If you are like most homeowners, you might wonder what surfaces you can power wash.
Power washing, sometimes called pressure washing, is the most effective cleaning of exterior surfaces, from concrete walkways to the siding on your home. While power and pressure washing are slightly different (power washers use heat and pressure), most homeowners utilize exterior cleaning to remove organic build-up in their homes.
The pressurized water combined with heat (power wash) elements can swiftly remove dirt, grime, mold, mildew, and other stubborn contaminants in your home. However, not all surfaces can withstand the forceful pressure of a power washer without sustaining damage – like your shingles.
Today, the team here at Winston-Salem Power Washing will explain in this article the safe surfaces to power wash and discuss the surfaces you need to avoid power washing.
5 Surfaces Safe to Pressure Wash & 1 To Avoid:
What can you power wash? Most homeowners think the exterior walls of their home and things like their patio can withstand just about any pressure. However, that is simply not the case.
In fact, one power-washing expert puts it this way:
“Using a pressure washer to clean your home requires a pro. The high-pressure spray can cause damage to some surfaces and chip away paint. This is why always use a professional for any pressure washing needs.”
So now that you know your high-pressure cleaning might be limited, here are the surfaces suitable for pressure and/or power washing:
1. Concrete Surfaces:
Concrete surfaces are the perfect candidates for power washing and pressure. Patios, driveways, sidewalks, and even concrete walls can benefit from the high-pressure water stream. While most outdoor surfaces in a home are not concrete, power washing can still effectively remove accumulated dirt, oil stains, tire marks, and moss growth, restoring the appearance and integrity of the concrete.
Cement driveways and walkways are commonly pressure washed and the cleaning power comes from the appropriate pressure and the proper surfactants.
When power washing concrete surfaces, it’s essential to use the appropriate nozzle and maintain a suitable distance to prevent surface etching or chipping. A wide-angle nozzle and a distance of about 8-12 inches from the surface are recommended.
➡️ Got a walkway or driveway that needs power washing? Contact Winston-Salem Power Washing today!
2. Brick and Stone Surfaces:
Brick and stone surfaces are generally durable and can withstand the pressure of power washing.
Power washing can effectively clean away years of accumulated grime and dirt from these surfaces, revealing their natural beauty. However, it is crucial to exercise caution when cleaning softer stone surfaces like limestone or sandstone. The forceful pressure could erode the surface and lead to irreversible damage.
Testing a small inconspicuous area before power-washing the entire surface is best. Also, doing you due diligence prior to using a pressure washer on a brick is a smart move. You can look up the appropriate PSI settings and dwell times.
3. Wood Surfaces (Decks & Fences):
Got a wooden deck, fence, or perhaps even a wood outdoor patio furniture set? If so, power washing is necessary every few years to keep your surfaces clean and thriving.
Power washing can be used on certain wood surfaces but requires extra care and a delicate touch. Wood decks, fences, and outdoor furniture can be effectively cleaned with a lower-pressure power washer. A pressure washer with a PSI (pounds per square inch) rating of around 1200 to 1500 is generally safe for wood surfaces.
Before power washing wood, ensure that the surface is in good condition and that there are no loose boards or splinters that the pressure could dislodge. Keep the nozzle moving at all times to avoid concentrated pressure in one area, which could cause damage.
Keep in mind if you are using pressure washers to clean a large fence section, you will want to stain the fence after.
4. Vinyl Siding & Fences:
Chances are your home has vinyl siding or perhaps you have a vinyl fence. Either way, they are safe to power wash since vinyl can withstand pressurized water.
Vinyl siding is a popular exterior covering due to its low maintenance requirements. Power washing is a suitable method for cleaning vinyl siding, as it can effectively remove dirt, pollen, and mildew that accumulate over time.
However, it’s crucial to be mindful of the pressure used. Too much force can crack or loosen the siding panels, leading to expensive repairs. A lower-pressure setting and a wider nozzle will ensure a thorough yet safe cleaning process. In most cases, homeowners will use a soft-wash method to clean their siding.
5. Metal Surfaces:
Metal surfaces, such as aluminum or steel siding, gutters, and metal fences, can be effectively cleaned using a power washer. The high-pressure water stream can remove dirt, oxidation, and even loose paint, prepping the surface for restoration.
When power washing metal surfaces, be cautious around joints and seams, as excessive pressure may cause water to seep into these areas and lead to rusting. Additionally, if you power wash a painted metal surface, avoid getting too close to prevent stripping off the paint.
