If you’re new to pressure washing, it’s important to avoid making these mistakes. Pressure washing can be a great way to clean your home’s exterior, but if done incorrectly, it can damage your siding or even cause injury.
1. Not Hiring A Professional
Not hiring a professional is one of the most common pressure washing mistakes. Many people think that they can save money by doing it themselves, but this often leads to more problems than it solves. Pressure washers are powerful tools that can cause serious damage if not used properly.
Hiring a professional pressure washer is the best way to avoid making common mistakes. A professional will have the experience and knowledge necessary to safely and effectively operate a pressure washer. In addition, a professional will be able to properly adjust the pressure setting based on the type of surface you’re cleaning.
2. Operating The Pressure Washer Without Proper Safety Gear
Operating a pressure washer without proper safety gear is extremely dangerous. Pressure washers can generate a lot of force, which can easily cause serious injury. Always wear protective clothing, including gloves, goggles, and earplugs, when operating a pressure washer.
3. Using The Wrong Pressure Setting
Using the wrong pressure setting is another common mistake. The pressure setting should be adjusted based on the type of surface you’re cleaning and the amount of dirt and grime that needs to be removed.
If you’re using a pressure washer with too much pressure, you could end up damaging your siding or even breaking windows. On the other hand, not using enough pressure will make the job take much longer than it needs to.
4. Using Too Much Pressure
One of the most common mistakes made when pressure washing is using too much pressure. This can damage surfaces, strip paint, and even cause injuries. Always start with the lowest setting and increase the pressure gradually until you find the right balance for the job at hand.
5. Not Using The Right Nozzle
Another common mistake is not using the right nozzle for the job. Different nozzles provide different spray patterns and pressure levels, so it’s important to choose the right one for the task at hand. For example, a zero-degree nozzle should only be used on hard surfaces like concrete, as it can easily damage softer surfaces like wood or vinyl siding.
6. Holding The Nozzle Too Close To The Surface
Holding the nozzle too close to the surface can also damage the material you’re cleaning. When pressure washing, be sure to hold the nozzle at least 12 inches away from the surface you’re cleaning.
7. Moving The Nozzle In The Wrong Direction
Moving the nozzle in the wrong direction can cause streaks or lines to appear on the surface. Remember that moving too fast is another pressure washing mistake that can damage surfaces. When pressure washing, it’s important to move the nozzle slowly and evenly across the surface to avoid leaving streaks or damaging the material.
8. Failing To Rinse Off The Detergent
Failing to rinse off the detergent can leave a residue that attracts dirt and grime. This can make the surface you’re cleaning more difficult to keep clean in the future.
After you’ve finished pressure washing, it’s important to rinse off any remaining detergent. Otherwise, it could end up causing damage down the road.
9. Not Reading the Owner’s Manual
Before using any pressure washer, be sure to read the owner’s manual. This will help you understand how to properly operate the machine and avoid potential hazards.
10. Not Maintaining Your Equipment
Properly maintaining your pressure washer is essential for keeping it in good working condition. Be sure to read the owner’s manual for maintenance instructions specific to your model. In general, however, you should always check the hoses and connections for leaks, clean the filters regularly, and store the machine in a dry place when not in use.
These are just a few of the most common pressure washing mistakes. By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll be able to get the most out of your pressure washer and keep your surfaces looking their best.