3 Common Mistakes When Cleaning by Pressure Washing

3 Common Mistakes When Cleaning by Pressure Washing

Pressure washing is a great way to clean certain surfaces, especially in high-traffic areas. But there are some mistakes that people make when they are pressure washing. Below are three of the most common mistakes people make when using a pressure washer.

Overusing Pressure

You don’t want to use an overabundance of pressure when using your pressure washer. This could etch concrete, splinter wood, or put a hole in your vinyl siding. Begin on your washer’s lowest setting, then adjust the pressure slowly. Also, ensure there’s enough distance between the surface being washed and you.

Just Using Water

You want to use a chemical cleanser or detergent when using your pressure washer. Begin the project by spraying your area with an environmentally safe, appropriate detergent that can kill mold and break dirt up. Read the instructions and follow them. Water isn’t going to do the job that water and detergent will.

Using It on a Painted Surface

Sometimes a painted surface can’t stand up to being pressure washed. This is particularly true if they’ve been in the sunlight for a long time or are old. Don’t use it on anything stained or painted, old mortar, gutters, or siding made of fiber cement.

These are three mistakes you want to avoid making when cleaning a surface by pressure washing. If you are going to buy a pressure washer, make sure that you read the instructions that come with it and follow them for the best results.