Pressure Washing Summerville SC can remove a wide variety of contaminants and boost your curb appeal. But the process can be dangerous and damage surfaces if not done properly.
Relocate or cover objects that could get sprayed or damaged, including plants, patio furniture, and awnings. Shut off exterior lights and electric outlets to prevent electrocution.
Pressure washing can blast away dirt, grime, mildew, and even some paint stains. It’s important to note that pressure washing requires a fair amount of focus and good technique to avoid serious damage to surfaces, structures, or windows.
You’ll need to carefully plan your cleaning project, assemble the necessary materials and tools, wear protective gear, and prepare your equipment for use. You’ll also need to consider the appropriate psi and water rotation for your surface. If you’re uncertain, hire a professional who can do an expert evaluation and recommend the right settings. You’ll want to choose a detergent designed for pressure washing (follow the manufacturer’s instructions). You can use a rotating brush or sponge for stubborn stains.
For outdoor surfaces, you’ll need a gas or electric power washer that’s rated for residential use and has a high psi rating. It should also have a high GPM (gallons per minute) rate to clean large areas quickly. You can find power washers at hardware stores and home improvement centers. They can range from handheld models to carts equipped with a reel to hold the hose and detergent. You can even get attachments that control the nozzle’s width and produce different motions.
If you’re washing a concrete or brick surface, make sure the nozzle is positioned at least 5 feet away from the surface. The water pressure can damage the surface and leave behind deep grooves or cracks that could become breeding grounds for mold. You should also avoid pressure washing shingles, soft woods, or vinyl siding, as this can cause serious damage to the surfaces. If you’re planning to refinish or repaint the area, wait for it to fully dry after pressure washing. It’s also a good idea to avoid washing surfaces painted with lead-based paint, as this can release hazardous particles into the air and cause health problems for you and your family. For your safety, don’t forget to wear eye protection and close-toed shoes. It’s a good idea to keep your kids and pets out of the way as well. The powerful spray of the hose can injure them or send objects flying.
Water
Unlike soap and water, power washing uses pressurized water that can strip dirt, mold, mildew, moss, oil and grease off surfaces. It can also clean many different types of outdoor materials like concrete, brick and wood. This is much faster than scrubbing away grime with a brush and hose and more effective at removing pollutants that have built up over time.
The water pressure washing process is so effective that it can even knock off old paint without damaging the surface beneath. It is the perfect cleaning method for exterior walls, decking, patios, driveways, windows and other exterior areas of your home or business.
Pressure washers can use cold or hot water and can adjust their pressure to different surfaces. For example, a surface cleaner attachment can be attached to the end of the wand. This sprays out a circular area of water which can be directed onto delicate areas or hard-to-reach spots. This helps to prevent over-spraying and minimize the risk of damage.
If you are cleaning a tougher job that requires more heat, hot water pressure washing is the way to go. These units use a burner powered by gas or electricity to heat the water before it is sprayed on surfaces. This combination of heat, pressure and specialized detergents breaks down and dissolves grease and oils on surfaces.
There are also different nozzles that can be used to target specific areas and hard-to-reach spots. A 0 degree nozzle is ideal for cleaning gutters, patio furniture and grills while an angle nozzle is best for surfaces that are above ground or harder to reach.
Pressure washing is an excellent way to increase the curb appeal of your home or business. Dirt, mildew, algae, moss and oil can all build up over time to cause discoloration and cracking of your exterior surfaces. A regular pressure washing treatment can help you avoid the expense of a full repainting job. It can also make a commercial building or property look spotless and new again. This is especially important if your business is customer-facing, as a dirty building can give the impression of a poor management team and a dirty, uncaring company.
Pressure
When used correctly, the power of a pressure washer can be used to quickly and effectively remove built up dirt, mold, mildew, algae, oil or other contaminants from concrete, brick, vinyl siding, Trex decking, wood railings, outdoor furniture, and driveways. A professional can help evaluate the specific needs of each surface and determine what psi (pounds per square inch) and water flow (gallons per minute) is best.
A pressure washer uses a water pump to create high-pressure spray that’s then released through a hose and directed at the surface you want cleaned. The hose has different attachments, allowing you to control the direction and strength of the spray. There are also nozzles that can be added to the hose that fortify the spray with detergent to clean stubborn or stuck on materials. The nozzles also have different angles for removing certain stains, and they can be adjusted to restrict or loosen the pressure.
Using a power washer to remove built up dirt, mold, and mildew is a great way to brighten up the exterior of your home or business. A quick cleaning can make your curb appeal look new again and help you avoid costly exterior painting or restoration projects in the future.
If you’re planning on renting a pressure washer or doing the work yourself, it’s important to follow safety precautions to protect yourself and others. Close windows, cover or shield exterior outlets and light fixtures, and use a tarp to keep spray from getting in any openings or on electrical equipment. Wear close-toed shoes and pants to protect your feet and lower legs from accidental pressurized spray that could sting or break skin. Start by cleaning higher surfaces first (railings, patio umbrellas, etc) before moving to lower ones like patios and decks.
While it’s possible to rent a pressure washer and try it yourself, it’s usually recommended that you have professionals do the job for you. They know the proper psi and water rotation to protect surfaces from damage, and they’ll know which cleaning products are safe to use on your home or business. They can also advise you on what repairs are necessary to get your building back in good shape.
Safety
Pressure washing is a dangerous activity, especially when done incorrectly. Not only does it cause physical injuries, such as eye injuries, but it can also lead to respiratory problems and even long-term health issues like lung diseases. That is why it’s essential to follow proper safety practices and use the right equipment for every cleaning job.
The most important step is to read and understand the manufacturer’s owner manual. This will help you to understand the different settings on the machine and how they can affect the power of the water stream. It will also give you tips on how to operate it safely. It’s important to know how the power of the water spray can damage surfaces, including delicate items such as windows and vinyl siding.
Whenever you are using a pressure washer, you should keep the nozzle at least 12-inches away from any surface. This will prevent the stream from penetrating surfaces and causing serious injury.
You should also be mindful of where you are pointing the nozzle. Never point it at your body or face. The force of the water can cause serious injuries, such as lacerations and puncture wounds. It’s also a good idea to wear gloves when operating a pressure washer, especially if you are planning on touching any dirty or rusty surfaces. This will protect your hands from scrapes and cuts.
Finally, you should always rinse the surface after pressure washing. This will remove any detergents or chemicals that could cause etching or corrosion over time. It will also help to prevent chemical runoff into the soil. This can harm the environment and potentially kill any plants or animals that come into contact with it.
It’s also a good idea to use eco-friendly cleaners when pressure washing. These cleaners are safer for your skin and respiratory system than standard household cleaners, which can be harmful to both. They are also biodegradable, so they won’t contaminate the soil or cause any environmental damage.
Whether you are doing your own power washing or hiring a professional, it’s essential to stay up to date on the latest safety information regarding pressure washing. By staying informed about potential physical injuries, eye hazards, and inhalation risks, you can make conscious decisions that reduce these risks significantly.