Whether it’s a sidewalk, patio or home exterior, periodically cleaning surfaces with a pressure washer is necessary to keep them looking good. Using the right nozzle, the spray can be directed at difficult-to-reach areas.
Cleaning can also prevent the growth of destructive mold, mildew and moss. It’s also a good step to take before painting or sealing a surface.
Safety
When a person uses a pressure washer, the machine needs to be de-energized by shutting off the power, locking out the pump and uncoupling any hoses. It’s also important to keep in mind that it can take just over 1,000 psi of water pressure to penetrate the skin, so individuals should wear gloves and protective clothing while operating a pressure washing machine.
Pressure washing can remove moss, mildew, grime and dried dirt from hard-to-reach spaces like corners and under eaves, improving the appearance of a home or commercial building. In some cases, this can help to increase a property’s value when it comes time to sell.
It can also reduce slip and fall risks by removing contaminants that can cause people to lose their footing on walkways. Mold, mildew, deep dirt and grease are all hazards to walkers and can lead to serious injuries. Regular pressure washing of sidewalks and footpaths can help to prevent these accidents from occurring in the first place.
Efficiency
Unlike traditional cleaning methods that use harmful chemicals, a pressure wash uses water to blast away contaminants. The high-powered jets of water can remove mud, dust, dirt, grime, loose paint, moss, mildew and other residue from surfaces in a fraction of the time it would take to manually scrub them clean.
Aside from enhancing the appearance of commercial buildings, regular pressure washing prevents mold and mildew growth that can affect the health and safety of building occupants. It also helps extend the lifespan of exterior materials and building structures.
Over time, commercial property owners will see a decrease in the value of their buildings if they allow dirt and debris to build up. Pressure washing is a cost-effective way to improve the look of your property and boost its value. The process requires little to no chemicals and can be done quickly and effectively with a gas-powered machine that produces up to 3000 PSI. Choosing a machine with a higher GPM (gallons per minute) rating will enable you to tackle larger projects and get stuck-on gunk moving faster once the force of the water breaks it loose.
Removing Stains
A pressure washer is a powerful tool, capable of blasting away dirt and grime. It’s also a great choice when it comes to removing stubborn, stuck-on stains from surfaces like driveways, decks and roofs.
A good wash lifts dirt, moss, mildew and other substances from surfaces, leaving them fresh and ready for new paint or a renovation project. It’s important to take caution when using a power washer, however, as improper use can damage surfaces and cause dangerous chemical leaks.
Cleaning a building or outdoor items with a pressure washer saves time and effort compared to manual methods. And it’s much less expensive than repairing the damage caused by dirt and grime build-up over time. Remember, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
Preventing Damage
Besides improving your building’s curb appeal, regular pressure washing can help prevent damage to your surfaces. Dirt, grime, and moss build up can actually eat away at paint, concrete sealant, and even wood. A good cleaning blasts them away before they can do any serious harm.
A professional knows how to set the nozzle to the right setting for each surface, and they know how much pressure is needed to tackle any type of job. For example, if you’re working on wood or painted surfaces, they may opt for a “soft wash” with less pressure to avoid damage.
The nozzle’s hole size and spray angle determine psi and gpm. A wider nozzle allows more pressure, while a smaller nozzle reduces the psi. The nozzle is also moved further back from the surface to decrease the force of the water. This helps to prevent water from causing pitting on stones, splintering of wood, and damage to gutters and soffits.