How to Pressure Wash a House: 8 Steps
Pressure washing your house is an effective way to maintain the appearance and value of your home. It removes dirt, grime, and mold buildup that can lead to long-term damage to your house’s exterior. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to pressure wash a house.
1.Prepare Your Equipment:
Rent or purchase a pressure washer with an appropriate PSI (pounds per square inch) rating for your house’s siding material. Also, make sure you have a hose that’s long enough to reach all areas of your home, a ladder if needed, and protective gear like gloves and safety goggles.
2.Choose the Right Cleaner:
Select a suitable detergent or cleaning solution explicitly designed for pressure washing. Ensure the cleaner is safe to use on your home’s exterior material and effective in removing dirt, grime, and mold.
3.Protect Surroundings:
Cover plants, bushes, outdoor furniture, and other items near your home with tarps or plastic sheets to shield them from potential damage by high-pressure water or cleaning solution.
4.Set Up the Pressure Washer:
Attach the water hose to the pressure washer and connect it to an outdoor water source. Add the cleaning solution to the detergent tank according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5.Apply the Cleaning Solution:
Begin by spraying the cleaning solution onto a small section of your house’s exterior using a low-pressure setting or soap application nozzle. Start from the bottom of the house working upward to avoid streaks.
6.Scrub If Necessary:
For stubborn dirt or stains, use a soft-bristle brush to gently scrub the area while applying more cleaning solution as needed.
7.Rinse Thoroughly:
Once you’ve finished applying the cleaning solution, switch the nozzle on your pressure washer for high-pressure rinsing mode. Rinse from top-to-bottom in smooth motions, making sure not to focus on one area for too long to avoid damaging your siding.
8.Check Your Work:
After you’ve finished washing the entire house, allow it to dry for a few hours. Inspect the exterior for any missed spots or areas that may require a second pass.
Pressure washing your house can be an inexpensive and efficient way to improve its appearance and longevity. By following these steps, you’ll have a clean, well-maintained home that looks as good as new.