Power Washing: Do This To Your Outdoor Surfaces

If you value curb appeal, then power washing without chemicals may be the answer to reveal the natural beauty of your home. Power washing can clean up your exterior as well as the hardscaping that surrounds it, including algae-stained roof shingles, cobwebs that are hidden under the eaves, to bird droppings that are deposited on the sidewalk.

If you choose to employ an expert to provide power washing services or are looking to do the job by yourself, here are useful tips and tricks to clearing specific areas of your backyard and front.

Siding

Before beginning, switch off all electrical and plumbing outlets. Shut all doors and windows and then cover the surrounding shrubs using plastic that is weighed down with bricks, or secure them with clear tape. Before repainting your home, it is a good thing to consider pressure washing to get rid of dust as well as the peeling paint.

If you decide to apply a cleaning product, make sure you use a product that is recommended for siding. Bleach is not recommended because it could take away the UV protection from vinyl siding. Begin at the bottom and move up to stop streaks. Rinse one last time, starting from the top, to get the cleanest and tidiest finish that you can get. If your place is more than one storey, make use of a telescoping wand to the top of the eaves.

Keep clear of windows and lighting fixtures that may break due to the force of the water stream at high pressure. Make use of a lower setting on the pressure washer in order to avoid damaging the siding and peeling paint off walls. Do not spray below the horizontal siding to ensure that water doesn't penetrate the structure of your home.

Roof and Gutters

If your roof is cluttered with algae, debris, or mold problems, you may want to leave the cleaning task to the experts. The roof's high surface could be difficult, and you don't want to run the risk of the possibility of causing an accident. To avoid damaging your roof, choose the lowest setting for the power washer. Stay clear of chemical cleaners and aim towards the downward direction of the rainwater flow to stop water from soaking into the shingles.

Driveway and Sidewalks

The sidewalks and driveways are an integral element of curb appeal. Concrete or pavers that are dirty and stained do not look attractive. Power washing can remove dirt, mud and bird droppings with no difficulty in scrubbing. Before beginning, you must protect the flower beds around them from water runoff by covering the beds with a tarp and weighing them down using stones or bricks in order to redirect water to the street.

Patios and Decks

If you are looking to revive your deck, power washing will make a fresh slate prior to re-staining it. By getting rid of dirt and stains, as well as rust and oxidation, you will are left with an attractive and beautiful finish.

To prepare for power washing, take down any furniture, planters, and other decorations to ensure clear access to your deck or patio. It is important to allow your deck at least two days to fully dry after power washing before you apply stain.

General Pressure Washing Tips

Power washing can give the best results when done during the summer months away from direct sunlight. You don't have to wait until a cloudy day to power wash specific regions in the shade to prevent streaks.

Do not power wash any surface while on the ladder. It is possible to fall off your feet due to the force you feel when you turn on the pressure washer.

Be aware of your driveway, siding, and other surfaces. be sure to power wash them once every 2 to 3 years or when needed.