pressure washing removes any dirt, dust mites, or other allergens that may be lurking in your carpets. It’s also a great way to refresh carpets that have been in storage over the winter months. 

7. Furniture 

Outdoor furniture can take a beating from the sun, rain, snow, and other elements over time. But a quick pressure wash can restore its original color and make it look like new again! Just be sure to use a low-pressure setting so you don’t damage the furniture.

How to Pressure Wash Your Home's Exterior 

Now that you know what pressure washing is and why it's important, it's time to learn how to do it yourself. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

1. Choose the right pressure washer. Not all pressure washers are created equal. You'll want to choose one that has enough power to tackle your specific cleaning project—but not so much power that it damages your siding or other surfaces. If you're not sure which pressure washer to choose, ask a professional for advice. 

2. Prep your surface. Before you start pressure washing, you'll need to clear the area of any obstacles like patio furniture, planters, and toys. Then, wet down the surface with a garden hose to help reduce the risk of damage from the high-powered water stream. 

3. Start at the top and work your way down. To avoid streaks and ensure even coverage, startpressure washing at the top of your house and work your way down. Be sure to hold the nozzle about two feet away from the surface as you work so that you don't damage paint or other finishes. 

4. Use caution around windows and doors. The high-powered water stream from a pressure washer can cause serious damage to windows and doors if you're not careful. To avoid breakage, hold the nozzle at least three feet away from glass surfaces as you clean them.  

5. Rinse thoroughly when you're finished.. Once you've finished pressure washing your home's exterior, rinse everything one last time with a garden hose to remove any residual soap or cleaner. Then stand back and admire your handiwork! A little elbow grease (and high-powered water) goes a long way towards making your home look its best.. 

A pressure washer is a powerful tool that can make short work of even the toughest cleaning projects—but only if used correctly. By following these simple tips, you can pressure wash your home's exterior like a pro this springtime!