Pressure washing is an effective way to clean and refresh the exterior surfaces of your home. But before getting started, it’s essential to prepare properly to ensure a safe and efficient cleaning. In this guide, we take you through all the steps to prepare your house for pressure washing.
10 Tips to How to Prepare House for Pressure Washing
1. Safety First: Gather Your Gear
Before you start pressure cleaning, make sure you have the necessary safety equipment and tools:
- Safety goggles
- Ear protection
- Gloves
- Waterproof, non-slip boots
- Long sleeve shirt and pants
- Mask (particularly when working with chemicals)
2. Inspect Your Home
Carefully inspect your home’s exterior. Look for any signs of damage, loose siding, or vulnerable areas. Note any issues that may need to be addressed before pressure washing, such as:
- Cracked or loose mortar
- Damaged or missing shingles
- Rotted wood
- Loose or damaged siding
3. Remove Debris & Obstacles
To ensure nothing gets damaged or no spots are missed, clear your work area of any obstacles or debris. This includes:
- Removing outdoor furniture and decorations
- Sweeping away leaves, dirt, and cobwebs
- Trimming overhanging branches or bushes that could interfere
4. Cover Delicate Plants & Objects
Pressure washing can be powerful, and the high-pressure spray can damage delicate plants and objects. Protect them by:
- Covering plants with plastic sheeting or drop cloths
- Moving fragile objects away from the work area
- Covering electrical outlets and outdoor lights
5. Apply Detergent or Pre-Treatment
Depending on the surface you’re cleaning, consider applying a suitable detergent or pre-treatment to help break down organic growth, grime and stains. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and allow the product to sit for the recommended time before pressure washing.
6. Test the Pressure Washer
Before you start cleaning the entire house, test your pressure washer on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it won’t cause damage. Adjust the pressure settings as needed to find the right balance between effectiveness and safety for your specific surfaces.
7. Maintain the Correct Distance
When using a pressure washer, maintaining the right distance from the surface is crucial. Start with a distance of about 2-3 feet and adjust as needed to prevent damage. Keep the nozzle moving to avoid streaks or etching on the surface.
8. Work from Top to Bottom
Begin cleaning from the top of your house and work your way down. This prevents dirty water from running down onto clean areas. Make sure to rinse thoroughly as you go.
9. Rinse Thoroughly
After you’ve finished pressure cleaning, rinse the entire area thoroughly. This helps remove any remaining detergent and ensures a clean, streak-free finish.
10. Clean Up
Properly clean and store your equipment. Dispose of any waste materials and detergent containers according to local regulations.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your house is well-prepared for pressure washing, allowing you to achieve outstanding results while protecting your property and the environment. Remember that safety and proper equipment are key, and when in doubt, it’s always a good idea to work with a professional pressure washing company to get the best results.
Get a Free, Instant Quote for Pressure Cleaning Today
The Jet Co Pressure Cleaning Sydney specialises in all aspects of pressure washing. If you are looking for experienced professionals to handle all your pressure washing needs, contact us today!
Call us on 0492 238 169 or make an online enquiry.
