Power Washing Siding – Safety Measures That Should Be Taken Into Consideration
Whether your home has wood, stucco or brick siding, regular power washing will keep it looking new and increase its longevity. In addition, a clean exterior prevents mildew and other unsightly growth from developing on your house. Before you get started, read these tips for power washing siding:
Preparation
Most types of siding can withstand pressure washing, but the type of cleaning solution used and the amount of water pressure needed differs depending on the material. Painted clapboard and modern wood shingle siding can usually be washed with 1,200 to 1,500-psi models, while brick and other rugged, unpainted materials require machines rated for 2,500 to 3,000-psi.
To avoid damaging the wood, start with the lowest power setting and use a 25- to 30-degree wider spray nozzle. Hold the nozzle a few feet away from the surface to begin with and then gradually move closer as you get familiar with how much force is required to blast away stubborn dirt, mildew or algae buildup.
To kill discolored mildew, mix a solution of one part bleach to 10 parts water and apply it with a sponge. Rinse thoroughly. Continue scrubbing and spraying until each section of the house is clean. Rinsing should be done from the top down to prevent dirty water splatter from running over the cleaned areas.
Safety
A pressure washer is a great tool for removing mildew, soot, mold and moss that can develop on the exterior of your home. But before you start blasting away dirt and grime, there are a few important safety measures that should be taken into consideration.
First, make sure that you have the proper equipment. You can purchase a gas or electric powered pressure washer at most big-box department stores, hardware stores or online. Look for a model that is equipped with safety features, including quick-release triggers, warning labels and ground-fault circuit interrupters.
Next, choose a day that is clear of rain and low wind. Also, make sure that you turn off any electrical outlets on the outside of your house and that you cover or trim any light fixtures, eaves and/or windows with plastic and tape to avoid damage. Finally, choose a nozzle and pressure level that is appropriate for your vinyl siding. Always begin at a low setting and work your way up, as you do not want to risk damaging your siding with too much power.
Equipment
Power washing is a great way to get your house siding looking new again. It also removes harmful build-up that can damage your home over time. However, it’s important to use proper technique to avoid damaging your home and yourself. This includes properly preparing the work area, using the right equipment and knowing how much pressure to use.
If you don’t, you may end up damaging your vinyl or other exterior surfaces like shingles and cedar shakes. You can also spray water into gaps where the siding runs and into doors or windows causing damage to these areas as well as creating a breeding ground for mold.
Cleaning
Whether the house siding is vinyl, aluminum or modern wood clapboard it benefits from being cleaned with a power washer at least once a year. This will remove grit, dirt, mildew and mold and will help prepare the exterior of the house for a fresh coat of paint.
Before starting, make sure the power washer is set to a low pressure and start at a distance to avoid spraying water behind the siding which could lead to future problems such as mold growth. It’s also a good idea to close any doors and windows in the area that you will be working on and to tape plastic over any external electrical outlets.
Next, apply the cleaning solution using a brush or spray nozzle and work in small sections. Be sure to rinse each section after applying soap and allow the area to dry. This will prevent streaking of the clean surface. Depending on the cleaning concentrate used it may take anywhere from five to ten minutes for it to dissolve the dirt and grime.
Moore’s Pressure Washing
https://www.google.com/maps?cid=15807426333973800125
(865) 205-2751
https://moorespressurewash.com/
