Pressure washing is one of the effective ways to deep clean the exteriors with heated and pressurized water force. By removing the toughest layers of grime, it helps give your home a clean and attractive look.

However, like every cleaning method, there are certain things to keep in mind during pressure washing. Failing to know them can lead to ineffective cleaning or can even cause damage to your home’s exteriors. So, here are some do’s and don’ts by our ARD experts for the best pressure washing of your home.

Do’s of Pressure Washing By Experts

⇒ DO protect the landscape.

Ensure to wet the plants before and during the pressure washing so as to not allow them to absorb the dirty and chemical-laden water. We also advise covering the surrounding plants and trees with a tarp to protect them from damage.

⇒ DO follow the safety instructions in the manual.

Being a risky equipment, the pressure washer comes with a manual with usage directions. Our pros recommend always reading the manual for operating the washer safely and properly.

⇒ DO test the pressure washer before use.

Our pressure washing technicians at ARD Cleaning Services suggest taking a demo of the pressure washing machine before operating it. Start from the lowest pressure, increasing it later as you get the grip.

⇒ DO release the pressure before detachment.

Even if you shut the pressure washer off, the pressure inside it still remains. We always advise releasing all the pressure before detaching the hose, spray gun, and nozzle. Failing to do so can unknowingly cause harm.

⇒ DO repair broken surfaces before pressure washing.

If you pressure wash broken surfaces such as cracked walls or brick, it can allow the water to intrude and cause it to crack more. The entered water can even cause mold to grow. So you should always repair them before pressure washing.

Don’ts of Pressure Washing By Experts

⇒ DON’T pressure wash the lead-painted surfaces.

Pressure washing lead paint can spread lead into the air which can be dangerous to the surroundings as well as people, warn our experts. Moreover, according to EPA Guidelines, if the lead content is more than 0.5%, the area to be cleaned should be completely encapsulated.

⇒ DON’T forget to use protective gear.

The high pressure of water is powerful enough to cut through a human body. The dirt and grime being washed away can also be infectious. This is one of the reasons to avoid DIY pressure washing.

However, if you still attempt, be sure to wear protective gear while pressure washing. This contains a heavy-duty raincoat, rubber boots, rubber gloves, safety goggles, and earplugs. Ensure that the area is isolated and there are no people around, especially the kids and pets.

⇒ DON’T pressure wash without an angled spray.

Pressure washing directly on a surface can cause the dirt to seep deeper instead of rinsing out. Ensure that you use the pressure washer at a suitable angle for the best rinsing to scoop out the dirt.

⇒ DON’T pressure wash windows.

Pressure washing is supposed to be done on concrete surfaces like masonry. Never attempt to pressure wash your windows. It can break the glass, crack the sills, and cause complete damage.

⇒ DON’T attempt to move objects with the spray.

Although the pressure washer has enough pressure to move the objects, never attempt to do so. This can throw them in an unwanted direction, making them strike and harm someone.

⇒ DON’T use a gas-powered washer indoors.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – CDC (in its pressure washer safety guidelines) prohibits using gasoline-powered washers in enclosed spaces. Such washers release carbon monoxide gas that can be harmful if used without proper ventilation.

⇒ DON’T use 0° Red Nozzle Tip.

Every nozzle comes with a certain pressure level. Always use the right nozzle for the surfaces. Red nozzles have the maximum pressure that is not safe to be used on residential properties. Avoid using this high-strength nozzle that is designed for construction equipment cleaning.