Power washing uses a high-pressure stream of hot water to blast away dirt, mold, mildew, dust, grime, mud, sand, chewing gum and more from outdoor surfaces like buildings, fences, masonry, some vehicles and concrete or asphalt surfaces like driveways. It is ideal for surfaces where sanitization is a priority alongside improving appearance.
Using a power washer is one of the most efficient ways to clean dirt build-up, mold, mildew, loose paint, and grime from surfaces like asphalt, concrete, driveways, sidewalks, patios, porches, vinyl siding, brick walls, roofs, and more. It can even be used to remove oil, grease, bird droppings, and other debris from cars and boats. Contact Windsor Power Wash for professional help.
Unlike most cleaning methods, which rely on harsh or harmful chemicals to get the job done, power washing relies solely on high-pressure water spray to do its work. This makes it environmentally friendly and more effective than other cleaning methods.
In addition, if used correctly, it can also save money on cleaning supplies. For example, instead of buying a large container of cleaning soap, you can simply mix hot water and vinegar together to make a powerful cleaner that will get the job done just as effectively. Another way to save money is by purchasing a pressure washer that has a range of PSI (Pounds per Square Inch), and then dialing it down to the appropriate level for each use. This allows you to buy the washer once and use it for any number of different applications without having to upgrade to a more powerful model down the road.
While power washing and pressure washing seem similar in many ways, there are some key differences between the two. For starters, a power washer has a heating element that can adjust the temperature of the water it produces while a pressure washer uses unheated tap water. The higher temperature of the power washing machine’s water helps to loosen and remove things that wouldn’t come off with regular water pressure, such as chewed gum stuck on a sidewalk or moss growing on the side of a building.
In addition, the pressure at which a power wash is used affects how much force is exerted on a surface. If the pressure is too high, it can cause damage to surfaces and structures, so it’s important to hire a professional who has experience using a power washer. They will know how to adjust the pressure and apply it in the right places without causing any damage. They will also have a plan in place for containing and collecting wastewater so it doesn’t drain into nearby water sources.
Temperature
When it comes to home maintenance, power washing is a great way to clean and sanitize outdoor surfaces. It removes harmful substances like mold, mildew, and grime from siding, concrete, gutters, roofs, and more. When done correctly, it does not harm the environment and can actually extend the life of surfaces by removing harmful substances that cause decay and damage over time. However, the temperature at which power wash is used plays a role in the environmental impact of this cleaning method. It is important to choose a professional service that uses eco-friendly products and knows how to properly direct water flow, to reduce the risk of causing environmental damage.
It is also best to avoid power washing in freezing temperatures, as this can cause the cleaning solution with water to freeze and put stress on the surface and structural connections.
Chemicals
Professional pressure washing chemicals break down gunk, correct discoloration, and brighten surfaces. They work in addition to the high-pressure water to remove stains, and they are safe to use on many types of building materials. They also reduce the risk of damage by removing bacteria or fungal overgrowth that would otherwise weaken surfaces or cause surface erosion.
Corrosives are highly effective at dissolving grime, but they can be harmful to your pressure washer machine, so they must be applied using a separate tool like a pump-up sprayer, an X-jet, or an airless foamer. Corrosives can also be toxic to human beings and should only be used for the amount of time instructed by the manufacturer. When selecting a corrosive, look for one with a low pH of about 1-6 to avoid corrosion or damage to the surface.
Other common cleaning chemicals include bleach (sodium hydroxide and sodium hypochlorite) and ammonia, which is a colorless gas composed of nitrogen and hydrogen atoms that has a pungent odor. Ammonia is used to clean glass and stainless steel, but it can be too harsh for delicate surfaces, so it should be diluted with other chemicals before applying. When choosing a chemical, read the Safety Data Sheet to learn about potential health risks, storage instructions, spill procedures, physical data, toxicity, fire and explosion data, reactivity, and first aid treatment.
Safety
When working with powerful machinery like power washers, safety is key. These machines can be damaging to people, animals, and property if not handled properly. To avoid injuries, wear rubber boots and gloves, and use the appropriate cleaning agent for the surface being cleaned. Also, make sure to read and follow the owner’s manual before using a power washer.
It’s also important to power wash in a well-ventilated area and never use it on delicate surfaces such as wood or vinyl. The force of the water can damage these surfaces, leading to expensive repairs or replacements down the road.
Before you start spraying, practice on a safe area such as your driveway to get a feel for the movement and power of the machine. This will help you learn how to position the nozzle at the right distance from the surface so you don’t injure yourself or damage the item you’re washing. Always firmly grip the nozzle with both hands, and extend your arms to hold it at the correct spraying angle. It’s also a good idea to wear long pants and protective eyewear. The force of the water can blast debris into your legs and eyes, causing cuts and lacerations.
Aside from being a great way to improve your home’s curb appeal, power washing also helps prevent expensive repairs and maintain the value of your home. Grime, mildew, moss, and other pollutants can damage your siding, roof, gutters, windows, doors, and trim over time. Regularly power washing these areas can keep them looking clean and new.
Additionally, power washing is an effective method for removing weeds and moss from outdoor surfaces. The heat from the water kills the plant matter and prevents it from growing back. This is an especially helpful tool for spaces that are hard to reach or cannot be reached with traditional methods. For these reasons, many home and business owners choose to hire a professional to handle their power washing needs.