If you plan to pressure wash your home or business, avoid making these common mistakes! From choosing the wrong pressure to not protecting your plants, read on to learn what not to do when pressure washing.
Not reading the manufacturer’s instructions
Pressure washing is a great way to get rid of dirt and grime outside of your home, but your pressure washer won’t do its job correctly unless you take the time to read the manufacturer’s instructions. Failing to do this can result in costly mistakes that can damage your pressure washer or even your property. Whether you’re a pressure washing novice or an experienced professional, not reading the manual before pressure washing can lead to unnecessary problems and it’s one of the top five mistakes to avoid when washing. Take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with your pressure washer and follow the directions given so you can enjoy the results – free from mistakes!
Using too much pressure
Pressure washers can be an effective tool in ensuring that the exterior of your home looks clean and unblemished, but misusing one can have devastating effects. When pressure washing, it’s essential to consider the surface you are applying the pressure. Applying too much pressure can cause damage to softer surfaces, such as wood fences or garden furniture, due to excessive abrasion caused by the high-pressure water stream. To avoid these damages, use a low setting and gradually increase the pressure until you achieve the desired level of cleanliness. This will ensure that not only is your home properly cleaned, but also that it isn’t subjected to any accidental damages due to the overzealous application of the pressure washer.
Holding the wand too close to the surface
One of the most common mistakes people make when pressure washing is holding the wand too close to the surface. If your wand is held too close, it can damage the surface you’re attempting to clean, such as paint or wood. It’s important to stay a safe distance away from any delicate surfaces, as well as use a low-pressure setting which is best for soft surfaces like decks and patios. The nozzle should also be used correctly; if the water isn’t focused properly with the nozzle, it can damage surfaces due to uneven pressure applications. In addition, properly setting up your pressure washer before beginning will help ensure that everything will operate without issue, helping you avoid potential errors while still providing an effective cleaning job.
Moving the wand in one direction only
Pressure washing successfully requires a delicate balance and careful attention. One of the most common mistakes when power washing is to move the wand only in one direction. This causes uneven distribution of water and pressure, potentially leaving streaky results on the surface being cleaned. Uneven streaks can be difficult to remove, so it is essential to make sure that the wand is moved both horizontally and vertically with each pass for even distribution of pressure. Making sure to take time with each pass and to properly cleanse any surface can help add a professional finish!
Forgetting to rinse afterward
Pressure washing your house or deck can be an effective way to remove dirt, debris, and buildup. However, there are a few mistakes that can make the process much less efficient and potentially even cause damage. One of the biggest pitfalls when pressure washing is forgetting to rinse afterward. If you fail to do this, you may find yourself left with unsightly white streaks and areas where the dirt remains untouched. To ensure that your pressure washing job looks great, double-check to make sure you’ve fully rinsed away all cleaning agents and grime before you call it a day. Taking the extra time for a final rinse will guarantee stunning results every time.
Pressure washing your home’s exterior is a great way to increase its curb appeal. But before you get started, be sure to avoid these common mistakes. By reading the manufacturer’s instructions, using the right amount of pressure, and holding the wand at the proper distance from the surface, you can ensure that your pressure-washing project will be a success. And don’t forget to rinse afterward!
