Giving your home a good power wash is one of the best ways to restore its curb appeal and keep the exterior in great shape. Whether you’re tackling dirt, mildew or just years of grime, a pressure washer can make your siding look brand new. Plus, if you plan on painting your home’s exterior, pressure washing is an excellent way to prep the surface for a fresh coat of paint. But it’s not just about blasting water—there’s a right way to do it safely and effectively. Today, we’ll go step-by-step to help you do a little outside spring cleaning on your house.
Step 1: Prep Before You Spray
Safety First:
Before anything else, turn off the power to outdoor electrical outlets and cover them securely with plastic and tape. Safety always comes first when water and electricity are involved.
Clear the Way:
Move patio furniture, potted plants and anything else you don’t want to get wet. Cover light fixtures, air conditioning units and nearby shrubs or flower beds.
Protect What Matters:
Shield windows, doors, delicate landscaping, walkways and nearby surfaces with drop cloths or plastic sheeting to avoid damaging them with high-pressure water.
Seal It Up:
Take a walk around the house and seal any cracks or gaps in siding. This helps prevent water from getting where it shouldn’t—like inside your walls.
Step 2: Set Up Your Pressure Washer
Assemble the Equipment:
Follow your pressure washer’s manual to put everything together, including the wand and attachments.
Hook It Up:
Connect the garden hose to your water supply and attach the high-pressure hose to the washer and spray wand.
Choose the Right Nozzle:
Start with a wide spray tip (usually 25–40 degrees). It’s gentler and spreads water evenly across surfaces. Depending on your facade’s material, you may need to adjust the nozzle and pressure to avoid damaging the surface.
Power Up:
Turn on the water first, then fire up the machine. Now you’re ready to get to work.
Step 3: Power Washing Techniques That Work
Top to Bottom:
Always begin at the top of the house and work your way down. This helps avoid streaks and keeps dirt from running over freshly cleaned areas.
Keep It Gentle:
Use a lower pressure setting to avoid damaging siding, paint or other sensitive surfaces.
Stay in Motion:
Don’t hover in one spot. Keep the nozzle moving in steady, even strokes—up and down or side to side.
Mind the Angles:
When tackling overhangs, soffits, or gutters, hold the nozzle at a 45-degree angle for better coverage without forcing water where it shouldn’t go.
Use Detergent Wisely:
A biodegradable house wash solution can loosen grime and kill mold. Apply it in overlapping passes, then let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing.
Rinse It Right:
After scrubbing with a soft-bristle brush, rinse thoroughly from top to bottom to wash away all the detergent and residue.
Avoid Trouble Spots:
Never spray directly at windows, vents or outlets—you could break glass or force water inside the home.
Step 4: Pro Tips for a Flawless Finish
- Start From a Distance: Begin spraying a few feet away and slowly move closer as needed—this helps prevent accidental damage.
- Inspect As You Go: Keep an eye out for peeling paint or loose siding. If you spot any damage, pause and take care of it before continuing.
- Clean in Sections: Break the house into manageable areas and clean one section at a time. It makes the job feel less overwhelming and ensures thorough coverage.
- Don’t Stop Mid-Board: Always spray full boards or panels from end to end to avoid uneven cleaning lines.
- Use a Wide Spray Pattern: For consistent results, stick to wide, overlapping passes instead of narrow jets.
- Add Cleaner for Extra Power: While water alone can work, a good detergent can help lift stubborn stains, algae, or mildew.
- Know Your Limits: If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the equipment, don’t risk it—hiring a professional might be the better (and safer) option.
And as always, we want nothing but the best for you and your home. If you decide to take on a project yourself, we want you to have all the tools necessary to succeed. If you decide you’d rather hire a pro, give us a call and we’ll breathe new life into your beautiful home.
