Pressure Washing Siding

Pressure Washing Siding: The Ultimate Guide

Pressure washing siding is a great way to get rid of all the dirt and debris that has accumulated over the years. The harsh pressure of water will make cleaning up your home a breeze-and it can be done on any size surface area. This handy article covers everything you need to know about pressure washing siding, how to prepare for this job, what tools to use, and what not to do when undertaking this task.

Preparing for the Job:

There are several factors to consider before pressure washing. First, you need to decide if your home could benefit from pressure washing. If it’s been a while since you’ve had the siding cleaned, or if it’s looking a little dull, a power washer could be a great solution.

If your siding is cracked or warped in any way, it may not be the right time to pressure wash. A wet surface that moves could cause further damage to itself and you definitely don’t want that.

Choose The Right Pressure Washer For You:

A pressure washer, by definition, is any high-pressure appliance that uses water to clean. These appliances come in many different shapes and sizes with varying amounts of pressure. You can use a small handheld power washer that attaches itself to your garden hose, or you can opt for the more powerful gas-powered versions.

Be sure to think about your needs and your budget before you make a purchase.

Power washing is an involved process, and, as such, it can be quite time-consuming. If this doesn’t deter you from the job at hand, read on to find out what tools you’ll need for this project.

Tools You’ll Need:

Most pressure washers come with the necessary tools for cleaning. If yours doesn’t, you’ll need to pick up these items before beginning work:

Hose – It’s important that your hose is strong and durable; it will be dragged through rocks and mud in order to get to your siding. You don’t want your hose falling apart mid-job!

Lance – This attachment is the gun of the pressure washer. It directs high-pressure water through a hose and onto whatever surface you’re cleaning. Check your manual to find out what size and configuration you need for the job at hand.

Nozzles – You’ll want several different types of nozzles for this job. The first is a hard-jet nozzle that will cut through tough dirt and grime. You’ll also need a fan nozzle to help you clean out your gutters as well as other small crevices.

Cleaning Solutions – For tougher jobs, use a cleaning solution designed for power washing. If you don’t have one on hand, you can use a regular soap and warm water mixture that will help dislodge stubborn dirt and grime.

Prepare the Area For Washing:

Before you start pressure washing, make sure your siding is dry and free of debris like rocks and twigs. These items could fly out at high speeds while you’re cleaning and seriously damage your siding or even injure you.

Once your siding is clear of debris, turn the water on and give the area a good rinse. This will help to clear away any soap residue that might be on your siding prior to cleaning. If you’re using a regular soap mixture, these steps aren’t necessary.

Prepare Yourself for Washing:

Now that your siding is clear, it’s time to prepare yourself. Wear long pants and long sleeves for this job. You may even want to consider wearing goggles or safety glasses in case something gets knocked loose during the cleaning process.

Last but not least, make sure you have good footing before you start pressure washing. Slippery surfaces can send you tumbling to the ground if you’re not careful.