How to pressure wash a house

Safety first: The non-negotiables

Safety is the most important consideration. Pressure washers are powerful equipment requiring careful handling. Here are some crucial safety tips to keep in mind:

1. Wear safety gear: Wear safety glasses, gloves, waterproof footwear, ear protection for gas units, and long sleeves/pants.
2. Handle with care: A pressure washer is not a toy. Never point the nozzle at people or animals.
3. Stay clear of electrical hazards: Keep the wand at least 6 feet from electrical wires and never spray into outlets, as this can create a serious electrocution risk.
4. Avoid over-pressurizing: Pressure washers can be intense. Be careful not to over-pressurize the surface you’re cleaning, as this could cause damage. Start with a low pressure setting and increase it gradually if needed.
5. Watch for lead paint: Surfaces painted before 1978 may contain lead paint, and pressure washing can release dangerous lead dust or chips, so it’s advisable to hire a professional rather than attempt this yourself.
6. Skip the ladder: Never use a ladder while running a pressure washer. For multi-story homes, use extension or telescoping wands instead to safely reach upper levels.
7. Ensure dry surfaces: Always make sure the surface you’re about to clean is dry and free from ice. Cleaning a wet or icy surface can lead to accidents and injuries.

How to pressure wash a house

Step 1: Preparing the house

The first step towards achieving a squeaky-clean house exterior is preparation. Here’s what you need to do:

• Clear the area: Remove any furniture, potted plants, or other objects that might be near the house’s exterior. This gives unobstructed access. While clearing, inspect the work area for cracks in the exterior surface and any exposed electrical wiring that could be damaged by high-pressure water.
• Sweep off dirt and debris: Use a broom or a blower to get rid of loose dirt or debris from the walls.
• Apply a cleaning solution (if necessary): If the house is extremely dirty or has visible stains, consider applying a house cleaning solution before pressure washing. This helps in loosening the dirt and making it easier to clean. Remember to let it sit for about 10 to 20 minutes.

Step 2: Understanding the nozzle

The nozzle of your pressure washer isn’t just an outlet for the water; it’s a determinant of how effective your cleaning will be. Here’s what you need to know:

• Choose the correct nozzle: Attach the correct nozzle to the pressure washer. For most house surfaces, a 25-degree nozzle should work well.
• Change the nozzle: If you’re using a cleaning solution, remember to attach the soap dispenser nozzle attachment to the pressure washer.

Step 3: Powering up the pressure washer

Before turning on the pressure washer, squeeze the trigger for several seconds to confirm a steady water flow through the system, then power it on starting with a low pressure setting. If you are using an extension cord, elevate the connection point to prevent water from dripping toward the plug.

Step 4: Pressure washing – The main event

With everything in place, you’re ready to start washing. Follow these steps for a successful cleaning session:

• Start from the bottom: Begin pressure washing at the bottom of the house and gradually work your way up. Washing from the bottom up prevents soap and water streaks from running down and drying on unwashed sections.
• Maintain a sweeping motion: Keep your movements fluid. Use a sweeping motion and keep the nozzle moving at all times to avoid focusing too long on one spot, which could cause damage. Tilting the spray wand at a 45-degree angle while rinsing helps prevent water from seeping behind the siding and ensures the spray is directed away from openings, gaps around doors and windows, and siding overlaps.
• Mind the distance: Maintain a distance of about 8 to 12 inches from the surface. This is close enough to clean effectively but far enough to prevent damage.

Step 5: Rinsing and drying

After pressure washing, it’s crucial to rinse off the house thoroughly. Here’s how to do it:

• Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the house with clean water to remove any residual dirt or cleaning solution. Make sure you cover all the areas you’ve cleaned.
• Allow it to dry: Let the house dry completely before using it again. This helps to prevent any dirt from sticking to the wet surfaces. If you’re planning to paint afterward, keep in mind that the exterior typically needs about two days to fully dry before painting.