Summerville Pressure Washing is the best way to remove stubborn dirt, mildew, and stains from most surfaces. However, it’s important to use a soft wash or take the proper precautions to prevent damage to surfaces.
The highly pressurized water from a pressure washer can easily damage shingles, siding, and more if used incorrectly.
The forceful stream of water from a pressure washer packs a powerful punch, capable of blasting away stubborn dirt, debris and contaminants that regular cleaning with a brush and soapy water would take forever to remove. The force of the water is augmented by the use of cleaning chemicals that are pumped into the machine before the water flows through the hose to the nozzle at high pressure. The combination of kinetic energy and the cleaning power of the chemical solution helps to break down surface tension and release stains, and in some cases, the heat from the water can help dissolve grease and oil, making it easier to rinse off surfaces.
The nozzle can be directed in different ways to focus on specific areas of your property. The force of the spray can also be adjusted to suit your needs, whether you’re looking for a simple rinse or a more targeted approach to harder-to-reach areas like stair railings and siding. And while there are alternatives to a professional pressure washing, such as spray guns and hose attachments, nothing beats the results you’ll get with an actual power washer.
Hiring a professional to pressure wash your home or business is an investment in the safety of your assets. A trained expert knows the right settings for the equipment and the correct way to use it, ensuring that your property is cleaned thoroughly without any damage caused by the pressure of the water itself or the underlying cleaning solutions. They’ll know the proper psi and water flow for different surfaces and will be aware of any nuances between different types of dirt or grime, so that they can target the problem specifically and efficiently.
Many people are confused about the differences between power washing and pressure washing, and they often use them interchangeably. However, there are a few minor distinctions that make power washing more appropriate for certain surfaces than pressure washing. First, power washing uses heated water, which is ideal for removing thick build-ups of dirt and grime from surfaces like concrete, brick, and wood. The heat also makes it possible to clean certain types of masonry and metals that wouldn’t be cleaned effectively using cold water alone.
Safety
When used incorrectly, a pressure washer can be very dangerous. Its powerful spray can cause injuries to people and pets. It can also damage surfaces and materials. For instance, using a high setting on wood can splinter it, and you could get hurt if you walk over the splintered pieces or slip. You can avoid this by choosing a lower setting or using a chemical-based cleaning method called soft washing.
The spray from a pressure washer travels fast, and it can be hard to control. To minimize injuries, you should wear goggles or safety glasses to protect your eyes from the water. It’s also important to keep the nozzle away from anything that can be damaged by the high-pressure spray, like windows and fragile items.
You should also take care to prepare the area where you’re going to be working thoroughly before beginning your cleaning job. Move or cover furniture, cars, tools, and accessories from the area you’re cleaning. You should also remove plants, bushes, or any other objects that could be in the path of the spray or become projectiles. You should also close or cover exterior outlets, doorbells, lights, and air conditioning units to prevent water and electricity from mixing.
Before you begin the actual cleaning, it’s a good idea to inspect your equipment for signs of wear and tear. Make sure the wand, nozzles, hoses, and connections are all in good shape and not cracked or leaky. You should also test the hose’s water pressure to see how strong it is. If the hose is leaking or too strong, you should replace it or buy a stronger one.
Once you start the cleaning process, it’s best to have a spotter watch for people or animals who might wander into your path. You should also keep children and pets out of the area to prevent them from getting sprayed or becoming tangled in the hose. Lastly, you should take care to properly shut down the machine when you’re finished. If you forget, the hose can continue to spray water unexpectedly, possibly injuring someone or damaging property.
Cleaning Time
The cleaning time required for pressure washing can vary significantly, depending on a number of factors. These include the size of the home, surface type, and level of grime buildup. Surfaces with more dirt and debris will take longer to clean than surfaces that are lightly soiled. It is also important to factor in any pre-treatment or post-treatment activities that may be necessary. For example, detergents or other cleaning solutions might need to be applied to help break down tough stains or discoloration before the surfaces are rinsed. Likewise, fungicides may be needed to kill off mildew spores and prevent their return.
Another factor that influences cleaning time is the use of proper equipment and techniques. Using efficient cleaning methods and avoiding over-washing can help speed up the process. Additionally, taking precautions to protect delicate surfaces and objects near the cleaning area can further reduce cleaning times. These measures include covering plants, closing windows, and removing any fragile decorations.
Lastly, the experience and skill of the cleaning team can also influence the length of time it takes to complete a pressure washing job. Professionals are skilled at working with a variety of surfaces and stains and can achieve thorough results in a fraction of the time it would take an individual to perform the same task.
Aside from the cleaning power of the machine and its accessories, the type and quality of the cleaning solution used also affects cleaning time. Mild detergents are suitable for most surfaces, while more powerful agents may be needed to remove tough stains. It is also crucial to select the right water pressure settings to avoid damaging surfaces. Higher pressure is usually required for concrete and other hard surfaces, while lower pressure is best for soft woods and other delicate materials.
The best way to streamline the pressure washing process is to divide a large house into smaller sections and tackle them one at a time. This helps to avoid over-washing and allows for more detailed cleaning of each area. It is also a good idea to prepare the exterior surfaces before starting, which can be done by removing any obstacles or debris and ensuring that all areas are easily accessible.
Eco-Friendly
Pressure washing is a green cleaning method because it uses less water than traditional methods. Professionals use a wide range of spray patterns to efficiently clean surfaces without wasting water. They also prioritize detergents that are biodegradable and eco-friendly. The use of eco-friendly detergents also reduces the amount of pollutants that go into natural water bodies through runoff. This safeguards ecosystems and minimizes environmental damage.
Routinely pressure washing your home or commercial property prevents the buildup of mold, mildew and algae. These substances can cause serious structural damage and may even rot your property. They can also impact your health and make breathing difficult for people with asthma or other respiratory problems. Pressure washing removes these contaminants and keeps them from forming, extending the life of your property and saving you money on costly repairs.
When it comes to commercial properties, routine cleaning of sidewalks, walkways, parking garages and other surfaces helps to avoid accidents that can occur due to slippery conditions. Pressure washing removes grease, bird droppings and other contaminants that can cause employees to slip and fall. This saves the company money on costly insurance claims and damages and protects the health and safety of its employees.
If you own a home, the more you pressure wash your house, the less often you’ll need to replace its siding. This conserves the natural resources that are used to manufacture and install new siding, reducing the environmental impact of your home.
A conscientious pressure washer will always use non-corrosive cleaners that are biodegradable and safe for landscaping, pets and people. It is important to know that pressure washing can damage your home’s paint and wood surfaces if the wrong cleaner is used. If you do use chemicals to pressure wash your home, be sure to wear rubber gloves and take all necessary precautions. Bleach, for example, is corrosive and can kill grass and other sensitive plants. It’s also a hazard for children and pets who might lap up the spilled water. When using a chemical like this, it’s imperative that you follow all instructions carefully and practice on an inconspicuous area before spraying your entire yard.