There’s a right way and a wrong way to do some things, and power washing is one of them. The goal is to clean the surface and avoid any damage– simple, right? But maybe not as easy as it sounds. Here are a few things to avoid when power washing!
- Do NOT Use High Pressure
At Peak Power Wash, our go-to method is soft wash, a low-pressure technique that safely cleans siding, masonry, and wood without sacrificing effectiveness. Less mess and less stress! Using high pressure can easily damage the surface you’re cleaning, breaking window seals or even splintering wooden surfaces. If the interlocking seal of vinyl siding is broken, water can slip inside, creating the perfect environment for mold to grow and fester. High pressure is high-risk!
- Do NOT Use Just Any Detergent
A key aspect of our soft wash technique is the right chemistry of detergents. For every stain on a surface, whether it’s mold, mildew, clay, rust, etc., there’s a detergent to help break down and lift that stain. Getting that mixture right is key in giving siding, concrete, wood, and composite surfaces a thorough cleaning. Without the right soap, the wash won’t be as effective, which can spark frustration and maybe even cause the individual to increase the water pressure in an effort to make up for the difference. But as noted above, lower pressure is definitely the better way to go. Additionally, you want to make sure your detergent is biodegradable and environmentally friendly– we always strive to use the best cleaners available that will be kind to both the surfaces we clean and the planet we live on.
- Do NOT Strip Away the Material
High pressure strikes again! No matter how tempting it might be, avoid the risk of stripping away material from the surface you’re cleaning, particularly wood. It may look like the top layer is unsalvageable, but after a new coat of stain, you’ll see things differently. If the deck or fence you’re power washing really does need to be replaced, it’s better to be safe than sorry and examine the structural integrity before going full ham on the damaging scouring.
- Do NOT Skip Preparing Wood for Stain
After a wooden deck or fence has been cleaned with correct chemistry of detergent and water pressure, there’s another step before seal or stain should be applied. A neutralizing process must be completed in order to prepare the wood, after which it needs to dry before using a contractor-grade seal or stain. If this process isn’t followed, the seal or stain is likely to fail.
- Do NOT Wait Too Long for a Cleaning
Don’t live with a grubby house or deck any longer than you need to! We recommend getting your home exterior power washed every six to twelve months, or more often if mildew or mold starts to creep in. Keep your property clean and looking as good as new with regular power washes! Just like the interior of your home, upkeep is crucial, especially if you’re getting ready to sell and want to increase curb appeal.
We’re Proud to Be Power Wash Professionals!
Don’t stress over cleaning– that’s what we’re here for! Peak Power Wash has been offering power washing services to the Carroll, Baltimore, Howard, and Frederick county areas of Maryland, as well as York and Adams counties of Pennsylvania, since 1998. We are a family-owned-and-operated business based in Westminster, Maryland that prides itself in quality workmanship and customer satisfaction above all else. If you’re ready for a power wash, give us a call at 443-686-WASH (9274) or fill out our quick online form here for a free estimate. We can’t wait to work with you!