• Home
• Pressure Washing Tips
• Is Pressure Washing Safe For My Exterior Surfaces? What You Need To Know About This Method Of Exterior Cleaning

Is Pressure Washing Safe For My Exterior Surfaces? What You Need To Know About This Method Of Exterior Cleaning

Pressure washing is a highly effective method for cleaning exterior surfaces, but many people wonder whether or not it's safe for their property. After all, the idea of a highly pressurized stream of water or chemicals can sound downright scary to some people, especially when a home or business owner takes immense pride in the upkeep of the property as a whole. When done correctly, pressure washing easily removes even the most stubborn dirt, grime, and organic growth without causing damage. However, it's essential to understand the potential risks and take precautions to ensure the safety of your surfaces if choosing to do the work yourself.

Pressure Washing As A Whole Is Generally Safe For Your Surfaces

One of the primary concerns associated with the pressure washing method of exterior cleaning is the potential for damage to certain materials. Higher-pressure water can be incredibly powerful and, if misused, can cause issues such as etching, chipping, or even structural damage to surfaces that can't handle it. That's why it's so important to work with experienced professionals who understand exactly how to adjust the pressure and technique to suit each specific surface.

A service like roof cleaning, for example, should never be done with high pressure. For services like this, a professional will use the soft washing method instead. Soft washing uses a combination of much lower pressure settings—500 PSI or below—and a higher concentration of eco-friendly chemical solutions to deliver outstanding results without risking damage to your property. This method is also used on materials such as wood, glass, vinyl, and stucco, as well as materials that aren't in great condition.

So Why Do Experts Recommend Against Do-It-Yourself Pressure Washing?

Alongside property damage due to a lack of knowledge of all the various techniques, nozzles, and settings, you also run the risk of grievous bodily injury when attempting pressure washing by yourself. The force of the water emitted by a pressure washer can cause lacerations, bruises, or even broken bones if not handled properly. Additionally, the use of certain cleaning solutions or chemicals can pose health risks if they come into contact with the skin or are inhaled.

To mitigate these risks, it's essential to follow all safety guidelines and wear appropriate protective gear when operating a pressure washer. Experts already have access to all of the knowledge, gear, equipment, and guidelines on hand, making it much easier and cost-effective to simply go with a pro for pressure washing.

Leave all your pressure washing needs to the experts here at VA Power Wash Pros. We'll help make your home or business look like new again, so give us a call or fill out our online service request form today!