Pressure washing a house is
one of the most efficient ways to clean the house or prepare the surface for a
fresh coat of paint.  Pressure washing is recommended for aluminum, asphalt, brick, concrete, granite and wood
surfaces. 

 

Some simple preparation will
make your pressure washing experience more efficient:

·     
Cover all external
electric outlets.

·     
If your home has
shutters, remove them so you can wash beneath them where many insects build
their nests.

·     
Be sure to close the
windows and inspect the sealed areas around the windows for any cracks or gaps;
caulk or seal them as necessary. 

 

If you are pressure washing
the surface in order to paint, be sure the building’s paint is not
lead-based.  Pressure washing is
not recommended for lead paint surfaces.

 

The next step in preparation
is for your safety and comfort. Be sure to dress appropriately for highly
pressurized water use – rain gear such as a poncho or similar clothing that
will keep you as dry as possible is recommended. And don’t forget to wear
safety goggles. Also,do not use a ladder while pressure washing as the severity
of the water pressure could knock you off balance.

 

Now you are ready to
pressure wash! Load detergent into the machine (never use bleach because it can
harm the machine parts). Next, connect the washer’s hose to an outside faucet
then start the engine. Practice a few spraying strokes on a sidewalk or
driveway to get used to the feel of the spray wand’s pressure recoil. When
washing, start at the bottom and work your way up (do the opposite when rinsing
– rinse from the top and work your way down). Work in small areas spraying at a
slightly downward angle approximately 4 feet from the surface area. Spray
horizontally at a steady pace.  Be
sure to use caution when working around light fixtures and glass as the
pressure is sufficient to break them.

 

So whether you’re preparing
for another project or simply sprucing up your home’s exterior, you’re sure to
save lots of time and energy by using a pressure washer. Through a little
preparation and some basic safety precautions, you’re sure to have an excellent
outcome.

 Come check out the pressure washers and other equipment we have available at Action Rentals and Sales.  

1861 North Eastman Road • Kingsport, TN 37664 • 423-246-5181