Pressure Washing is Not About the Pressure
There is a lot of misconception when it comes to pressure washing services. Most people are under the impression that the way to clean a surface is to blast the heck out of it and this is just not true. Actually excessive pressure can damage most any surface especially vinyl siding, wood, and even brick mortar joints and concrete. Despite what most people think, it is not about the pressure. A better combination is low pressure but high flow and the right chemicals.
High pressure can force water in behind house siding and will scar and splinter wood. It can also blow out ruin screens, blow window seals, and leave wand marks on concrete, siding, and decks. High flow can be used with lower pressure to be much more effective. Flow is measured in gallons per minute. The higher the gallons per minute, the faster the cleaning speed and efficiency. Low pressure will eliminate the risk of damage.
High pressure can not only damage surfaces but can cause injury to the operator or others. It is never recommended to pressure wash with high pressure from a ladder. The pulse that is created when a pressure washing wand is first triggered can easily cause the operator to lose their balance.
The misconception about this high pressure type of cleaning is caused mainly because it is called a “pressure” washer. Most people believe that high pressure is necessary. When pressure washing most people do not realize and do not know how to turn the pressure down without sacrificing flow. This is done all the time by professional pressure washing contractors. The easiest way to accomplish a lesser desired pressure is to use the proper nozzle in the end of the wand. There is a nozzle chart that will help to determine the correct size nozzle depending on the pressure washers flow rate.
This is an effective way of cleaning and be able to do it without high pressure. Most professional contractors will use less than 1500 psi on wood and even less on vinyl siding. In the industry it is known as soft washing or low pressure washing. It is very effective when coupled with the use of the right cleaners. Contractors will rely heavily on the cleaners to do the work, not water pressure. Contractor grade cleaners will emulsify dirt, mold, and mildew making them easier to clean and get rid of.
This proper cleaning technique will also keep these contaminants away longer than just using high water pressure. Ripping these contaminants off with water alone will not kill mold spores and mildew which means they will grow back in a short time. Many do it yourself homeowners battle this every year because they are not using cleaners to kill the mold or mildew. Pressure washing professionals will use the right cleaners and low pressure to do a quality job and can even offer a warranty with their work.
Do not be fooled into thinking high pressure is how you clean surfaces like wood and vinyl. It is a good recipe for damaging these vulnerable surfaces and it is not recommenced. It is best to find a professional pressure washing company to do it for you for the best results. Make sure they use the low pressure method.
Related:
PHILADELPHIA PRESSURE WASHING is a skill. You may not have to believe it but there is always the different use from all of this factors that there is always a difference when pressure washer on your property is at stake. Different soaps, waxes and various pressure levels are all important...
When looking to hire someone to help you you with pressure washing in Lexington, Kentucky then you are in luck. There are many contractors in the area and they can help you with your home. There are roof cleaning Lexington, Kentucky companies and there are concrete cleaning Lexington companies also. If you...
There are several ways to clean and prep a log home in Michigan before applying a wood sealer. Most Michigan log home owners realize the importance of log home maintenance. Before resealing the logs it is necessary to remove any old wood sealer so the new sealant can penetrate the...