Pressure washing is becoming a popular method for cleaning because of its effectiveness and quickness. It has the ability to scrub many surfaces clean without much effort. You may be wondering if your home is safe to pressure wash. In many cases, a good pressure wash can do beautiful things for a home’s curb appeal. You will want to be sure that the material of your home can withstand the pressure.
Wash These Surfaces Safely
The following surfaces are safe to pressure wash:
-
Brick
Brick homes, walls, and brick patios can be pressure washed safely. It is far easier to power wash these surfaces than to use a bristled brush as it is less labor-intensive.
-
Stucco
Stucco is a softer surface and is best cleaned with the right amount of pressure and a cleaning solution. If your stucco is starting to look dingy, you can absolutely power wash it!
-
Aluminum Siding
Aluminum siding is an excellent surface for pressure washing. Although you may want to use a lower setting if the surface is painted, you can use a lower setting.
-
Vinyl Siding
Some homeowners are hesitant to pressure wash vinyl siding because it seems fragile. However, despite these beliefs, vinyl is safe to wash with a pressure washer. It is wise to be cautious around damaged siding, as the water pressure can worsen any cracked or loose pieces.
-
Concrete
Perhaps the most popular pressure washing material is concrete. Sidewalks, driveways, and walls made of concrete are perfectly safe for pressurized water. In fact, pressure-washed concrete can show clear before and after results.
-
Windows
You may fear pressure washing your windows, but they are strong enough to withstand a good power wash. Use of caution should be applied to older windows, and you should check the seals to ensure they are intact, but as a general rule, windows can be washed with a pressure washer.
Use Caution When Power Washing These Surfaces
The following surfaces and items can be pressure washed, but only when extreme caution is exercised.
-
Grill
Pressure washing a grill is possible, but you may also need other materials to complete the cleaning. A wire bristled brush, and a cleaning solution are commonly used in conjunction with a pressure washer. It is vital to be sure that the solution used is rated for food prep areas.
-
Furniture
Pressure washing furniture depends on the material and pressure settings. For example, exterior wicker furniture would likely sustain damage from a pressure washer. However, other, more robust materials could sustain the water pressure.
-
Wood
Wood can be pressure washed, but it is not recommended often. Pressure washing forces water into the wood, and it can take weeks of dry weather to dry out completely. If you had plans to paint or stain the wood while there is still water present within it, you could see some problems in the future. Additionally, wood can splinter and become damaged if too much pressure is applied. Use caution if pressure washing wood.
Do Not Pressure Wash These Surfaces
-
Appliances
You should not pressure wash appliances, as paint can be removed and they can be dented.
-
Rugs and Carpets
Pressure washing rugs and carpets can easily result in damages. It is not worth the risk for most.
-
Shingle Roof
Roof shingles are soft and not meant to be power washed. The pressure could damage not only the shingle but the roof beneath it when the shingles are damaged.
Get Help with Pressure Washing
If you need help with pressure washing at your home or business, Brunner Tool and Repair is a leading expert. As pressure washing professionals, Brunner can help you determine if pressure washing is the way to go. Give us a call today for any remaining questions or more information!
