How to Pressure Wash Siding: The Ultimate Guide

When it comes to cleaning your home’s siding, pressure washing is by far the best option. Not only is it quick and easy, but it’s also a great way to remove built-up dirt, mildew, and other contaminants. However, before you can start pressure washing siding, there are a few things you need to know.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about pressure washing your home’s siding, including the following:

• The types of equipment you’ll need
• The proper techniques to use
• How to avoid damaging your siding
• The best time of year to pressure wash your siding

Let’s get started!

The Types of Equipment You’ll Need

The first thing you’ll need to do is gather the necessary equipment for power washing. Here’s a list of the basic items you’ll need:

1. Pressure washer
2. Hoses
3. Nozzles
4. Safety gear
5. Garden sprayer (optional)

Pressure Washer

The most important piece of equipment you’ll need is a pressure washer. When shopping for a pressure washer, be sure to choose one that has enough power to suit your needs. If you’re cleaning a large area, be sure to get a model with at least 2,000 psi.

Hoses

You’ll also need some hoses to connect your pressure washer to your house. These hoses should be at least 25 feet long, so you have plenty of room to move around.

Nozzles

Nozzles are another essential piece of equipment, as they allow you to adjust the intensity of the water stream. Be sure to get a few different nozzles, so you can choose the right one for each job.

Safety Gear

It’s important to wear safety gear when pressure washing, as it can be a dangerous activity. At a minimum, you should wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and sturdy shoes. It’s also a good idea to wear goggles and a respirator to protect your eyes and lungs from the dust and fumes.

Garden Sprayer

If you’re going to be using a garden sprayer to apply detergent or bleach to your siding, be sure to get one that’s made for pressure washers. This will ensure that the chemicals are diluted properly and won’t damage your siding.

The Proper Techniques to Use

• Always start by testing the water stream on a small, inconspicuous area of the siding to make sure it’s not too powerful.
• When spraying the siding, start at the top and work your way down. This will help prevent the dirt and debris from flowing down the siding and onto the ground.
• Be sure to use a wide fan spray nozzle when cleaning large areas, as it will cover more surface area at once.
• When cleaning tight spaces or around windows and doors, use a narrow stream nozzle to get into those hard-to-reach places.
• If you’re using a garden sprayer to apply detergent or bleach to your siding, be sure to dilute the chemicals according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Never point the pressure washer at yourself or anyone else. The water stream can cause injuries if it’s not directed properly.

How to Avoid Damaging Your Siding?

• Never use excessive pressure when cleaning the siding. The water stream should be strong enough to remove the dirt and debris, but not so strong that it damages the surface of the siding.
• Be careful not to let the water stream linger in one spot for too long. This can cause the paint or sealant to peel or crack.
• Avoid using high pressure on areas where there is evidence of rot or decay. This can further damage the wood and make it vulnerable to moisture intrusion.
• Always use a wide fan spray nozzle when cleaning large areas, as it will cover more surface area at once and minimize the risk of damage.
• When cleaning tight spaces or around windows and doors, use a narrow stream nozzle to get into those hard-to-reach places.
• If you’re using a garden sprayer to apply detergent or bleach to your siding, be sure to dilute the chemicals according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• The avoid any type of damage hire a professional power washing company. It will save your time also your money.