Pressure washing is the methodic use of a machined hose that sprays water at a very high pressure. This high-pressure tool is used to clean dirt, grime, mold, algae, and certain stains from surfaces on the outside of your home. Pressure washing can save time and money when it comes to renovations or home improvement! A pressure washer uses 80% less water and has 50% more power than a standard garden hose, making for the perfect clean up device.
However, since this tool is a powerful one, it should be handled with care; or better yet, left to a professional. Trotter Roofing and Gutters cares about your home. So, we want to make sure you know all the rights and wrongs of handling a pressure washer.
What's Right
1. Preparation is Key
Trotter Roofing and Gutters first determines whether or not the surface that is getting cleaned can withstand the power of a pressure wash. Once the surface is deemed safe for pressure washing, we make sure that we have sufficient water flow to the pressure washing tool, and that all connections and accessories are properly secured.
2. Start Off Slow
We never start out at full pressure or too close to the surface. It's important to ease into the process and ensure that the pressure washer is not too close or that the water is too strong and will damage the surface we are cleaning.
3. Master the Technique
Some clean ups require assistance from detergents or soaps. When using these products, we have to make certain that all the cleanser has been fully removed from the surface using specialized techniques and sweeping motions. This prevents the surface from getting runoff stains or collecting other unwanted substances. Mastering these pressure washing techniques is essential to a seamlessly clean surface.
What's Wrong
1. Assuming its Power
The worst thing anybody can do when handling a new tool is underestimating the tool's force and power. It's way better to be prepared and keep safe than to get yourself hurt. Trotter Roofing and Gutter's team is trained to use proper safety methods when handling these powerful machines
2. Using the Same Accessory for Every Job
Each cleaning job has separate needs. The size, shape, and intensity of the surface stain can determine which nozzle or accessory should be used. Using the proper accessory makes for a more efficient, less wasteful pressure washing project.
3. Pressure Washing Every Surface
Like we mentioned previously, not every surface is prepared to handle the incredible power that the pressure washer provides. There are certain surfaces, paints, or materials that can be severely damaged during the process of pressure washing, no matter how delicate the tool handler is. For instance, you would never want to pressure wash your vehicle. As the intense water pressure could chip and scratch the expensive car paint.
As we discussed, pressure washing is great for improving the appearance of the outside of your home. It can even help dispel nasty molds and algae, which can seep into the interior. However, there is still a certain set of rules that must be followed when using any power tool.
Trotter Roofing and Gutter's has trained professionals that use proper methods that keep your home both safe and clean! Make sure to give us a call if you're thinking about pressure washing or doing any of our other home improvement services.