A pressure washer is a powerful cleaning tool that can blast away dirt and grime from your building or outdoor items. It’s important to know how to use one correctly so you don’t damage surfaces or cause harm to yourself and others.
Always start by removing plants, covering items that could be sprayed with water, and shutting off power outlets or doorbells. Also, don’t spray a surface with lead paint. Contact Sea Clear Window Washing & Pressure Cleaning LLC now!
- Removes Dirt and Grime
Pressure washing is a powerful cleaning method that is capable of quickly blasting away dirt, mildew, mold, moss and other contaminants from surfaces such as driveways, sidewalks, buildings, vehicles and other equipment. It’s often used in combination with detergents and cleaners that are formulated to break down, emulsify and suspend specific types of stains and contaminants (like oil, grease, mildew, and mold) to help them more easily dissolve and be rinsed away.
Before you start power washing, it’s important to understand how the process works and the safety precautions that are required. First, you’ll want to protect yourself from accidental pressurized spray by wearing safety glasses and close-toed shoes. A direct, close-range spray from a pressure washer can sting and possibly even break the skin. You’ll also want to clear the area of any furniture, plants, or grills that could get blasted with high-pressure water, and sweep away loose dirt and debris. It’s best to start with the highest surfaces and work your way down, so you can avoid getting water or dirt in areas that aren’t supposed to be cleaned.
You’ll also want to consider the type of surface you’re cleaning, as different surfaces require varying levels of pressure to clean effectively. For example, glass surfaces need a low PSI to prevent shattering. Wooden surfaces like decks and fences should be washed with a lower PSI and wide-angle nozzle to avoid damage. Metal surfaces can withstand higher PSI levels, but they need to be washed with care to avoid causing etching or rusting. A knowledgeable and experienced professional will be able to select the proper PSI and GPM settings for your surfaces to ensure efficient cleaning results without damaging them.
- Removes Moss and Algae
It’s not uncommon for moss and algae to grow on walkways, patios and decks, especially in shady areas with little air circulation. This unwelcome guests leave surfaces with an unsightly green tinge and create slick hazards that make walking around your property hazardous. Moss and algae also penetrate porous materials like concrete, wood and vinyl siding, causing water build-up and encouraging mildew and mold growth. Pressure Cleaning with a high-pressure washer removes these organisms and restores beauty to surfaces, making your outdoor spaces more enjoyable.
There are a number of methods for removing moss and algae, from home remedies such as using cola and other fizzy drinks to chemical sprays. However, these methods are often time-consuming and can have a negative impact on the surrounding soil and garden beds. A professional power washer can quickly and efficiently remove algae from surfaces, while ensuring the surface isn’t damaged.
Moss is another unwelcome guest that can damage your roof and clog gutters. While it doesn’t pose the same health risks as mold and fungus, it does cause your home to lose curb appeal and can lead to shingle damage over time. It’s best to call a professional roofing contractor to remove moss as soon as you notice it growing on your roof.
Getting rid of moss is difficult without the right tools. You can try using a broom or rake, but this is a very labor-intensive process that may take a long time to complete. A better option is to have a professional use a pressure washer to remove moss from your rooftop. This method is much faster, safer and more effective than trying to tackle the problem yourself with a ladder and spray bottle.
- Removes Paint
If you are considering sprucing up your home or business with a fresh coat of paint, it is vital to prepare the surface for painting. This typically involves stripping any old or existing paint before applying new coatings. This can be a very time-consuming and tedious task, especially if you have to do it manually.
Pressure washing is a quick and effective way to get your surfaces ready for a fresh coat of paint. The force of the high-pressure water spray breaks down and loosens paint layers, making them easier to remove. This method can be more efficient and faster than other manual methods, such as sanding.
There are several different types of pressure washers available, so it is important to choose the right one for your project. Look for a model with the right PSI (pounds per square inch) and GPM (gallons per minute) to get the best results. A higher PSI will provide more power, while a lower PSI is better for delicate surfaces or thin paint layers. Make sure to use appropriate safety equipment, such as rubber gloves and protective eyewear. Also, be sure to clear away or cover any furniture, landscaping, and other items near the area you are cleaning.
In some cases, it may be necessary to pre-treat the surface with a chemical before applying a pressure wash. For example, oil-based paints and stains may require the application of a degreaser chemical before pressure washing to break down and loosen the stain so that it can be easily removed with the high-pressure water spray. It is also important to adjust the pressure settings to suit the surface and paint type, as using too much pressure can damage the underlying material.
- Prevents Damage
In the hands of untrained individuals, a high-powered water jet can inflict significant damage to surfaces. However, when professional equipment and appropriate cleaning solutions are used, pressure washing can prevent surface damage, allowing for effective results with minimal environmental impact.
Using adjustable nozzles, it is possible to vary the intensity of the spray to avoid damaging delicate surfaces or materials. Surfaces like concrete and brick can withstand higher pressure settings, while soft wood or vinyl siding may require lower pressure levels to protect against damage. In many cases, the use of proper cleaning chemicals is also necessary to protect against surface damage.
For example, Space Clean uses a bleach solution to remove mold and mildew from exterior surfaces while still ensuring the integrity of the material. This process breaks down the chemical bonds that hold these contaminants to the surface, making it easier for the high-pressure water jets to wash them away.
Additionally, the mechanical force of high-pressure water jets reduces reliance on chemical cleaners, aligning with eco-friendly initiatives and promoting responsible cleaning practices. When paired with biodegradable detergents, the water-saving benefits of pressure cleaning further decreases environmental impact. This makes the environmentally friendly approach to cleaning an attractive option for property maintenance and restoration.
- Saves You Money
When dirt and grime is allowed to accumulate on a building or in its surrounding areas, it can cause damage. The good news is that if you invest in professional pressure cleaning, you can save money on expensive repairs and replacements.
For instance, if you neglect to have your concrete surfaces regularly pressure washed, it can lead to them becoming cracked and broken. The dirt and debris that builds up in the concrete pores can even lead to mould growth. This is not only unattractive, but it can also be dangerous to the health of people walking on the surface. Regular high-pressure washing can avoid these problems and keep your concrete looking brand new.
Other materials that benefit from frequent pressure washing include roofs and guttering. The removal of moss, algae, mildew and other growths can prevent them from damaging the roofing material and the surrounding materials on your property. It can also prevent costly repairs and replacements that you would otherwise have to pay for later down the line.
Another way that you can save by investing in pressure washing is through reduced energy costs. Dirty windows, siding and roofs can lead to unwanted heat transfer. When these surfaces are cleaned, the amount of sunlight that enters your home is enhanced and this can help reduce your energy bills.
If you are thinking about selling your home in the future, then regular high-pressure washing can boost its resale value. A clean and attractive exterior will be more appealing to buyers and you can therefore command a higher price for your property. Professional pressure washing services like Majestic Window Cleaning & Pressure Washing use environmentally friendly solutions to remove the dirt, grime and stains without causing any harm to the environment or your home.