5 Mistakes to Avoid When Pressure Washing

The sight of a clean home exterior is undeniably satisfying. But achieving that sparkling finish can feel like a daunting task, especially when battling stubborn grime and built-up dirt. Pressure washing offers a powerful solution, removing layers of neglect in a fraction of the time traditional scrubbing takes.

However, wielding this powerful tool requires caution. Improper use of a pressure washer can lead to costly repairs, stripping paint, damaging siding, and even shattering windows.

To ensure a safe and successful pressure washing experience, Window Genie of W Austin San Marcos and Dripping Springs, has outlined the top 5 mistakes to avoid:

Mistake #1: Using Too Much Force

Imagine this: you're wielding a high-powered water cannon. Sounds fun, right? Not so much when you're aiming it at your delicate house siding. The most common pressure washing mistake involves using excessive force. While pressure washers are effective at removing dirt, using too much pressure can be disastrous.

Here's why:

• Damage to Siding: Different siding materials have varying pressure tolerances. Vinyl siding, for example, can easily crack or detach under high pressure. Stucco, while more robust, can also be chipped or damaged if not treated carefully.
• Deck Disasters: Wood decks require a particularly gentle touch. Excessive pressure can gouge the wood fibers, leaving your deck looking worse for wear.
• Window Woes: Windows are especially vulnerable. A powerful blast of water can easily crack the glass or damage the window seals, leading to leaks and potential mold growth down the line.

The Solution:

Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for your pressure washer to determine the appropriate pressure for different surfaces. It's better to start low and gradually increase the pressure as needed. Most residential cleaning jobs won't require the highest settings on your machine.

Pro Tip: When unsure about the right pressure, begin with a wider spray pattern. This reduces the concentrated force of the water stream and allows for a gentler clean.

Mistake #2: Not Wearing Protective Clothing

Pressure washers pack a punch.  That forceful spray of water can send dirt, debris, and even cleaning solutions flying in unpredictable directions.  Without proper protection, you're putting yourself at risk of injury.

Here's what could happen:

• Eye Injuries: The biggest concern is getting a blast of water in the eye. This can cause serious injury, potentially even permanent vision loss.
• Soaked and Soapy: Cleaning solutions used with pressure washers can irritate the skin and eyes if not handled with care.
• Slippery Situations: Pressure washing often creates wet surfaces, which can be a recipe for falls if you're not wearing proper footwear.

The Solution:

Safety first! Before you even turn on the pressure washer, gear up with the following personal protective equipment (PPE):

• Safety Goggles: These are non-negotiable. Choose a pair that fits snugly around your eyes to prevent any water or debris from entering.
• Heavy-Duty Gloves: Protect your hands from the pressure of the spray and any harsh cleaning solutions you might be using. Opt for gloves with good grip to avoid slips.
• Long Pants and Sleeves: Cover up exposed skin to minimize the risk of irritation from cleaning solutions or flying debris.
• Closed-Toe Shoes with Good Tread: Wet surfaces can be slippery. Wear sturdy shoes with good traction to prevent falls.

Mistake #3: One Size Fits All Approach

Your house is a beautiful tapestry of different materials, each requiring its own TLC. Treating them all the same with a high-powered water jet is a recipe for disaster.

Here's why a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work:

• Delicate Destructions: Certain materials, like vinyl siding, painted surfaces, and shingles, are easily damaged by high pressure. Using the wrong technique can strip paint, gouge siding, and even tear away shingles.
• Concrete Conundrums: While concrete can handle higher pressure, using a narrow spray pattern at close range can etch the surface.
• Wood Woes: As mentioned earlier, wood decks require a gentle touch. High pressure can damage the wood fibers and leave your deck looking rough and uneven.

The Solution:

Match your cleaning technique to the material you're working with. Here's a quick guide:

• For Siding: Use a lower pressure setting and a wider spray pattern. Start from the top and work your way down to avoid streaking.
• For Decks: Opt for a low-pressure setting with a fan tip attachment for a gentler clean. A deck cleaning solution can also be helpful, but be sure to choose one specifically designed for pressure washers.
• For Concrete: Concrete can tolerate higher pressure, but avoid close-range blasting with a narrow spray pattern. This can etch the surface and leave uneven marks. Use a wider spray pattern and maintain a safe distance.
• For Windows: Windows are best left out of the pressure washing equation altogether. The high force of water can easily crack the glass or damage the window seals. For windows, stick to traditional cleaning methods with a gentle touch.

Mistake #4: Inadequate Preparation

Pressure washing might seem straightforward, but a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and successful cleaning experience. Skipping these crucial steps can lead to frustration and even damage.

Here's why preparation matters:

• Collateral Damage: Pressure washing can be messy. Without proper preparation, you risk damaging landscaping, furniture, and even your car with flying debris or splatter.
• Clogged Chaos: Loose debris on your house exterior can clog the pressure washer nozzle mid-clean, causing delays and frustration.
• Water Woes: Pressure washing creates a lot of water runoff. Without proper drainage, you could end up with puddles around your foundation, potentially leading to water damage.

The Solution:

Take some time to prep your work area before firing up the pressure washer:

• Clear the Area: Remove any furniture, planters, or decorations from the vicinity of your cleaning zone. Cover anything you can't move with drop cloths or plastic sheeting.
• Tame the Terrain: Sweep away any loose debris like leaves, twigs, or dirt. This will prevent them from clogging your nozzle and creating a slippery mess.
• Direct the Flow: Consider using a tarp or a channel to direct water runoff away from your foundation.
• Protect Your Plants: While pressure washing won't directly harm healthy plants, the forceful spray can damage delicate flowers or foliage. Cover them with a tarp or give them a good soaking beforehand to make them less susceptible to the water stream.
• Window Wonderland: Seal your windows with masking tape to prevent water infiltration and potential damage to the window seals.

Mistake #5: DIY Pressure Washing Instead of Hiring a Professional

Pressure washing might seem like a DIY project, but there's a learning curve involved.  Improper technique or using the wrong equipment can lead to costly repairs.

Here's why going pro might be the smarter choice:

• Knowledge Is Power: Professional pressure washers have the expertise and experience to choose the right techniques and pressure settings for each surface on your home.
• Equipment Edge: Pros often use top-of-the-line equipment specifically designed for safe and effective cleaning.
• Safety Matters: Experienced pressure washers know the importance of safety protocols and take all necessary precautions to avoid injury.
• Time Is Money: Pressure washing can be a time-consuming task. Hiring a professional can free up your valuable time and ensure the job gets done efficiently.

The Solution:

For a guaranteed sparkling clean and complete peace of mind, consider calling in the professionals at Window Genie of W Austin, San Marcos & Dripping Springs. Our trained technicians are experts in exterior cleaning and pressure washing. We use the latest equipment and follow strict safety protocols to ensure a spotless exterior without any risk of damage to your home.

Window Genie of W Austin, San Marcos, and Dripping Springs: Your Partner in a Sparkling Home

Pressure washing can be a powerful tool for restoring your home's exterior to its former glory. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can achieve a safe and successful pressure-washing experience. However, if you'd prefer to leave the cleaning to the experts, Window Genie of W Austin San Marcos and Dripping Springs is here to help.

Contact us today for a free quote and discover the difference!