How to Pressure Wash Your Home

The Tools for Power Washing

The first step in learning how to pressure wash is having the right power washing tools. The essential and most basic tools include a water and power source, hose, power washing nozzle and power washing approved cleaning solutions. Other useful equipment includes gloves, eye protection, plastic tarps and caulk.

How to Pressure Wash Vinyl Siding

Before breaking out the power washing hose, the first step is to carefully caulk all cracks in the siding. Otherwise water will seep into the wall and cause mold to grow from the inside. Next, take steps to protect your landscaping by covering plants and flowers. Be sure all windows are closed and only use power washing approved detergent.

Start the power washing hose at low pressure as you add the solution. Spray the house from just several feet away, working from the bottom up. Once the entire house is washed, switch the power washing nozzle to high pressure and remove the cleaning solution in order to rinse the house of all traces of soap – starting from the top and working your way down.

How to Pressure Wash Brick and Stone

When power washing non-vinyl exteriors, such as brick and stone, follow the same steps as above, with the following adaptations:

• Start by patching all cracks with the proper filling. Let the patching dry for at least one week before starting the power washing.
• Use a hammer to remove pointing from the stone in order to facilitate complete cleaning.

How to Pressure Wash Cement

Power washing cement walks and drives is quite similar to power washing the side of a house, with the addition of a few more steps. For instance, when doing the power washing, be sure to clean in the direction of the natural flow of water so dirty water does not run over areas you already cleaned. Also, you should use a power washing solution specially designed for cement surfaces. After the power washing is done, let the drive dry for at least 48 hours before placing on the coat or sealer.