5 Things You Should Not Pressure Wash

When summer kicks in, it is time to get your patio and deck clean. A pressure washer can make quick work of it all, but how do you avoid causing damage? What should you wash with a pressure washer and what is off-limits? Pressure washing is the best way to remove ingrained grime and dirt from your patio, decking, car, caravan or garden furniture? This tool will blast the surface with pressure water, removing grime and icky stains. You can't use it on delicate wood or paintwork, though.

First things first, let's see how to use a pressure washer efficiently. We will help you understand what you can wash with your pressure washer and what should not be pressure washed. After this, you can do house washing perfectly without messing things up.

How to Use a Pressure Washer

1. Use the Correct Nozzle

You'll only achieve the most effective cleaning with a pressure washer designed specifically to clean the specific surfaces you want. For example, a pressure washer designed to wash concrete can't clean decks or wooden furniture. If you use the correct nozzle for the perfect surface and use just enough pressure to clean, it will not cause damage to the surface. Some professional pressure washers even come with additional sanding sprays to help you maintain the hard edge of the concrete. It's essential to use the proper nozzle for the job.

2. Use the Correct Power

A glance at the label on your pressure washer will tell you exactly how powerful it is. This is something that most people do not know. In contrast, when you use the correct power of the pressure washer, it is unlikely that you will damage the product or surface being cleaned.

Important Tips on How Not to Use a Pressure Washer

With your pressure washer, it is essential to look out for warning signs. Ask how many pressure washer safety features have been used and carefully check the label or instruction manual for warnings about damaged paintwork or other elements. There are many washers on the market, so ask your local retailer if they recommend one. Always wear safety goggles and ear protectors and carry the job as close to any power source as possible. If possible, leave it to run for 10 minutes and then use the defoamer. Finally, check for any leaks and run the washer for another 10 minutes to ensure there's no residue.

Don't Pressure Wash Windows

While pressure washers may appear to remove dirt from surfaces in an instant, they are not meant for window cleaning. Yes, even those that are too high for you to reach. Most windows have fragile glass that cannot withstand the high pressure from the water spray. As such, the pressurized water is bound to break the glass and have pieces flying everywhere, creating a mess and a significant safety risk.

Don't Pressure Wash Cars

Generally, pressure washers are not meant to clean vehicles. However, you may see some manufacturers marketing theirs as low-pressure pressure washers suitable for cars. The truth is, low pressure or not, the chances are high that you will end up damaging your vehicle in some way. For instance, your distance from the car while pressure washing or even the water spray angle can chip your paint or leave dents, leaving your car vulnerable to corrosion and rusting. The pressurized water can also force the entry of water into vital parts like the engine, leading to costly repairs.

Don't Pressure Wash Stones/ Bricks

You can clean paving stones and concrete patios with a pressure washer but for new bricks, you would need to set a significantly lower pressure. However, pressure washing is a bad idea for walls that have old mortar and those that are cracked or crumbling. The pressure from your pressure washer is more likely to blow away bits of your wall, leaving you with an unsightly house and repair expenses.

Don't Pressure Wash Your Porch or Any Painted Surfaces

Do not use your pressure washer on the porch or any other painted surface. If you have set the pressure too high, it is bound to strip away your paint. A low-pressure pressure washer setting may be able to get the job done without causing any damage but it may not be worth the risk.

Now that you know what not to clean with a pressure washer, you can better maintain your property. Also, it is more coefficient to hire a pressure and power washing company to ensure everything is cleaned to your satisfaction.