Continuing from Top Myths About Power Washing Debunked (Part Three), today we are tackling myth 10 and here we dig down to the details to help explain and debunk.
Myth 10: No Prep Required
Fact: Proper Preparation Is Essential
One of the most common misconceptions about power washing is that you can just fire up the machine and start blasting away without any prior preparation. While it’s true that power washing is a straightforward process, proper preparation is crucial for ensuring that the job is done safely and effectively. Taking the time to prep the area can make a significant difference in the quality of the results, prevent damage to your property, and reduce the risk of accidents during the cleaning process.
1. Protecting Your Belongings
Power washing can be a powerful cleaning method, but it’s also capable of causing damage if precautions aren’t taken. The high-pressure water can easily knock over or damage items that aren’t removed from the cleaning area. Before you begin power washing, it’s important to remove outdoor furniture, grills, potted plants, and any other loose items from the vicinity. Even lightweight objects like garden tools or toys can be damaged or become hazards if left in the area. By clearing the space, you not only protect your belongings but also create a more efficient and obstruction-free cleaning zone.
2. Covering Plants and Landscaping
Your landscaping is one of the most vulnerable aspects of your property when it comes to power washing. While eco-friendly detergents can help reduce the impact on plants, the force of the water alone can damage delicate flowers, shrubs, and small trees. To protect your landscaping, cover plants and flower beds with tarps or plastic sheeting. This will shield them from both the high-pressure water and any cleaning chemicals that might be used. In addition, avoid power washing directly over soil beds where water runoff could disrupt your plants’ root systems.
3. Securing Electrical Outlets and Fixtures
Water and electricity don’t mix, which is why it’s essential to secure any electrical outlets, lighting fixtures, and wiring that might be exposed during power washing. Outdoor electrical outlets should be covered with waterproof caps or plastic sheeting to prevent water from entering and causing electrical shorts or damage. Lighting fixtures, doorbells, and other electrical components should also be protected or avoided during the power washing process. This step not only safeguards your home’s electrical systems but also reduces the risk of electrocution during the cleaning.
4. Closing Windows and Doors
It might seem obvious, but ensuring all windows and doors are tightly closed before power washing is a critical step that’s often overlooked. High-pressure water can easily penetrate through small gaps around doors and windows, leading to water damage inside your home. Sealing up these openings helps prevent unwanted moisture from getting into your home’s interior, where it can cause issues like mold, mildew, or water stains on walls and floors.
5. Pre-Treating Stubborn Stains
While power washing is excellent for removing dirt and grime, some stains—like oil, rust, or mold—might require pre-treatment to be fully removed. Applying a specialized cleaner to these areas before you start power washing can help break down the stain, making it easier for the high-pressure water to wash it away. For example, applying a degreaser to oil stains on your driveway or a rust remover to metal fixtures can lead to a much more effective cleaning. Skipping this step can result in less satisfactory results and may require additional effort later.
6. Protecting Delicate Surfaces
Some surfaces, such as wood, vinyl siding, or painted areas, are more delicate and can be damaged by the intensity of power washing if not properly prepared. Before you start, assess the surfaces you’ll be cleaning and consider using lower pressure settings or soft washing techniques for areas that are more vulnerable. In some cases, it may be necessary to cover or mask off particularly fragile areas, such as painted trim, shutters, or glass windows, to avoid chipping paint or cracking delicate materials.
7. Sweeping and Clearing Debris
Before power washing, it’s a good idea to sweep away loose debris like leaves, dirt, and twigs from the area you plan to clean. This not only prevents the debris from being blasted around by the high-pressure water but also ensures that you’re focusing on the more stubborn grime beneath the surface. Clearing away the loose dirt first can make the actual power washing more effective and help you achieve a more thorough clean in less time.
8. Checking for Pre-Existing Damage
It’s important to inspect the area you plan to power wash for any pre-existing damage before you start. Cracked concrete, loose siding, or rotting wood can be further compromised by the pressure of the water. Identifying these issues in advance allows you to either repair them before cleaning or take extra care to avoid exacerbating the damage. For example, power washing a cracked driveway without sealing the cracks first could lead to water seeping in and making the cracks worse over time. Similarly, loose shingles on a roof should be repaired before cleaning to avoid dislodging them completely.
9. Directing Water Runoff
Proper preparation also involves considering where the water will go once you start cleaning. Water runoff can carry dirt, cleaning chemicals, and debris onto nearby surfaces, landscaping, or into storm drains. It’s important to direct the flow of water away from sensitive areas like flower beds or toward areas where drainage won’t cause problems. If you’re working in a commercial setting, make sure to adhere to local regulations regarding water runoff, especially when using cleaning solutions that could impact the environment.
10. Preparing Yourself for Safety
In addition to preparing the area, don’t forget to prepare yourself with the right safety gear. Power washing equipment can be dangerous if not handled properly, especially when working on ladders or with high-pressure settings. Wear protective goggles, gloves, and non-slip footwear to avoid accidents. If you’re working at heights, make sure you have a stable ladder or scaffolding, and never use a power washer while standing on an unstable surface. Proper preparation isn’t just about protecting your property—it’s about protecting yourself as well.
Power washing is an effective cleaning method, but proper preparation is essential to ensure safety, protect your belongings, and get the best results. By taking the time to remove obstacles, protect plants and fixtures, secure electrical outlets, and pre-treat stubborn stains, you’ll set yourself up for a more efficient and successful cleaning process. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in making sure the job is done right, with minimal risk of damage or accidents.