Bonus: Some Patio Furniture & Garbage Cans
Let’s admit it – trashcans can get really funky smelling. So blasting one with a power washer won’t cause much harm. On the other hand, your patio furniture can withstand pressure washing in most cases but it is best always to do a little research prior.
Sometimes, using the soft wash approach might be ideal for your patio furniture. Unlike a pressure cleaner, soft washing consists of soaps and surfactants doing the bulk of the heavy cleaning.
What to Never Pressure Wash:
There are surfaces never to pressure wash or power wash. Below are the two we highly recommend avoiding hitting with pressurized water!
1. Never Power Wash Asphalt Roofs:
Roof cleaning is an essential maintenance task, and power washing can effectively remove debris, moss, and algae from asphalt roofs. However, this is a specialized task that should be approached with caution.
For asphalt roofs, it’s recommended to use a soft wash system instead of a high-pressure power washer. Soft washing involves using a low-pressure nozzle and specialized cleaning solutions to clean the roof safely without causing damage.
The last thing you want to do is damage your roof to the extent that you need a roof replacement! Contact us below to learn how we can help with your roof soft washing needs!
2. Brand New Concrete
New concrete should never be exposed to pressure washing. Unless you want to remove the top layer of the concrete and potentially cause damage to the surface, it is widely considered best practice to hold off on using a pressure washer on your concrete.
Most companies will use surfactants in conjunction with pressure washing on a low setting to clean your new concrete!
The Verdict on Power Washing Surfaces –
Here are Winston-Salem Power Washing Pros. We believe that you need applied knowledge for the best results. While power washing is a powerful cleaning technique that can really make the outside of your home look great, it is important to remember that there are always pros and cons.
A professional like the Winston-Salem Power Washing team led by Mark Mitchell will know which surfaces are safe for power washing and how to use the appropriate techniques and equipment to avoid causing damage.
Remember, concrete, brick, stone, vinyl siding, metal, and certain wood surfaces can all benefit from power washing responsibly but asphalt roofs and new concrete should always be avoided.
Frequently Asked Power Washing Questions:
1. Is power washing safe for all surfaces?
Power washing is generally safe for many surfaces, such as concrete, brick, stone, and metal. However, it may not be suitable for delicate surfaces like softwood, older or damaged paint, or fragile materials like stucco or certain types of siding.
New concrete and asphalt shingle roofing should NEVER be pressure or power washed. Before power washing any surface, assessing its condition and conducting a test spot in an inconspicuous area is essential to ensure the pressure won’t cause damage. Also, conducting research like you are before ever using a pressure washer to clean a surface is smart!
2. Can I use bleach or other chemicals with a power washer?
Yes, you can use certain chemicals in combination with a power washer to enhance cleaning effectiveness. In fact, in most cases, the soaps and diluted bleach do most of the cleaning for exterior walls and siding.
However, exercising caution and following the manufacturer’s guidelines is crucial. Bleach, for example, can be effective in removing mold and mildew, but it must be used in the right concentration and should not be mixed with other cleaning agents to avoid dangerous chemical reactions. Always wear protective gear when handling chemicals, and avoid using them on plants, as they can be harmful.
A soft wash is a safer approach that most professional power washers use!
How often should I power wash my home’s exterior?
The answer to the “How often should I power wash my home question” always depends. The frequency of power washing your home’s exterior depends on various factors, including the climate, surrounding vegetation, and the level of dirt and grime accumulation. In North Carolina, for example, it might be as frequent as every year or as less frequent as every 4-5 years. The orientation of your home can also be a key factor.
As a general guideline, most homes can use power washing once a year to remove built-up dirt, mold, and mildew. However, if you live in an area with a humid climate or near trees, you may need to clean more frequently to prevent organic growth on surfaces.
One option is to use a pressure washer to softly clean the sides of your home exteriors with a little siding cleaner.
Can I power wash my own roof, or should I hire a professional?
First, you should NEVER power wash a roof. Or use a pressure washer, for that matter. Asphalt shingle roofing requires a soft wash. Professional roof cleaners typically use a soft wash system, which combines low-pressure washing with specialized cleaning solutions to safely clean the roof without causing damage.
Remember, DIY power washing on a roof can be risky and might lead to water intrusion, dislodging of shingles, or voiding of roofing warranties.
