Pressure Washing Is Better Than Hosing Something Off

Whether it's after a storm or simply because you haven't done so in a while, pressure washing your patio surface and furniture is a home maintenance must. It's tempting to grab the garden hose, adjust the nozzle to its "maximum setting," and simply let it rip. No detergents. No plan. Just blast it -- and hope the dirt somehow is removed.

Not so fast, homeowner; there's still work to be done.

Pressure washing requires a safe approach and an actual plan for how to carry out the project. Sure, it's fun to turn up the power, but this is likely not the best or most efficient approach to pressure washing. In the end, you might just be transferring dirt and grime from one location to another. Then you wake up the following day, and there's still a mess.

To avoid a disappointing DIY pressure washing result, consider taking the following steps:

• Clear off everything -- chairs, tables, plants, etc. -- first.
• Use a blower or at least a broom to remove surface dirt and debris.
• Pressure wash the paved surface, so it starts to dry. Use a sweeping motion from the middle out to most effectively perform this step.
• Line up the aforementioned items with adequate spacing; consider cleaning them with an anti-bacterial wipe first.
• Thoroughly spray each item, starting at the top and then working toward the bottom.
• Repeat, if necessary.

It's OK To Wash Your Roof, But…

Just like any DIY project, homeowners sometimes seek the easiest way to achieve the best results. This usually is when problems start. And if roof cleaning is involved, well, you can imagine what might happen next.

Before you even set foot on the bottom rung of that ladder, be sure to:

• Secure a ladder that is long enough to accommodate the job.
• Inform family members of what you'll be doing.
• Put necessary tools in a bucket or container that will make it easy to transport.
• Wear gloves and rubber-soled shoes.
• Always be aware of exactly where you are while on the roof.

Take Great Care When Pressure Washing Your Siding

Just as you do when you approach any pressure washing project, be sure to take everything safety-oriented into consideration. So before you set out on a house washing venture, ask yourself: Did I:

• Tightly secure all windows, doors, and pet doors?
• Cover the chimney to avoid flooding?
• Inspect window seals in case caulking has eroded?
• Thoroughly test the pressure washing mechanism?

Certainly, there are other safety considerations to be made, but no matter what, follow these simple suggestions of having a good, safe plan BEFORE you start pressure washing a patio, your roof, or your house itself.

And consider calling a professional like Premier Pro Washing for advice or even an estimate.