Common Mistakes to Avoid When Pressure Washing Your Home

Pressure washing is one of the most effective ways to clean the exterior surfaces of your home. Whether you’re dealing with dirt, grime, mold, or mildew, a high-powered pressure washer can restore the look of your driveway, siding, deck, or patio.

However, using a pressure washer incorrectly can do more harm than good. Homeowners often make mistakes that lead to property damage, personal injury, or an ineffective cleaning job. Let us see the most common mistakes to avoid when pressure washing your home to ensure a safe and successful cleaning experience.

1. Using Too Much Pressure

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make when pressure washing is using too much pressure. While pressure washers are powerful machines, not every surface can withstand the same force. High pressure might be suitable for concrete driveways or stone patios, but using excessive force on delicate surfaces like wood siding or windows can cause cracks, etching, or even breakage.

How to avoid it:

• Use the right nozzle: Different nozzles deliver different levels of pressure. Choose a lower-pressure nozzle for more delicate surfaces like wood and siding, and a higher-pressure nozzle for tougher materials like concrete.
• Test in a small area: Before you start pressure washing an entire area, test a small section to ensure you’re not damaging the surface.
• Maintain distance: Always stand a few feet back from the surface to prevent applying too much pressure directly.

2. Skipping the Pre-Treatment

Many homeowners are eager to jump right into pressure washing without doing any prep work. Skipping this crucial step can leave you with a subpar cleaning job. Dirt and grime that are deeply embedded in the surface may not come off easily with pressure washing alone.

How to avoid it:

• Pre-treat stains: Use a cleaning solution or detergent specifically designed for pressure washing to loosen dirt and grime before applying pressure. This is especially important for removing mold, mildew, and oil stains.
• Let it sit: Give the cleaning solution time to work before you start pressure washing. This allows the detergent to break down the grime and makes it easier to remove.

3. Not Protecting Nearby Plants and Furniture

Another common mistake when pressure washing your home is forgetting to protect nearby plants, outdoor furniture, or landscaping. High-pressure water and chemicals can damage or even kill plants. They can also ruin patio furniture, grills, and other outdoor items if left exposed during the washing process.

How to avoid it:

• Cover plants: Use tarps or plastic sheeting to cover any plants, flowers, or shrubs near the area you’re washing. This will protect them from the high-pressure water and any chemicals you may be using.
• Move furniture: If possible, move outdoor furniture, grills, and other items out of the way. If they can’t be moved, cover them with waterproof material.
• Rinse plants afterward: Once you’re done pressure washing, rinse nearby plants with fresh water to remove any detergent or debris that may have landed on them.

4. Using the Wrong Detergent

Not all cleaning solutions are created equal, and using the wrong detergent can cause damage to your home’s exterior or the environment. Some homeowners make the mistake of using regular household cleaners that aren’t designed for pressure washing, which can lead to chemical reactions, staining, or surface damage.

How to avoid it:

• Use a pressure washer-specific detergent: Always use a detergent that is formulated for pressure washing. These solutions are typically biodegradable and safe for outdoor use.
• Check the label: Read the instructions on the detergent label to ensure it’s safe for the surface you’re cleaning. Different detergents are made for wood, vinyl siding, concrete, or other materials, so choose one that’s appropriate for your task.

5. Ignoring Safety Precautions

Pressure washers can cause serious injuries if not used properly. The combination of high-pressure water and cleaning chemicals can be hazardous, especially if proper safety measures aren’t taken. Common injuries include cuts, bruises, and chemical burns. In extreme cases, pressure washers can even lead to broken bones or lacerations.

How to avoid it:

• Wear protective gear: Always wear safety goggles, gloves, and long sleeves to protect yourself from flying debris, water, and chemicals.
• Avoid using a ladder: Many people make the mistake of using a ladder while pressure washing high areas. This is dangerous because the pressure from the washer can knock you off balance. Instead, use an extension wand to reach high places like gutters or upper-level siding.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions: Every pressure washer is different, so be sure to read the manual and follow all safety guidelines.

6. Washing Windows the Wrong Way

Windows are one of the most vulnerable parts of your home during pressure washing. If you’re not careful, you can easily crack the glass or damage the seals around the window frames. Additionally, using too much pressure on windows can force water into the home, causing leaks and water damage inside.

How to avoid it:

• Lower the pressure: Use the lowest pressure setting possible when cleaning windows. A soft wash or gentle spray is enough to remove dirt without causing damage.
• Use a wide spray: A wider spray pattern disperses the pressure over a larger area, reducing the risk of cracking or damaging the glass.
• Angle the spray: Spray at an angle rather than directly at the windows to minimize the pressure impact.

7. Overlooking Certain Areas

Pressure washing your home can be time-consuming, and some homeowners rush through the process, overlooking key areas that need cleaning. This results in an incomplete job and leaves your home looking patchy or uneven.

How to avoid it:

• Plan your work: Take the time to plan out the areas you need to clean, including less obvious spots like gutters, soffits, and eaves. Create a checklist if needed.
• Work systematically: Start from the top of the house and work your way down to avoid re-contaminating areas you’ve already cleaned.
• Pay attention to detail: Look for hidden dirt and grime in corners, crevices, and hard-to-reach areas.

8. Neglecting to Maintain the Pressure Washer

A pressure washer is a powerful tool that requires regular maintenance to function properly. Many homeowners fail to perform routine checks on their equipment, leading to poor performance or even machine breakdowns.

How to avoid it:

• Check the filter: A clogged filter can reduce water flow and pressure. Regularly inspect and clean the filter to ensure the machine is working efficiently.
• Inspect the hose and nozzle: Look for any cracks, leaks, or damage in the hose and nozzle before starting your project. Replace damaged parts as needed.
• Flush the machine after use: After pressure washing, flush the machine with clean water to remove any detergent or debris that could clog the system.

9. Washing in the Wrong Weather Conditions

Choosing the wrong time to pressure wash can hinder your results. Pressure washing on a rainy or windy day can lead to water spots, streaks, or uneven cleaning, while washing in direct sunlight can cause the detergent to dry too quickly, leaving behind residue.

How to avoid it:

• Choose a calm, overcast day: Pressure washing is best done on a mild, dry day with little wind. Overcast weather helps the detergent stay wet longer, allowing it to work effectively.
• Avoid direct sunlight: Try to avoid pressure washing in the heat of the day when the sun is at its strongest. Early morning or late afternoon are usually the best times for pressure washing.

By avoiding these common pressure-washing mistakes, you can ensure your home stays clean and damage-free. If you’re unsure about doing the job yourself or want professional results, consider hiring a reputable company like Big Easy Pressure Washing. Our team of experts knows how to pressure wash your home safely and efficiently, giving you peace of mind and a beautifully restored exterior.

Contact us today for a free estimate and let us help you keep your home looking its best!