Beyond the House: Unexpected Things You Can Pressure Wash (and Shouldn't!)

Introduction

Pressure washing is a powerful tool for cleaning the exterior of your home, blasting away years of grime and restoring surfaces to their former glory. But the power of a pressure washer can be tempting. It's easy to start eyeing everything around your property, wondering if that could use a good blast too. While pressure washing can tackle many outdoor cleaning tasks, it's crucial to know what should be pressure washed and what should absolutely be avoided. Using the wrong technique or targeting unsuitable surfaces can lead to costly damage. This guide will delve into the surprising items you can pressure wash, along with crucial warnings about what's off-limits, ensuring you use this cleaning powerhouse responsibly.

Main Content

Let's start with the good news: there are several unexpected items around your property that can benefit from pressure washing. Just remember that lower pressure settings and wider nozzles are often key to preventing damage.

Surprisingly Washable:

• Patio Furniture (Plastic or Metal): Plastic and metal patio furniture can accumulate dirt, mildew, and bird droppings. A gentle pressure washing can quickly restore them to their original condition. Always test an inconspicuous area first, and use a wide-angle nozzle with low pressure. Avoid blasting delicate welds on metal furniture.
• Fences (Wood or Vinyl): Fences, especially wood and vinyl, can become stained and discolored over time. Pressure washing can remove these stains and brighten the fence, improving your property's curb appeal. Be cautious with wood fences, as excessive pressure can splinter or damage the wood fibers. Maintain a safe distance and use a wider nozzle. For vinyl, a lower pressure setting is typically sufficient.
• Garage Doors: Garage doors, often overlooked, can become quite grimy. Pressure washing can safely remove dirt, grime, and mildew. Use a wide-angle nozzle and a lower pressure setting to avoid damaging the paint or any seals around the door.
• Playground Equipment: Children's play sets can harbor dirt, germs, and algae. Pressure washing is an effective way to sanitize and clean them. Be sure to use a gentle setting and allow the equipment to dry thoroughly before allowing children to use it again.
• Statues and Garden Ornaments: Concrete, stone, or durable plastic statues and garden ornaments can be cleaned with pressure washing. Delicate or easily damaged ornaments should be avoided. Always test in an inconspicuous area.

Things to Absolutely AVOID Pressure Washing:

• Painted Surfaces (Especially Lead Paint): Pressure washing painted surfaces, particularly those with older paint, can easily strip the paint away. This is especially dangerous if the paint contains lead, as it can release harmful particles into the air. Avoid pressure washing houses with old paint or surfaces that are peeling.
• Electrical Panels and Meters: Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Never pressure wash electrical panels, meters, or any exposed electrical wiring. The risk of electrocution is too high.
• Air Conditioning Units: While you can carefully clean the coils with a specialized coil cleaner and a very low-pressure nozzle held at a considerable distance, it's generally best to avoid pressure washing your air conditioning unit entirely. The delicate fins can be easily bent or damaged, reducing the unit's efficiency and potentially requiring costly repairs.
• Asphalt Shingle Roofs: Pressure washing asphalt shingle roofs can remove the protective granules, shortening the roof's lifespan and voiding warranties. It can also force water under the shingles, leading to leaks.
• Cars and Other Vehicles: While some people do pressure wash their vehicles, it's generally not recommended. The high pressure can damage the paint and clear coat. Use a regular garden hose and car wash soap instead.
• Living Things: This should be obvious, but never point a pressure washer at plants, animals, or people. The force of the water can cause serious injury.

Tips for Safe and Effective Pressure Washing:

• Start with a Low Pressure Setting: Always begin with the lowest pressure setting and gradually increase it as needed.
• Use the Right Nozzle: Different nozzles produce different spray patterns and pressures. Choose the appropriate nozzle for the task at hand. Wide-angle nozzles are generally safer for delicate surfaces.
• Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep a safe distance between the nozzle and the surface you're cleaning. The closer you are, the more intense the pressure.
• Test in an Inconspicuous Area: Before pressure washing an entire surface, test a small, hidden area to ensure that the pressure isn't too high and that the surface can withstand the cleaning.
• Wear Protective Gear: Always wear eye protection and closed-toe shoes when pressure washing. Consider wearing gloves and hearing protection as well.

Key Takeaways

• Pressure washing is a powerful cleaning tool, but it can also be damaging if used improperly.
• Certain unexpected items, like patio furniture and fences, can benefit from pressure washing with the right technique.
• Avoid pressure washing painted surfaces, electrical panels, air conditioning units, asphalt shingle roofs, and living things.
• Always start with a low pressure setting, use the appropriate nozzle, and maintain a safe distance.
• Testing in an inconspicuous area first is crucial to preventing damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What pressure setting should I use for pressure washing my deck?

A low-pressure setting (around 500-800 PSI) is generally recommended for wood decks. Use a wide-angle nozzle and keep a safe distance to avoid damaging the wood.

2. Can I use bleach in my pressure washer?

Yes, some pressure washers have a detergent tank that can be used with bleach. However, always dilute the bleach properly and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Be sure to rinse the surface thoroughly afterward.

3. How often should I pressure wash my house?

Most houses should be pressure washed every 1-2 years, depending on the climate and how quickly dirt and mildew accumulate.

4. Is pressure washing the same as power washing?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but power washing uses heated water, while pressure washing uses unheated water. Power washing is more effective at removing tough stains and grease.

5. Can pressure washing damage concrete? Yes, excessive pressure or using the wrong nozzle can damage concrete, etching the surface or even causing pitting.

Conclusion

Pressure washing can be a fantastic way to revitalize your outdoor spaces, but it's essential to approach it with caution and knowledge. By understanding what you can and cannot pressure wash, and by using the proper techniques, you can achieve impressive cleaning results without causing damage to your property. Remember, when in doubt, consulting a professional is always the safest option.

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