6 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Pressure Washing

The warmer weather is the best time to spruce up the outside, and one of the best ways to do that is through using a pressure washer to clean the outside of your home. But there are some mistakes that a lot of people make when they are using a pressure washer, especially when they are not used to using a pressure washer. Below are some mistakes that you should avoid making when you are using a pressure washer.

1. Not letting the soap soak

If you’re using a detergent with your pressure washer to clean stains that are difficult, make sure that you’re letting it soak in for 3 to 5 minutes before you rinse it. Detergent needs time so that it attaches to stains and then lifts it away before you rinse it.

2. Not using consistent pressure

Once you have chosen your pressure washer and the attachments that are best for the project, make sure that you’re keeping your nozzle perpendicular when you’re cleaning your surface, and make sure the motion is steady so that you don’t have zebra striping. This is an effect that’s caused when you apply inconsistent pressure. Also, make sure that you’re always following the proper instructions when it comes to safety.

3. Not using proper techniques for power washing

Be sure that you’re masking stops and starts of the sweeps by overlapping your previous sweep with the beginning of your new sweep. This way no one will know where one stops and the next one begins.

4. Not leaving ample drying time

Once you have pressure washed a wooden surface like a deck, railing, or fence, allow it to dry two days and then seal it using a sealer preservative, paint or stain based on the directions from the manufacturer. This will help the surface look newer for longer.

5. Not using the correct attachments for the job

When you want to clean quickly, use a turbo nozzle or a surface cleaner that rotates. These are two accessories that are really effective and also worth the extra money.

6. Not using a stabilizer for your fuel and letting your gas go bad

One of the most common problems when you start power equipment for the outside is stale gas. You can avoid this by using fuel stabilizer inside your gas tank. Make sure you put your stabilizer in right after filling up the gas can.

These are some of the mistakes that many people make when it comes to using a power washer. When you want your outdoors to look great for picnics and barbecues, power washing is the best way that you can do it. You just want to make sure that you are doing it the right way. Remember these mistakes and refer to them when you are power washing your outdoor space. Then you will have a better chance of avoiding making them when you are using your power washer.

About Naples Pressure Washing & Sealing

Doron Nudel is the owner of Naples Pressure Washing, LLC. He’s worked as an exterior cleaning specialist in Naples, FL since 2008. Servicing many areas of Southwest Florida including Naples, Bonita Springs, Estero, and Marco Island.