Any nearby shrubbery or plants should also be covered. Use drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect the plants and secure the sheets with duct tape.
Double-check to make sure your windows are entirely closed. Water can find its way into small cracks and can cause damage if left alone.
Use 2 parts bleach to 1 part water. Check to see if areas that need cleaning are covered in mildew and mold or are just extremely dirty. Mildew and mold need bleach, but areas that are just dirty can be washed clean with water.
You’ll get the job done even faster because you won’t be looking around for things that might be in your way. Cover or put away any extra equipment that you don’t want getting wet. [7] X Expert Source Ben BarlowWindow Cleaning Specialist Expert Interview. 23 July 2021. Back out your car if it’s in the driveway. Unfortunately, power washing your home can get your car pretty dirty. [8] X Expert Source Ben BarlowWindow Cleaning Specialist Expert Interview. 23 July 2021. Check for and remove any sharp objects that could puncture your hose while you wash. [9] X Expert Source Ben BarlowWindow Cleaning Specialist Expert Interview. 23 July 2021.
Scaffolding can cost a few hundred dollars, so keep this in mind as you plan how you’re going to power wash your home. Avoid using a ladder when you power wash your home, because the water pressure could knock you off balance.
If you need more extension cord, buy two separate ones, plug them into each other, and plug one into the power washer. For harder surfaces and higher psi, use a 15-degree spray nozzle. For softer surfaces and a lower psi, go with a 25 or 30-degree nozzle.
Using detergent allows you to wash your house with less water. The more water you use, the more susceptible your house is to water damage. Keep the detergent solution away from plants and pets, as it can be very harmful for both. Never let detergent sit for more than 10 minutes.
You can control how much water comes into the machine by twisting the knob over the faucet.
Do not try and power wash the top part of your house if you don’t have a safe way of getting up there. Contact a professional if you cannot reach the more difficult spots of your house.
Use the power washer on asphalt or a concrete floor.
If you are pressed for time, apply detergent to one side of the home at a time before returning to wash everything down. You want each part of your house to look spotless, so don’t spray more than 6–10 feet (1. 8–3. 0 m) at a time. This gives you a good, solid coating of detergent and will lead to a more complete clean.
Hold the wand as straight as possible so that it’s perpendicular to the siding. Don’t be afraid to go back over areas of your house a few times. While you never want to spray your house with too much water, you certainly don’t want to leave any detergent behind!
Power washing is considered one of the best paint prep methods, but the finished product won’t look as good as it can without a proper rinse. Take your time when going over the house to clean every spot you can!
