Welcome to the world of pressure washers, where powerful tools can enhance the appearance of your home’s siding, driveways, and even vehicles when used carefully. Dylan Fox, the product development manager at Greenworks, emphasizes the importance of knowing what not to pressure wash. Some items and materials are not suitable for pressure washing as the strong water jets can lead to expensive repairs, safety risks, or irreversible damage. Softer materials like stucco, soft woods, and aluminum siding require a gentle approach to avoid harm.
Before diving into using your pressure washer, it is crucial to understand what should not be pressure washed and why. Here are some key points to consider:
1. Roofs and Some Siding:
Roof tiles made of materials such as asphalt, tile, slate, metal, or wood are not ideal candidates for pressure washing. The force of the water jet can dislodge tiles, create leaks, and damage protective coatings, ultimately shortening the lifespan of your roof. It is recommended to leave roof cleaning to professionals with specialized equipment, especially if you have solar panels installed. Additionally, fiber cement siding should be avoided with pressure washing to prevent voiding manufacturer warranties.
2. Gutters:
While gutters can technically be pressure-washed, it is best to avoid this method. High pressure can loosen gutter joints, damage brackets, or detach gutters from your home. Manual debris removal and gentle flushing with a garden hose are safer alternatives for gutter cleaning.
3. Old Brick Surfaces:
Although pressure washing brick walls and patios is generally acceptable, caution is advised with old mortar. High-pressure water can accelerate mortar deterioration, leading to structural issues. To preserve integrity, use the pressure washer at the lowest PSI setting and avoid spraying directly on mortar joints.
4. Painted or Stained Surfaces:
Avoid pressure washing painted or stained surfaces unless planning to repaint or restain the area soon. Water pressure can strip paint or stain unevenly, exposing underlying material. For surfaces containing lead-based paint, pressure washing can release harmful particles. Instead, opt for soapy warm water and gentle cleaning tools to avoid damage.
5. Glass Doors and Windows:
Exercise caution when pressure washing glass surfaces, especially older or painted glass. High-pressure water can damage seals, frames, or cause leaks. Consider using a gentler cleaning method for glass surfaces.
By understanding what not to pressure wash and practicing caution, you can maintain the integrity and appearance of your property without causing unintended damage.
Single-pane windows can be vulnerable to cracking or shattering when exposed to high-pressure water streams. In addition, pressure washing can harm the seals around windows, leading to drafts and water leaks. For a safer window cleaning method, consider using a gentler approach such as a squeegee and a suitable cleaning solution like a DIY vinegar spray.
When it comes to outdoor lights, while they typically have seals to protect against rain, these seals may not withstand the intense pressure of a pressure washer. Penetration of these seals by strong water forces can result in electrical failures or corrosion. To clean outdoor lights safely, turn off the power and use a damp cloth to wipe them down.
It is essential to avoid using a pressure washer on any exterior home components that contain electrical parts, such as HVAC units, generators, meters, and electrical panels. The force of the water can lead to various issues, including bending air conditioner coils, causing short circuits, power outages, or even fires.
While most pools and their surrounding areas can handle pressure washing, it is crucial to avoid pressure washing vinyl and fiberglass pool liners as the force can damage or weaken these materials. Stick to manual scrubbing or consult a pool specialist for the best cleaning method if uncertain.
Certain outdoor furniture, like sturdy plastic, metal, or resin pieces, can withstand pressure washing, but items made from natural materials such as wicker and teak are too delicate for this method. The high pressure of the water can strip finishes, cause cracks, or weaken joints. Instead, use a soft brush and mild soap for cleaning these delicate pieces.
It’s best to refrain from pressure washing outdoor cushions, pillows, umbrellas, and rugs as the force of the water can damage fabric, fray edges, and degrade protective coatings. Spot cleaning with gentle detergents or using a garden hose is a safer option for keeping these items clean and intact.
