There is something special about having something designed for you. Whether it’s a suit, a house, or something in between; when an item meets your exact specifications, it performs better for its intended purpose. The same is also true for pressure washers. Of course you can get one off of the shelf, but it is it going to provide the power and versatility that you need? When you have the option of selecting the right engine, the right pump, and right features for your home or business, you know your machine will be able to handle anything and everything you throw at it; especially after a storm.
Cleaning up around your home or business after a tropical storm or hurricane comes through is unfortunately a way of life in this part of the country during hurricane season. While picking up whatever debris was brought in, you may notice the exterior of your structure needs to be cleaned. No matter what type of material it’s made of, the right pressure washer can make it look as good as new. Here are a few tips for pressure washing the different materials around your buildings.
Pressure Washing Brick
For brick surfaces begin by wetting the surface with water only. To ensure an even soaking, spray from the bottom up. Once evenly saturated, you can add detergent. Agent Outdoor Cleaning products work perfectly with your pressure washer, and are available for a variety of surfaces and needs. Again, apply from the bottom up, and allow it to soak into the brick for 5-10 minutes. Because brick and mortar is a porous material, the detergent will soak into them. Tough stains can be brushed. Finally rinse off the detergent.
Pressure Washing Siding
For vinyl siding, you can begin with your detergent. Again, Agent Outdoor Cleaning products are a great choice for pressure washing your siding. Use a soap tip at the end of your wand. This tip will provide lower pressure at a wider angle, allowing the soap to be distributed across a larger area. While spraying, be careful not to spray up, into corners, and be mindful about where each piece of siding overlaps. If water ends up behind a crevice it can create water damage. Once the detergent is applied, change back to a general use tip and rinse the surface. This will remove the soap and any dirt that was loosened.
Pressure Washing Stucco
The textured surface of stucco can trap a lot of dirt. However, before you begin to pressure wash it, be sure to check for any crack and chips. If you find any, be sure to repair them, and wait a week for any patching to dry. Otherwise, you can begin with detergent and spray identifiable sections starting from the bottom and working up. Let the solution set for 10 minutes. For heavily soiled areas you can use a scrub brush. After 10 minutes switch to a low pressure spray pattern and spray the soap off of the stucco. Spray the surface at a 45 degree angle and be sure to keep it at least 24 inches away.
Pressure Washing Concrete
Whether your cleaning concrete wall or driveway or sidewalk, begin be clearing any debris from the area. Begin by spraying your detergent on the surface, overlapping each stroke by six to eight inches. Allow the detergent to stay for five minutes. Next, replace the tip with a 25 degree tip, and remove the detergent. For tougher areas, hold the nozzle three to four inches from the surface.
Pressure Washing Wood
When it comes to pressure washing wood, your tip and pressure selection will depend on what type of wood the surface is made of. For softer woods like pine or cedar, 500 to 600 psi is recommended. Harder woods can tolerate more, but try not to exceed 1,200 psi. Use a fan tip with a 40-60 degree spread. Clean the surface with a sweeping motion, keeping a consistent distance. It’s important to work with the grain of the wood.
Regardless of the type surface you are pressure washing, there is a method that will bring it back to life. Having the right pressure washer for your needs is another necessity. The experts at Bozeman Distributors build custom pressure washers, have both electric and gas options.