Professional pressure washing removes dirt, grime, mildew and mold buildup that destroys surfaces and eats away at paint. It is a far cheaper solution than replacing and repainting exterior home and business surfaces.
Power washing and soft washing are similar, but their techniques, pump pressure, equipment and chemicals vary. Visit Website to learn the key differences and how to choose which service is best for your property.
Over time, mold, mildew and dirt can build up and make your home or business look dirty, dingy or shabby. Regular pressure washing helps prevent the formation of these unwanted substances and keeps your property looking its best. A professional knows how to use the right amount of water pressure and a powerful detergent to effectively clean your surfaces, without causing damage or altering the surface materials.
Pressure washing is a great way to remove unsightly stains from concrete, wood and other surfaces. For example, oil stains and other contaminants can mar the appearance of driveways, sidewalks, and patios. A thorough cleaning with a high-powered pressure washer can strip these substances away, revealing the original surface beneath.
Mold and mildew can also be a problem for exterior surfaces, including vinyl siding and shingles. These substances can erode the protective oils in shingle roofs and eat through paint or vinyl siding. A spore-destroying chemical cleaner combined with high-powered pressure washing can eliminate these problematic growths and prevent them from recurring.
Powerful mildew-removing cleaners require extra care when handling, as they can etch or discolor some surfaces and if used incorrectly can damage the surrounding environment. A professional knows how to scan the environment around a project and can protect plants, shrubs and trees with plastic tarps. These materials also irritate the skin, so it is important to wear rubber gloves and old long-sleeved shirts when using them.
A professional can also recommend the proper PSI and GPM settings to clean various surfaces and substrates. Different types of surfaces react differently to high-pressure water, and a balance must be struck between the force of the blast and the volume of the water.
The downstreaming method of pressure washing uses a combination of chemical solutions and a specialized attachment to efficiently remove stubborn dirt and grime. This technique reduces the amount of chemicals needed, saves energy, and cuts down on pump wear and tear. It is also safer for the operator and the surrounding environment, as it does not rely on the force of the blast to draw in the chemical solution.
Stain Removal
Pressure washing is a powerful cleaning method that uses physics and chemistry to effectively clean surfaces. The process utilizes a high-pressure stream of water to dislodge and remove loose dirt, grime, mildew, mold, oil, grease, and other organic growth. Often, specialized detergents are used to break down stubborn materials and enhance the efficacy of the cleaning solution. The results are usually dramatic and can help maintain your home’s appearance and structural integrity.
However, the question remains whether or not pressure washing can truly remove stains. The answer is yes, but it’s important to understand the specifics of each type of stain and how the cleaning process works to tackle them.
In general, a combination of pressure washing and specialized detergents is the best way to remove most types of stains. The detergents reduce the surface tension of water and emulsify oils, making them easier to rinse away. They also work to break down other types of stains such as rust, so they are more easily removed by the water stream.
It’s worth noting that different surfaces require varying degrees of pressure and detergent concentration to remove specific stains. For example, stone and brick surfaces can be quite resistant to stains, and may need a higher water pressure in order to fully clean them. Wood surfaces, on the other hand, can be more sensitive to pressure washing, and will likely need a lower water pressure to avoid damaging them or splintering the wood.
As a result, it’s always wise to consult with a professional who can assess your needs and recommend the appropriate psi, water rotation, and cleaning solution. This will ensure that your home is cleaned thoroughly and safely, without causing any damage or contaminating surrounding vegetation. Understanding how psi and water rotation affect the cleaning process is essential for homeowners, as improper use can destroy surfaces and even kill plants. In addition, knowing how to properly use downstreaming allows you to maximize your pressure washer’s cleaning power while minimizing the risk of damage.
Deck Cleaning
While a pressure washer is a powerful tool for cleaning surfaces, it must be used with care to avoid damaging decking and other outdoor features of your home. Too much pressure can erode various materials, while harsh cleaning products can cause deterioration and kill surrounding vegetation.
A professional power washing company can quickly and efficiently clean a wood or composite deck, leaving it fresh and ready for staining or other treatment. This process eliminates the time-consuming and labor intensive task of manually scrubbing surfaces and can be an excellent choice for larger outdoor spaces.
Before cleaning, remove furniture and other items from the deck to prevent damage and dirt displacement. If necessary, a deck-cleaning solution can be applied to the surface to loosen and lift accumulated dirt and mildew. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for application and dilution. It is best to test the cleaner on a small area before proceeding. A quick-connect nozzle with a 25-degree spray angle is ideal for wood and composite decks, providing a wide coverage while minimizing impact on the material.
Start with a low pressure setting (500 psi) and gradually increase the pressure only as needed. Softwoods may require only 500-600 psi, while composite decking can tolerate up to 1200 psi without damage. When using a high-pressure washer, always keep the wand tip a few inches away from the deck surface to avoid damage.
When finished, allow adequate drying time before re-staining or refinishing. This typically takes a few days. After the deck is dry, assess it for any damage resulting from the pressure wash. Look for raised fibers, weakened spots, and splinters that may need further treatment. Moisture levels should be tested with a moisture meter and kept below 15% for best results.
After a thorough clean, refinishing the deck can enhance its appearance and extend its lifespan. A deck treated with a stain or sealant requires less maintenance than an untreated surface and provides a safe place to entertain guests and enjoy the outdoors. A professional can provide a comprehensive assessment of your deck and recommend the appropriate level of finish for a long-lasting and beautiful result.
Concrete Cleaning
Concrete surfaces like driveways, sidewalks and patios can collect a variety of contaminants over time including mold, mildew, grease, oil, tire marks and more. Keeping these concrete surfaces clean is important for both appearance and functionality. Regular cleanings by a professional and regular application of a high quality concrete cleaner can help reduce the amount of contaminants that build up on these surfaces. If you want to clean these concrete surfaces yourself, a pressure washer with a nozzle for concrete cleaning can make the job easier and faster. Before using any cleaning chemicals, it is a good idea to sweep the surface thoroughly to remove any loose dirt and debris. This will also allow the concrete to dry more quickly once the cleaning process is complete. Concrete cleaners are available for a wide range of contaminants, and it is important to select the correct one for the type of stain you are trying to remove.
For example, a water-based concrete cleaner with a degreaser can be helpful for removing oil and grease stains. A masonry cleaner is effective for removing mildew and mold, while a rust remover can be useful for treating rust stains. Once you have selected the appropriate cleaner for your concrete, apply it to the affected area and work it into the surface using a nylon brush. Allow the concrete cleaner to sit for the recommended time before rinsing it off with clean water. Be sure to use a water pressure that is appropriate for the surface you are washing and to avoid spraying any plants or flowers that may be damaged by the high-pressure water and chemicals.
Once the concrete has been cleaned, it is important to consider sealing it. This will protect the concrete from stains, sun damage, cracking and growing things, making it last longer and look better. A professional can advise you on the best option for your concrete surfaces.
A power washer is a great tool for heavy-duty cleaning and is more efficient than using a garden hose. While there are models available for rent at home, it is a much safer and easier choice to leave the cleaning to professionals who know the proper psi, water rotation and cleaning products for a variety of surfaces.