Using a pressure washer around your home is a great way to keep the area clean. However, if you use the pressure cleaner incorrectly, this could lead to damage and costly repairs. Thus, when it comes to pressure cleaning Gold Coast, there are some horrible mistakes you’ll want to avoid.
Mistake #1: Using Too Much Pressure
Probably the most common mistake that people make when using a pressure washer is using too much pressure. If dealing with caked-on dirt and grime, you may think that more pressure will make it easier to remove. The truth is that too much pressure could punch holes into the side of your house, etch your driveway or splinter the wood on your deck.
If you’re hoping to avoid damage to your property, then don’t use too much pressure to clean the various surfaces. You also need to make sure you are standing far enough away from the surface to clean it but not damage it.
Mistake #2: Not Protecting the Surrounding Area
When cleaning outside surfaces, both the water pressure and the cleaning solution can impact the surrounding vegetation. To keep your yard and plants from being torn up or killed by the chemicals, you need to protect them.
Often, this just requires putting a tarp over your plants. You might also consider wetting them down before you start the cleaning process. This can reduce the chances of the cleaning solution clinging to their leaves. You can also rinse them again when you’re done.
Mistake #3: Washing the Wrong Surfaces
Not every surface around your home can be cleaned with a power washer — especially painted surfaces. It’s advised that you avoid cleaning all painted surfaces with a power washer, but in particular avoiding painted surfaces that have been exposed to the sun for extended periods of time or are old.
Other surfaces that shouldn’t be cleaned with a power washer include those that are prone to mold growth. This includes certain fabrics and drywall. Since these may not be able to dry before mold starts to grow, it’s best to avoid washing them with a power washer.
Mistake #4: Not Allowing Surfaces to Dry Completely
Speaking of drying time, after using a power washer, you need to make sure that the surface you cleaned has plenty of time to dry. This is especially true if you plan on painting, sealing or staining the surface after it’s been cleaned.
On average, you should wait two days before applying sealer, stain or paint. This will ensure that the item looks as good as possible for as long as possible, as well as ensures that the paint, stain or sealer can stick to the surface.
Mistake #5: Using Only Water
Using a cleaning solution in your power washer means you won’t have to do this task as often. If you only use water, the cleaning won’t last as long. In addition, the water can spread mold spores over the surface, which increases the chances of this item growing on the side of your home or deck. If you use a cleaning solution, you won’t have to worry as much about this issue.
Mistake #6: Using Improper Cleaning Techniques
Using the right cleaning technique will ensure that you are hiding where you start and stop each stroke. The correct way to do this is to overlap the previous sweep when you start your next sweep.
Mistake #7: Not Having a Plan
If you don’t have a plan in place when it comes to power washing the exterior of your home, then you’ll make more work for yourself. It’s advised that you start from the top of your house and work your way down. Since the cleaning solution, water and dirt will run downward, you’ll be able to save yourself a lot of time and effort if you start with your roof and end with your driveway.
The last thing you’ll want to clean is your windows. The dirt, debris, and water spray from everything you clean will stick to this surface. If you wait to clean these last, you’ll be able to take care of the grime and get rid of water spots so that your windows sparkle.
Knowing how to use your pressure washer can save you from making mistakes. Not only does this clean and protect your property, but it also reduces your stress and frustration.
About The Author
Jim Pullman
Jim Pulman has extensive knowledge and experience in Home Building, Construction, and Design. He writes articles in his free time and partners with content creators to share his expertise with the online community. He is also passionate about automobiles.
