Maintaining the outside of your house does not only concern appearances but also the condition of your surfaces and stopping their accumulation as well as the way to prepare your house according to the seasonal changes.
One of the most viable methods of cleaning dirt, mould, algae, pollen, and other dirt that would naturally be deposited in time is through pressure washing. Properly done it will rejuvenate the curb appeal and make surfaces appear to have been refreshed without rough chemicals or paintwork.
In case of homeowners who live in regions where weather is unpredictable, like Baltimore county, MD, exterior surfaces are constantly subject to moisture levels, humidity, and changes in temperature. This is why pressure washing becomes a necessity of standard home maintenance.
Nevertheless, proper technique, surface knowledge as well as safety precautions are essential to be effective. This is a step-by-step procedure of the process of pressure washing your house without making unnecessary and preventable errors and exposing the surface to harm.
The physical principle of pressure washing.
It is necessary to know what pressure washing is about before beginning it. A pressure washer is a pipe device that supplies high pressure water on a hose and spraying gun powered by a motor or an engine. This is the force that removes grime, organic growth, and debris off of such surfaces as siding, concrete, decks and fences.
The machines have different pressure levels that are expressed in PSI (pounds per square inch) as well as flow rate that is expressed in GPM (gallons per minute). It is the basics of cleaning to match the appropriate pressure and nozzle to each surface. An excessive force may impair the materials, whereas insufficient will not clean efficiently.
Selecting the Perfect Equipment to Your House.
Choosing the right equipment can guarantee efficiency and security of your property.
Comparison between Electric and Gas Pressure Washers.
Electric ones are run quieter and can be used in light to medium household jobs such as siding or patio furniture.
The models that run on gas offer a better amount of pressure and are more applicable in the driveway, brick, and soiled heavily.
Nozzle Selection Matters
Nozzles of pressure washers are color coded to show the angle of spray:
- Red (0deg): This is very concentrated spray and is seldom applied on houses.
- Yellow (15deg): This is suitable on concrete and hard surfaces.
- Green (25deg): All purpose cleaning on the siding and decks.
- White (40deg): Light scrubbing windows and fragile surfaces.
- Black: It is applied to soap.
One of the most crucial things in the prevention of surface damages is the use of the appropriate nozzle.
Tips Before Pressure Washing: Preparation of Your Home.
The cleaning process becomes easier and less dangerous through preparation.
Clear the Area
Eliminate external sprinkling and grills, potted plants and decorations. This provides you with un-obstructed access, eliminating accidents.
Secure Weaknesses.
Plug in electric outlets, lights, door bells and vents with plastic. Close all the windows and doors.
Inspect Surfaces
Peeling paint, loose boards, cracked siding or damaged mortar are indicative of the presence of hazards. Washing with pressure may aggravate the problems, therefore, it is better to fix them prior to it.
Pre-Rinse Heavy Debris
A basic hose rinse will wash off all the amateur dirt and cobwebs leaving the pressure washer to work on the hard stuff.
The Effective Usage of Cleaning Solutions.
Although simple water can be used to clean the surface dirt, there are some stains that need specific cleaning solutions.
- Mildew and algae: Cleaners that are organic in nature should be used.
- Oil or grease: Apply the degreasers on the driveways and garage floors.
- General dirt: Light detergents that have been designed to be used on pressure washers are effective when applied to the siding.
Never pour solutions without reading the instructions of the manufacturer and do not rinse without letting the solution dry off a little. Chemicals should not be mixed, and this may be dangerous.
How to blast the house with a pressure hose?
Start from the Top
Starting at the top level of your house and going downwards. This avoids discharge of dirty water on areas that have been already cleaned.
Maintain Proper Distance
Hold the spray wand at a distance of 12-18 inches of a surface. Tilts depending on the type of material and the pressure.
Apply Suave, Intersecting Strokes.
Avoid lingering in one spot. Regular and large-scale movements guarantee streak-free and harmless cleaning.
Rinse Thoroughly
With the detergent applied, change to the wider nozzle, and rinse downwards. Ensure that all the residue is washed off to avoid streaking.
Surface-Specific Techniques
Various materials need varying methods.
Siding: Vinyl and Fiber Cement.
A low-pressure setting is used with a 25deg or 40deg nozzle. Spray with a small downward angle in order not to force the water behind panels.
Brick and Masonry
Brick is able to withstand greater amounts of pressure, whereas broken mortar cannot. Take a nozzle of 15deg or 25deg and maintain distance.
Wood Decks and Fences
Wood is less hard, and easily etched. Apply less pressure and broader spray patterns. Always make sure you are following the grain of the wood.
Walkways and Concrete Driveways.
Concrete is more pressure resistant. Stains are pre-treated followed by cleaning with steady and linear strokes to achieve homogenous cleaning.
Safety Things You Just Can’t Afford to Forget.
Pressure washers are dangerous instruments that should be handled with care.
- Wear eye protection, close-toed shoes and gloves.
- Do not spray the people or pets with the spray wand.
- Extension wands should be used in tall places, and no ladders.
- Always remember to start the machine with the recoil.
- Keep children out of the working place.
The additional precaution is required when sweeping the walkways and steps in areas such as Baltimore County in MD where algae may grow thus rendering surfaces dangerous.
Timing and Weather Issues.
The best day to use is selected.
- It is better to avoid windy conditions to avoid overspray.
- Select low temperatures to ensure that detergents do not dry up.
- Avoid intense sunlight that is direct.
- Make sure that there is no rain to be anticipated soon after cleaning.
The spring and early fall are considered to be the best seasons when the pollen, mould, and other seasonal debris are the most prominent.
Post Cleaning Inspection and Maintenance.
Once it is completed, go around the house and make sure you check clean spots. Check areas of missed spots, streaking or second pass. Working surfaces Furniture should not be replaced or fixtures uncovered before the area is completely dry.
Exterior washing with a garden hose on a regular basis between the deep cleanings is known to prolong results. Pressure washing every year or semi-annually ensures that the accumulation is under control and prevents the use of harsh cleaners in the future.
Conclusion
Finding out how to properly pressure wash your house is not just a matter of firing up a machine and hosing down your house. The correct choice of equipment, careful planning, surface consciousness, and safe methods are all important aspects that can result in clean and consistent outcomes.
In Baltimore County, MD, exterior cleaning is a routine that the homeowner does to ensure the impact of such factors as humidity, seasonal debris and environmental exposure is controlled.
With a well-organized guide and an adaptation of techniques in accordance with the type of surface, you will be able to keep the exterior of your home tidy and safe. Pressure washing can be a sure thing for long-term home maintenance instead of a dangerous task when performed with consideration.
The most common questions (FAQs).
1. What is the frequency with which I should pressure clean my house exterior?
A majority of homes can be washed by pressure washing at least once a year, but shady and moist areas might need it more often.
2. Is there a complete removal of mold and algae in pressure washing?
Yes, it is quite effective in the removal of most organic growth when used in combination with the right cleaning solutions and the right technique.
3. Is the pressure washing of windows safe?
Windows are to be washed under low pressure having a wide angle nozzle. Glass might be broken by high pressure or seals may be broken.
4. Will it be better to pressure wash surfaces before painting/sealing them?
Absolutely. Cleaning: This is done to fix the paint or sealants by eliminating the dirt, chalking and residue.
5. What pressure is suggested to wash the house?
The range of 1,300-2, 500 PSI is considered to be a safe range of cleaning most exterior surfaces of a home, based on certain surface material.
6. Does pressure washing kill landscaping?
Direct spray may damage plants, however, by covering plants and rinsing them before cleaning and after cleaning, it becomes less dangerous.