Pressure Washing | Techniques to Follow & Mistakes to Avoid

Over time, dust, mould, moss, and all kinds of grime build up. Turning once-pristine surfaces into a dirty, slippery mess. Not only does this make your home look neglected. But also speed up the wear and tear on your surfaces.

The good news? You don’t have to live with it.

There is a magic wand called pressure washing for dirt and stains. Blasting away years of filth in just minutes. But here’s the catch. If you don’t do it right, you can damage your surfaces instead of cleaning them.

So, we have listed the dos and don’ts to guide you about the right technique.

At Infinity Flooring, we’ve been perfecting the art of high pressure cleaning services in Perth for over 15 years. If you need to restore your home’s delicate surfaces with soft wash & pressure cleaning. We know how to do it without the risk of damage.

So, let’s get into the art of pressure washing!

Pressure Washing: How Does It Work?

Pressure washing uses a motor-powered pump to propel water at high speeds. Effectively breaking down dirt, grime, and stains. Depending on the type of surface, different pressure levels and nozzles are used to reduce the risk of damage.

The process includes:

For delicate surfaces like softwood, limestone, or painted exteriors. Soft wash & pressure cleaning techniques are used. Means lower pressure and special cleaning solutions clean the area without any damage.

Dos and Don’ts of High Pressure Cleaning

Using a high pressure cleaning service is effective. But improper use can result in surface damage or personal injury. Let’s find out what you should & shouldn’t do.

Dos:

Following practices can give you a thorough cleaning and protect your property.

1. Wear Safety Gear Before Cleaning

Pressure washers generate high-speed water jets. That can cut through surfaces and even skin. Always wear:

• Safety goggles to protect your eyes from debris
• Gloves to shield your hands from chemicals and high-pressure water
• Boots with a good grip to prevent slipping on wet surfaces
• Long-sleeved clothing to avoid accidental abrasions

So, injuries can be prevented.

2. Test Your Washer in a Discreet Area First

Before going on full-throttle and cleaning a large visible area. Test the pressure cleaning service on a small, hidden section.

This will verify that the pressure level is safe for the surface and prevent unexpected damage. Especially on delicate materials like sandstone or painted surfaces.

3. Start Slow & Gradually Increase Pressure

Using too much pressure too quickly can cause irreversible damage.

Begin at a lower pressure and gradually build up as needed. Until you get the required amount of cleaning. Going hard too fast can turn your beautiful patio into a chipped mess.

4. Keep Your Hands Steady During Washing

A steady hand is your best friend here.

Maintain stable & controlled movements to prevent streaking or uneven cleaning. Move in a consistent and overlapping pattern for uniform coverage.

5. Cover all the Electrical Components

Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Before starting pressure washing, check that:

• Outdoor power outlets and electrical appliances are covered with waterproof material
• Exposed wiring is safely tucked away
• Electrical fixtures, like outdoor lights, are turned off and protected

Always prioritise safety and pause the pressure cleaning ASAP if you suspect any damage.

Don’ts:

The following practices can mess up your cleaning process and even cause serious damage.

1. Don’t Stay Still When Pressure Hosing

Keeping the nozzle in one spot for too long is like sunburn for your driveway. i.e. etching or damaging the surface.

Keep the spray moving continuously for an even & uniform coverage. But it doesn’t mean you should leave any visible marks or gouges.

2. Don’t Stand Too Near the Surface to Be Cleaned

If you stand too close. The concentrated force of high pressure cleaning damages soft surfaces like wooden decks or brick mortar. Or you can get injured also.

Maintain a safe distance (30-50 cm) and adjust as needed.

3. Don’t Pressure Wash Windows, AC Units, Plants, & Stained Woods

Some materials are too fragile for high pressure cleaning services. E.g.

So, always keep the pressure hose away from these surfaces.

4. Don’t Use Excess Cleaning Solution or Hot Water

Using too much detergent can leave behind sticky residues that attract more dirt. Similarly, hot water can weaken some surfaces like asphalt driveways.

Stick to recommended cleaning solutions and cold or lukewarm water. Rely mainly on the pressure of water for cleaning.

5. Don’t Use a Single Nozzle for Every Area

Different surfaces require different nozzle types. E.g.

Choose the correct nozzle to prevent unnecessary damage and maximise efficiency.

Remember that apart from the precautions, there are still chances of accidents due to novice handling. If you want a completely safe & efficient procedure, get help from professional high pressure cleaning Perth.

Why Professional Pressure Cleaning is the Best Choice

Hiring high pressure cleaning professionals Perth offers several advantages. E.g.

• Expert Technique: Professionals know how to handle different surfaces without causing damage.
• Time-Saving: Large areas can be cleaned quickly and efficiently.
• Eco-Friendly Cleaning: Professionals use biodegradable solutions and water-saving techniques.
• Prevention of Costly Repairs: Proper washing techniques can avoid damages, saving expensive repairs.

Searching for Affordable Pressure Cleaning Perth?

Clean, Restore and Protect Your Floors with Infinity Flooring

At Infinity Flooring, we specialise in high pressure cleaning and sealing.

So, your surfaces are not only spotless but also protected from future damage. We use expert techniques and advanced materials with precision and care. Delivering long-lasting results for residential and commercial properties.

Get in touch with us for professional pressure washing Perth.

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FAQs About Pressure Washing

1. What Should I Do Before Pressure Washing?

Before starting a pressure washing session, proper preparation is necessary. Begin by clearing the area of any delicate items and covering the electrical fixtures. Sweep away debris like leaves and dirt to prevent clogging of the pressure washer.

2. What’s the Difference Between Pressure Washing & Power Washing?

Pressure washing uses normal or lukewarm water to remove dirt, mildew, and grime from surfaces like driveways, patios, and fences.

Power washing, on the other hand, uses heated water. It is more effective for grease, oil stains, and stubborn buildup. Having its application in industrial cleaning.

3. What PSI Is Safe for Washing a House?

House siding requires a PSI between 1,200 and 1,500 to remove dirt without damaging the material. Wooden decks and fences are more delicate and should be cleaned with a PSI range of 500 to 1,200 to prevent splintering.

Keep in mind that these are just general ranges and can vary with flooring material.

4. How Does Detergent Improve Pressure Cleaning?

Using detergent in pressure washing enhances the cleaning process. It breaks down dirt, grease, and grime more effectively than water alone. It also helps loosen stubborn contaminants, making them easier to rinse away.