How to Clean Vinyl Siding With Exterior Power Washing
While dust and dirt can leave a home looking dull and lifeless, they can also be harmful to your health. Over time, dust, pollen, and other pollutants can accumulate on the exterior surfaces of your home, posing health hazards. Pressure washing your home can remove this dangerous buildup, preventing seasonal allergies. In the U.S., 20 million adults and 6 million children suffer from seasonal allergies, mainly due to pollen and mold spores. Power washing is a great way to prevent these allergic reactions and protect your family’s health. Click for more info.
Presoaking area with low-pressure solution
Before power washing a driveway, you can start by presoaking the area with a solution made specifically for that surface. This will loosen the dirt and save time. Ideally, you should also test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area before proceeding to the rest of the driveway. Also, remember to check with the manufacturer of your power washer to make sure it works well on concrete. Then, you can use a different solution for siding compared to the concrete driveway.
Applying detergent to vertical surfaces
Before applying detergent to a vertical surface, make sure it is the right type for the surface. There are several types to choose from, such as concentrated and ready-to-use. Concentrated detergent must be mixed with water before use, and the nozzle that is used for this process should be low-pressure. Next, apply the detergent to the surface in overlapping passes, sweeping upwards. Wait for about 5 minutes before re-applying. The detergent should be left to work for a few minutes before being rinsed off. If you are cleaning a window or stub-born region, consider using a 15-degree nozzle. Remember to follow all manufacturer directions and follow manufacturers’ instructions.
Pressure washer with 2,500 to 3,000 PSI
When it comes to power washing, the best pressure washer to use is one with a 2,500 to 3,000 PSI rating. The higher the PSI, the more powerful the wash will be. A pressure washer is an essential part of any cleaning routine, but not every surface can handle high pressure. You should be aware of the different types of surfaces and the PSI needed for each one. If you’re unsure of which PSI is needed for exterior power washing, ask a professional to do the job.
Gas-powered pressure washers work by pumping out a powerful jet of water with high pressure. These units can provide anywhere from 2,500 to 3,000 PSI, depending on how hard you need to clean. Most consumer pressure washers can pump out water up to 2.8 GPM, but professional models offer much higher PSI and can handle more difficult jobs and are more appropriate for industrial use.
Cleaning vinyl siding
There are a few benefits of cleaning vinyl siding with exterior power washing. Depending on the type and material of your vinyl siding, you can improve the curb appeal and health of your home with just a few simple steps. For best results, try to clean your siding every two to three years, but it really depends on your personal preferences. If you live in a humid climate, you can consider cleaning it more often. Cleaning the exterior of your home every year may help you avoid fungus and other pest problems.
You may also try a general household cleansers to remove tough stains. You can use Dawn or Clorox, as they are both mild and safe for vinyl siding. The solution must be diluted with water so as not to damage your vinyl siding. You can also use vinegar to remove mildew or mold. If you’re afraid of the smell of vinegar, it’s safe to dilute the solution with water and apply it to the siding.
Cleaning wicker and metal outdoor furniture
Clean wicker and metal outdoor furnishings regularly to keep them looking their best. Traditional wicker furniture is woven from reed or rattan, usually topped with paint. Today, the materials used to make wicker and metal furniture are more durable and often have UV and weather-resistant coatings. Avoid harsh cleaning methods, such as power washing, and make sure to use a mild soap and water solution. Excessive water can cause the fibers to break and may damage the protective finish.
Ensure that the gutters and soffits are securely fastened to the building, as a loose or weakened soffit can lead to structural damage. Likewise, use a low pressure setting to clean wicker and metal outdoor furniture. For metal outdoor furniture, use cold water on a low pressure setting. Similarly, avoid using automotive soap or wax when power washing wicker. Continue reading about Soft Wash House Cleaning.