Pressure Washing Summerville removes contaminants from exterior walls, concrete, outdoor stone or tile, Trex decking, and more. It also prepares surfaces for staining and painting.
Routine pressure washing keeps surfaces looking great and prevents the growth of things like mold and mildew. This is preventative maintenance that saves money down the road.
Cleaning hard surfaces with pressure washing is an effective and efficient way to remove mold, mildew, dirt, debris and grime. Surfaces such as wood, concrete, pavers, brick and asphalt can all be cleaned with a pressure washer. However, care must be taken when cleaning these surfaces with a pressure washer, as some can be damaged by the high-powered water spray.
To protect the surfaces being cleaned, it is important to wear safety equipment, including gloves, eye protection and long pants and sleeves. It is also recommended to remove or cover any landscaping features that could be harmed by the spray from the pressure washer. It is also wise to shut off any electrical outlets that may be exposed to the water spray, as well as to close windows and doors.
It is important to know the type of surface you are cleaning and the proper pressure setting to use when using a pressure washer. Too much pressure can damage surfaces, strip paint and even break tiles. A professional will be able to advise you on the best pressure settings, nozzle type and surface cleaner to use for your specific cleaning needs.
Some materials like shingle roofs, vinyl siding and aluminum window frames are very durable and can withstand the high-pressure of a pressure washer. Other materials, like brick and stone, can be severely damaged by the water spray of a pressure washer.
In addition to choosing the right nozzle for the job, it is also necessary to use a cleaning solution to boost the effectiveness of the pressure wash. There are many commercially available cleaning products that are specially formulated to work with pressure washing, and they can help remove stubborn stains that regular cleaning methods cannot.
Some of these products can be used on most types of surfaces, while others require more caution. Bleach, for example, is not appropriate for all pressure washing applications, as it can etch some surfaces and kill off any surrounding vegetation. A professional cleaning service will be able to provide environmentally friendly cleaning solutions that will not damage any of the exterior surfaces on your property.
Cleaning Wood
A pressure washer uses a water pump to accelerate cold water, which is then sprayed at a surface with a force measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). It’s important to work cautiously when using a pressure washer to avoid property damage or personal injury. For this reason, it’s often best to leave professional cleaners in charge of tackling tough outdoor cleaning jobs.
Wood is commonly found in decks, fences, and gazebos, and it needs regular care and maintenance to stay in good shape. The right type of detergent can help get rid of dirt, mildew, and other debris that collects on wood surfaces. For example, alkaline degreasers are great for removing baked-on grease. Citric acid can also be used to get rid of rust or red dirt stains.
When using a pressure washer to clean wood surfaces, it’s a good idea to test the water pressure in an inconspicuous area first. If you’re not sure which pressure setting to use, start with the lowest possible and slowly increase it as needed to get a clean without damaging the surface.
Once the surface is clean, it’s a good idea to allow it to dry completely before treating it with a wood sealant. This will keep the wood protected from moisture and staining, and it can help the surface last longer.
If you’re planning to do the cleaning yourself, be sure to wear gloves and close-toed shoes. The pressurized spray from a pressure washer can sting or burn skin. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure that your equipment is well-maintained and that you’re familiar with how it works before getting started.
It’s a good idea to start with the highest surfaces, such as railings and patio umbrellas, before moving down to lower areas like the deck or walkways. You can also choose to apply a wood cleaner 3-in-1, which not only cleans the surface but provides UV protection and has a natural wax component that helps the wood repel water. It’s a great way to protect your investment in your wooden exterior and keep it looking great for years to come.
Cleaning Concrete
Concrete is one of the strongest building materials, but it’s not immune to wear and tear. Pressure washing can remove dirt, grime, and even stains from concrete surfaces, extending their life and improving the appearance of your home.
A concrete or power washer can be rented at many big box stores. However, it’s better to hire a professional who has the right equipment and experience for this type of project. A pro can also advise you on how to use the pressure washer safely and effectively.
Before getting started, sweep the concrete surface to get rid of loose debris and grit that might damage the finish or scratch the surface. This step is especially important if your concrete is old or has been recently stained. Next, cover or move anything that could be damaged by the chemicals in the pressure washing solution. A push broom works well for this. Also, put down a tarp to protect plants or anything else that might absorb the soapy water runoff or be sprayed by the pressure washer.
Most professionals recommend a pressure washer that’s between 3,000 and 3,500 PSI. Anything higher can cause serious damage to the surface and possibly crack or chip the concrete. Also, the more pressure you have, the more quickly it will wear down your nozzle and create holes in the surface.
Different chemical cleaners are used to remove different stains from concrete, so it’s important to understand how each one works before using it. For example, alkaline cleaners erase general dirt, acids dissolve mineral deposits, and degreasers work on oil stains.
Once the concrete is clean, it’s a good idea to seal the surface. This will protect the concrete, making future cleanings much easier. Some concrete sealers can be applied with a sprayer, which is more convenient than using a brush.
Routine cleaning of concrete can improve curb appeal, enhance longevity, and prepare the surface for sealer. A dirty or stained driveway can actually decrease the value of your home. If you’re considering selling your property, consider having it professionally cleaned and sealed.
Cleaning Metal
While metal structures are designed to stand up to the elements, they still require regular cleaning to keep them looking their best. Scrubbing and scraping are time consuming and ineffective, but with the help of a pressure washer, this task can be completed quickly and efficiently.
The high-pressure water spray produced by a power washer is effective in eliminating various types of dirt, including paint and rust. It also helps loosen and wash away stubborn debris, making it easier to remove by hand.
Many professional cleaners also use powerful chemical solutions and specialized brushes to achieve the best results. However, the use of these products is not advisable for residential users as they can damage surfaces and leave behind unwanted residue.
In order to effectively clean a metal structure, it is important to choose the right type of power washer and accessories. A gas powered machine is ideal for outdoor use, while an electric model is suitable for indoor applications. Some models even feature adjustable pressure and nozzles that can be switched to suit the cleaning requirements of specific surfaces.
Ideally, the first step in cleaning a metal building should be to set the pressure washer at its lowest setting and apply a soapy water mixture. For maximum efficiency, it is recommended to use a detergent or cleaning solution specifically formulated for metal structures. In addition, it is important to always keep the nozzle of the washer at least three feet away from the surface.
It is also important to use the right type of nozzle when spraying a corrosive substance such as grease. Most pressure washers come with a range of different nozzles, and it is crucial to select the one that can best handle the job at hand. For example, a narrow angle nozzle can be used to remove rust stains from metal surfaces while a wide-angle nozzle can be used to blast away dirt and debris from hard-to-reach places. A rotary attachment can also be used to create a rotating water jet that can be applied to curved areas and other difficult-to-reach spots.