It’s challenging to get started with outdoor cleaning tasks. They can be time-consuming and stressful, especially if you don’t know what you’re doing. Fortunately, the proper time-saving tools may assist you in getting done with your around-the-house chores and recreational activities in a single weekend.
Power washing equipment makes it easy to clean mold, remove mud, refresh tiles and decks, and more. But not all power washers are equal; some are suitable for outdoor chores and others for indoors. That’s why it is crucial to use the tool properly to ensure safe and damage-free results.
Here are a few do’s and don’ts tips that will help you efficiently power wash your outdoor exteriors:
Do’s For Power Washing
Prepare Before Starting
Your power washer will not live up to your expectations if you don’t have a sufficient water supply. Start by checking how long it takes to fill a five-gallon bucket with water using your hose. If it takes less than two minutes, you’re good; anything longer indicates that there isn’t enough water flow to properly run the power washer.
Inspect the Area You’ll Be Washing
Walking around your house and taking a good look at what you’ll be cleaning will help you determine which attachments to use and how high to set the pressure. If you’re unsure, always start with the lowest setting and work your way up.
Use the Right Accessories and Attachments
Most power washers come with a variety of attachments and accessories that can be used for different tasks. Nozzles, for example, vary in shape and size, each with a different impact. A zero-degree nozzle, for instance, produces a concentrated stream of water that is ideal for removing mud and grime from sidewalks.
Adjust Your Spray’s Angle for Best Force
The way you hold your power washer nozzle determines how much force is behind the stream of water. If you want more power, aim the nozzle down; if you want less power, aim it up.
Use Hot Water For the Power Washer
Most professional power washing services suggest you use hot water for optimal results. This is because hot water will dissolve grease and grime more quickly than cold water.
Don’ts For Power Washing
Don’t Use Too Much Pressure
One of the most common mistakes people make when using a power washer is using too much pressure. This won’t clean your surfaces and may also cause damage. Start with the lowest pressure setting and work your way up until you find that sweet spot.
Don’t Hold the Nozzle Too Close to The Surface
If you hold the nozzle too close to the surface you’re cleaning, you could end up stripping paint or damaging the siding. So instead, hold it about a foot away and work your way closer if necessary.
Don’t Use the Wrong Soap
Not all soaps are created equal, and using the wrong soap in your power washer can damage surfaces or leave behind a film. Make sure to use a power washer-safe soap specifically designed for the task at hand.
Don’t Use One Nozzle Tip for Every Job
If you’re using the wrong nozzle tip for the job, you could end up damaging surfaces or not getting them as clean as you’d like. To avoid this, consult your owner’s manual to determine which nozzle tip is best for the task.
Power Washing & Grout Repair in Durham, NC
If you’re in need of grout repair or power washing services in Durham, NC, look no further than Carolina Grout Pros. We are a grout repair and power washing company specialized in restoring grout and tile to their original beauty. We use the latest technology and equipment to clean grout and tile, and seal and protect them from future stains. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We look forward to helping you!
