Quck answer
Pressure washing is an effective way to clean siding, but it can also cause damage if not done correctly. To safely pressure-wash siding, follow these steps:
1. Prepare the area: Remove any obstacles, cover plants and electrical outlets, and close windows and doors.
2. Choose the right pressure setting: Use a lower pressure setting to avoid damaging the siding. Start with a low setting and gradually increase if needed.
3. Use the correct nozzle: Use a wide-angle nozzle to disperse the water evenly and prevent damage.
4. Maintain a safe distance: Keep the nozzle about 1-2 feet away from the siding to avoid causing any harm.
5. Spray at an angle: Aim the nozzle at a downward angle to prevent water from getting behind the siding and causing moisture issues.
6. Clean from top to bottom: Start at the top and work your way down to prevent streaking.
7. Rinse thoroughly: After pressure washing, rinse the siding thoroughly to remove any detergent or debris.
By following these steps, you can safely pressure-wash siding and keep it looking clean and well-maintained.
Pressure washing is a quick and effective technique to remove dirt and paint from surfaces. However, pressure washing siding may not be a good idea as it can damage the siding by forcing water underneath it, leading to problems with rot and mold. Moreover, it can create airborne flecks of lead-based paint, posing a danger to both yourself and your neighbors. Hence, it is crucial to pressure-wash siding safely.
Check for Lead
If you plan to pressure wash a house built before 1978, it is essential to check the paint for lead, as the pressure washer can remove some of it. Airborne flecks of lead may settle on your lawn, which can be harmful to children and pets. To avoid this, purchase a lead test kit to test the paint. If the test is positive, do not pressure wash. Instead, scrape off the old paint manually, collect it for disposal, and scrub the siding with soap and water.
Choose the Right Sprayer and Nozzle
For washing siding, you do not need a contractor-grade pressure washer with extremely high pressure. Electric pressure washers from several manufacturers develop enough pressure for general cleaning and are easier to use than gas-powered ones. Quick-connect pressure washer tips come in different colors, denoting the width of the spray pattern. To clean siding, use white (40 degrees) and green (25 degrees) tips. Avoid the yellow (15 degrees) tip and never use the red tip (0 degrees) as it can damage the siding. The black tip is ideal for applying soap, and the turbo tip is fine to use on siding. It is best to use a wide-angle tip when working close to windows and use the white or black tip for cleaning windows.
Choose Low-Pressure Spray for Wood Siding
When using a pressure washer on old wood siding, it’s important to use low-pressure spray to avoid damaging the surface. High-pressure spray can cause wood to splinter or form depressions in masonry surfaces. It can also chip away old mortar between bricks and crack brittle vinyl siding. Electric washers typically deliver appropriate low-pressure spray, but gasoline-powered machines require manual pressure adjustment to between 1,500 and 2,400 psi. To improve dirt removal, apply a soap solution before spraying, but avoid bleach-based cleaners that can damage rubber parts.
Point the Sprayer Downward to Prevent Water Incursion
To prevent water from getting underneath siding and causing mold and rot, it’s important to always hold the sprayer tip above the spot you’re spraying and point it downward. This is especially important for clapboard, shingles, and siding tiles, but can also apply to other types of siding. Never point the sprayer upward when washing clapboard or tiles, as the pressure can blow off planks or tiles and force water underneath. Water can also find its way through gaps underneath trim boards and nail holes, so be cautious when spraying these areas.
FAQ
1. Can pressure-washing damage siding?
Pressure-washing can potentially damage siding if not done correctly. High pressure can strip paint, dent the siding, or even cause water intrusion into the walls. It is important to use the appropriate pressure setting and technique to avoid any damage.
2. What pressure setting should I use for pressure-washing siding?
The pressure setting for pressure-washing siding should be around 1500-2000 PSI (pounds per square inch). This is sufficient to remove dirt, mildew, and grime without causing any damage. It is important to start with a lower pressure and gradually increase if needed, while being cautious of the siding’s condition.
3. Can I use bleach or other cleaning solutions when pressure-washing siding?
Yes, you can use bleach or other cleaning solutions to enhance the cleaning process when pressure-washing siding. However, it is crucial to dilute them properly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Additionally, make sure to rinse the siding thoroughly after using any cleaning solution to prevent any residue or discoloration.
4. Are there any areas of the siding that should be avoided while pressure-washing?
While pressure-washing siding, it is recommended to avoid spraying directly into gaps, seams, or any openings in the siding. This can force water into the walls, causing potential damage or moisture issues. It is also advisable to avoid spraying at a steep angle or too close to the siding to prevent any damage.
5. Should I hire a professional for pressure-washing siding?
If you are unsure about pressure-washing or have a large area of siding to clean, it is advisable to hire a professional. They have the experience, knowledge, and equipment to safely and effectively pressure-wash siding. Hiring a professional will ensure the job is done correctly without any risk of damage to your siding.