Are you thinking about improving the appearance of your home? Pressure washing is a fantastic way to rejuvenate the exterior of your home and make it look brand new again. However, DIY pressure washing can quickly turn into a nightmare if not done correctly.
Trying to do the job yourself can be tempting when it comes to pressure washing, as the task seems relatively easy. Still, the risks of damaging your property are significant if you don’t have actual experience.
In this blog, we will explore the top 10 common DIY pressure washing fails so that you can keep an eye on them and avoid expensive mistakes. Also, why hiring professional pressure washing services are the best choice for a pristine and damage-free clean.
Let’s dive in!
Damaging the Surface
The first and most significant risk of DIY pressure washing is damaging the very surface you are trying to clean. Each surface requires a specific approach, whether it’s your deck, driveway, or siding.
Using the wrong pressure or improper tools can lead to costly repairs and replacements. For instance, using high-pressure washing on delicate wooden surfaces can result in paint fading or, worse, causing irreparable damage.
Professionals have the expertise to assess each surface and determine the appropriate pressure and equipment for the job. Hiring professionals ensures that your home’s exterior is cleaned effectively without compromising its durability.
Over Washing
Believe it or not, more pressure is not always better. Overwashing a surface or using too much pressure can cause more harm than good. The forceful water stream can strip away paint, cause staining, and leave behind scratches and other damage.
A professional pressure washing service understands the delicate balance needed for effective cleaning. They know when to apply gentle pressure and when to increase it for stubborn stains.
If you are not familiar with the technical aspects of DIY pressure washing, it is advisable to leave it to the experts.
Using the Wrong Nozzle
Using a nozzle that is too powerful for cleaning the surface is a common DIY pressure washing mistake. A high-pressure washing nozzle can scrape paint, remove plasters, and even harm bricks, concrete, and other materials if used in an unprofessional manner.
On the flip side, using a pressure washer nozzle that lacks power may not effectively clean the surface, resulting in wasted time and effort also extra water bills.
Professional pressure washing services come equipped with a range of nozzles suitable for various surfaces. They have the knowledge and experience to select the proper pressure washer nozzle, ensuring a successful and damage-free cleaning process.
Using the Wrong Detergent
Pressure washing requires more than just water; it often involves the use of detergents to remove stubborn grime and stains. Using the wrong detergent can leave behind streaks, spots, and other discolorations that are challenging to remove.
Moreover, certain detergents can cause damage to the surface, such as stripping away paint or etching into wood or stone.
Professional pressure washers are well-versed in choosing the appropriate detergents for each job. They understand the chemistry behind detergents and how they interact with various surfaces, ensuring a safe and effective cleaning process.
Not Testing First
Taking a shotgun approach to pressure washing your entire home is risky. Before you start, it’s crucial to test a small area first. While this is a must to ensure your own safety, it also allows you to guess the right amount of pressure needed for the job and ensure the surface can handle it.
Excessive pressure might cause damage to the home’s exterior, while too little pressure won’t deliver the expected results.
Professional pressure washing services always perform a test spot to evaluate the surface’s reaction and determine the optimal pressure. This careful approach guarantees a thorough high-pressure house cleaning without causing harm.
Incorrect Angle
The angle at which you hold the pressure washer can significantly impact the results. Using the pressure washer at the wrong angle or with excessive force can cause damage to your property and even pose a risk to yourself. When the user does not understand the correct angle to hold the washer, pressure washing failures can occur.
Professional pressure washing experts have mastered the art of handling pressure washers. They know the precise angles to achieve the best results without harming the surface.
Blasting Electrical Outlets
Pressure washers should never be used to clean electrical outlets or wiring. Doing so exposes the operator to the threat of getting electrocuted and even starting a fire.
Professional pressure washing services have extensive experience in operating pressure washers correctly. They understand the nuances of the equipment and avoid these common pitfalls.
Not Wearing Protective Gear
Safety should be a top priority when doing high-pressure house cleaning. High-pressure water and debris can cause significant harm if not handled properly. Wearing protective gear is essential to avoid potential injuries.
Safety Now ILT says over 6,000 people were admitted into emergency rooms due to injuries they suffered while using power washers.
Professional pressure washing services prioritize safety and come prepared with the necessary protective gear. They wear safety glasses or goggles to shield their eyes from flying debris and high-pressure water. Gloves, long pants, and closed-toed shoes protect against cuts, scrapes, and burns, making them well-prepared for any pressure-washing task.
Not Protecting Your Surroundings
Pressure washing involves powerful jets of water that can cause harm to your plants and other surroundings. Additionally, chemicals used in pressure washing can also damage plants and surfaces. Failing to protect these elements can result in unwanted consequences.
Professional pressure washers take necessary precautions to safeguard your surroundings. They use protective covers on plants, siding, windows, and doors, ensuring that no damage occurs during the cleaning process.
Not Cleaning in Sections
The size of the area being pressure washed can be overwhelming, leading many to attempt to tackle the entire space at once. This approach often results in uneven cleaning, missed spots, and potential mold growth.
Worried about how to remove mold in your homes?Discover the secrets to a clean and mold-free living space right here on our top 10 mold prevention tips.
Professional pressure washing services know the importance of dividing the area into manageable sections. Working on each section separately ensures a consistent clean and guarantees that no spots are missed.
Why Should You Hire Professional Pressure Washing Experts?
Now that we have explored the most common DIY pressure washing mistakes, it’s clear that hiring professional pressure washing services is the way to go. Here are some compelling reasons why:
Experience and Expertise
Professional pressure washers have years of experience in handling various surfaces and cleaning challenges. They know the right amount of pressure to use for each surface and the right solutions to use, ensuring a thorough cleaning without any damage.
Proper Equipment
Professionals come equipped with high-quality pressure washing machines and various nozzles and attachments suitable for different surfaces. This specialized equipment allows them to achieve the best results efficiently.
Knowledge of Cleaning Agents
Professional pressure washers are well-versed in the use of cleaning agents that are safe and effective for each surface. They understand the science behind detergents and how they interact with different materials.
Time and Cost Savings
Attempting DIY pressure washing may seem cost-effective at first, but it can lead to expensive repairs if something goes wrong. Hiring professionals eliminates the risk of damages and ensures a thorough cleaning, saving you time and money in the long run.
You also save on water bills. According to Karcher, a pressure washer uses around 400 to 600 liters of water per hour.
Professional pressure washing services are well-versed in water efficiency. They utilize the least amount of water necessary to achieve outstanding results, reducing your water bills and promoting eco-friendly practices.
Safety
Pressure washing can be hazardous if not done correctly, particularly if you have no prior experience. Professional pressure washers are trained in safety procedures and wear protective gear to reduce the risk of injury. If you are not a professional, it is best to hire one to pressure wash for you.
Better Property Value
Clean property with curb appeal can fetch a higher price in the market. Potential buyers are often willing to pay more for a property that is well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing.
According to the National Association of Realtors, pressure washing can increase the sale price by $10,000 to $15,000.
Professional pressure washing is relatively low cost compared to the potential increase in property value, which makes it a cost-effective investment with significant returns, especially beneficial for you if you are selling your property or are into real estate.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pressure washing is undoubtedly a fantastic way to revitalize your home’s exterior and boost its curb appeal. But DIY pressure washing can quickly turn into a nightmare if you’re not careful.
The risks of damaging surfaces and using the wrong nozzles and detergents are too high to ignore. That’s where the professionals come in! Hiring professional services is the wisest choice for a thorough and safe cleaning.
From assessing the surface and using the correct pressure to protecting your surroundings and wearing the appropriate gear, professionals bring experience, expertise, and efficiency to the table.