When Should You Not Use a Pressure Washer? Avoid These Common Mistakes
Pressure washers are powerful tools that can make cleaning large surfaces a breeze. However, not every cleaning task calls for the high pressure of a washer. In fact, using a pressure washer in the wrong situation can lead to significant damage to your property. Understanding when not to use a pressure washer is essential to prevent costly repairs and maintain the integrity of your surfaces.
Surfaces and Situations Where You Should Avoid Pressure Washing
Delicate Surfaces Like Wood Siding and Shingles
Why Avoid?: Wood siding and shingles are prone to splintering, cracking, and warping under high pressure. Water can also seep into the wood, leading to rot and mold growth. For these surfaces, soft washing or a low-pressure wash is much safer and equally effective.
Alternative: Consider using a soft wash technique that employs low-pressure water combined with cleaning solutions.
Windows and Glass Surfaces
Why Avoid?: High-pressure water can break windows or etch the glass, leading to costly replacements. Even if the glass remains intact, the seals around the window can be compromised, leading to leaks and drafts.
Alternative: Use a gentle hand wash with mild soap and water, or a low-pressure wash if necessary.
Electrical Panels and Meters
Why Avoid?: Water and electricity don’t mix. Pressure washing electrical panels, meters, or any other electrical components can lead to short circuits, power outages, or even dangerous electrical fires.
Alternative: Clean these areas carefully by hand, ensuring that you don’t introduce any moisture into the components.
Asphalt Shingles
Why Avoid?: Pressure washing asphalt shingles can remove the protective granules, significantly shortening the life of your roof. Additionally, the high pressure can lift and displace shingles, leading to leaks.
Alternative: Soft washing is a much safer method for roof cleaning, effectively removing dirt and moss without damaging the shingles.
Painted Surfaces
Why Avoid?: Pressure washing can strip paint, leaving your home or surface looking patchy and requiring a repaint. This is especially true for older paint that may already be peeling or chipping.
Alternative: For painted surfaces, it’s better to clean by hand or use a soft wash method to avoid stripping the paint.
Old Mortar or Brick
Why Avoid?: High pressure can blast away the mortar holding bricks together, leading to structural damage. It can also weaken old bricks, causing them to crumble.
Alternative: A low-pressure wash or soft brush cleaning is more suitable for these surfaces to prevent damage.
Gutters
Why Avoid?: Pressure washing gutters can cause them to detach from your home, bend, or crack. The force of the water may also push debris into downspouts, causing clogs.
Alternative: Manually clean gutters or use a low-pressure washer designed specifically for gutter cleaning.
Automobiles
Why Avoid?: The high pressure of a pressure washer can strip paint, scratch surfaces, and even dent the metal of your vehicle.
Alternative: Use a standard car wash method with a garden hose, bucket, and sponge.
The Importance of Professional Pressure Washing
Knowing when not to use a pressure washer is just as crucial as knowing how to use one. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can protect your property from unnecessary damage. However, if you’re ever unsure whether a surface can withstand the pressure, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
Around The Bend Pressure Washing: Your Safe and Effective Cleaning Solution
At Around The Bend Pressure Washing, we specialize in knowing the right techniques for every surface. Whether it’s a delicate wood siding or a sturdy concrete driveway, our team is trained to use the appropriate pressure settings and cleaning methods to ensure your property is spotless without any risk of damage.
Serving Tallahassee and the surrounding areas, we offer professional pressure washing, roof cleaning, gutter cleaning, and concrete cleaning services. Let us handle your pressure washing needs with the care and expertise you deserve.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can safely enhance the beauty of your home.
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