Power washing is an effective way to clean your house’s exterior surfaces, including siding, decks, and driveways. However, it requires a bit of preparation and know-how to get it done safely and effectively. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of power washing your house and answer some common questions about the process.
What You’ll Need
Before you start power washing your house, you’ll need to gather a few supplies:
- A pressure washer
- A garden hose
- A spray nozzle
- A cleaning solution (optional)
- Safety goggles
- Gloves
Preparing Your House for Power Washing
Before you start power washing your house, you’ll need to prepare the area:
- Remove any outdoor furniture or decorations
- Cover any electrical outlets or fixtures with plastic sheeting
- Trim any bushes or plants that are close to the house
It’s also a good idea to wet the surrounding plants and grass before you start power washing to protect them from the cleaning solution.
Using a Pressure Washer Safely
When using a pressure washer, it’s important to follow some basic safety guidelines:
- Wear safety goggles and gloves
- Never point the spray nozzle at yourself or anyone else
- Start with the lowest pressure setting and work your way up
- Keep the spray nozzle at least 6 inches away from the surface you’re cleaning
- Don’t use a ladder when power washing
Power Washing Your House
Now that you’re prepared and you know how to use a pressure washer safely, it’s time to start cleaning your house:
- Connect your garden hose to the pressure washer
- Add your cleaning solution to the pressure washer (if you’re using one)
- Turn on the pressure washer and test the pressure on a small, inconspicuous area
- Work from the top of the house down, using broad, sweeping strokes
- Rinse the area thoroughly with your garden hose
- Move on to the next section of the house and repeat the process
When you’re finished power washing your house, turn off the pressure washer and disconnect the garden hose. Rinse the pressure washer thoroughly with clean water and store it in a safe, dry place.
FAQs About Power Washing Your House
Can you power wash a painted house?
Yes, you can power wash a painted house, but you need to be careful not to damage the paint. Use the lowest pressure setting possible and avoid getting too close to the surface you’re cleaning.
Can you power wash a brick house?
Yes, you can power wash a brick house, but you need to be careful not to damage the mortar between the bricks. Use the lowest pressure setting possible and avoid getting too close to the surface you’re cleaning.
Do you need a special cleaning solution for power washing?
No, you don’t need a special cleaning solution for power washing, but using one can make the cleaning process more effective. You can use a commercial cleaning solution or make your own by mixing water, bleach, and dish soap.
Conclusion
Power washing your house can be a great way to give it a fresh, clean look, but it’s important to do it safely and effectively. By following these steps and guidelines, you can power wash your house with confidence and get great results.