Power washing is a popular way to refresh the exterior of your home and increase its curb appeal. However, before you start blasting away with a pressure washer, there are a few things you should consider to ensure the job is done safely and effectively.
Assess the Condition of Your Home
The first thing you should do before power washing your home is to assess its condition. Take a close look at the siding, brick, stucco, or any other exterior material that makes up your home. Look for signs of damage, such as cracks, chips, or peeling paint. Power washing can worsen these issues, causing more damage and even water infiltration. In some cases, power washing can even strip away the protective coatings on certain types of siding.
If you do find damage or other issues, it's best to address them before power washing. For example, you may need to repair or replace damaged siding or paint surfaces that are peeling. This will not only prevent further damage but also help your home look its best after it's been cleaned.
Choose the Right Pressure Washer and Nozzle
The pressure washer you use for power washing will play a big role in the effectiveness and safety of the job. A pressure washer with too much pressure or the wrong nozzle can damage your home or even cause injury. On the other hand, a pressure washer with too little pressure may not clean your home thoroughly.
When choosing a pressure washer, look for one with a PSI (pounds per square inch) rating that is appropriate for your home's exterior material. For example, vinyl siding can typically handle a PSI of 1300-1600, while brick can handle a higher PSI of 2000-3000. You'll also want to choose the right nozzle for the job. Nozzles are rated by the degree of spray they provide, with 0-degree nozzles providing a pinpoint spray and 40-degree nozzles providing a wide fan spray.
Consider Hiring a Professional
While power washing your home can be a DIY project, it's not for everyone. If you don't have experience with pressure washing or don't have the right equipment, it may be best to hire a professional. Professional power washing companies have the experience and knowledge to clean your home safely and effectively, without causing damage. They also have access to professional-grade equipment and cleaning solutions that can provide a deeper clean than what you can achieve with a consumer-grade pressure washer.
Cost
The cost of power washing your home will vary depending on factors such as the size of your home, the extent of the cleaning needed, and whether you hire a professional or do it yourself. On average, DIY power washing can cost between $100 and $300, while hiring a professional can cost between $300 and $500 or more.
Power washing your home can be a great way to refresh its exterior and boost its curb appeal. However, before you start, make sure to assess the condition of your home, choose the right pressure washer and nozzle, and consider hiring a professional. By taking these steps, you'll ensure that your home is cleaned safely and effectively, without causing damage or injury.
comments