An Intro to PW
What is Pressure / Power Washing?
Pressure and power washing are terms which are used interchangeably to describe washing with (either hot or cold) pressurized water. The washing process removes mold, mildew, stains, vegetation, and dirt quickly and safely. An experienced operator can perform these services without damaging your deck, pavers, concrete, or the siding of your home. Pressure washing can extend the life of your deck and pavers by removing the elements which causes their decay. Pressure washing also helps cosmetically as your property can be restored to like new condition. This is what we call restoration. I am a deck restoration professional who can help you increase your curb appeal by cleaning your home, sidewalks, patios, gazebos, and driveway. Pressure washing keeps your home looking its best as it removes and retards mold and mildew growth. Professional equipment and professional cleaning solutions can make a huge difference in the way you and others view your property.
Why Should I Consider Hiring a Pressure Washing Professional?
Many homeowners are lead to believe that power washing is an easy do it yourself type project. This isn’t exactly a true picture. While many of us are handy at various activities, we may not be completely informed on how to do certain tasks in a timely manner. Most of these home shows don’t tell you that, as obvious as it is, you will surely:
· Get wet or splashed in the face
o With water
o With chemicals
o With mold or mildew
o With dirt or bird droppings
· Have to take your time learning about
o A Pressure washer and how to operate it?
o What pressure is safe for wood?
o What tips are used for concrete?
o Is it more important to have a higher psi rating or a higher GPM rating?
o Chemical solutions – Deck or Cement cleaners?
o Chemical solutions – Strippers?
o Chemical solutions – Brighteners \ Neutralizers?
o Chemical solutions and if they are harmful to your vegetation?
o Sealers – Clear, Semi-transparent, or Solid color?
o Sealers – Oil based, Water based, Acrylic?
o Sealers – When to apply, what happens if it rains?
· Injuries
o Do you know the pressure washer has enough force to cut you if you’re not careful?
o Do you know that when stripping a deck wood fibers come off and injure your eyes if you don’t have protective eye gear.
o Hoses break and can whip around (are you insured for this? I am)
o Do you know that cleaning solutions and especially deck stripping solutions can make the surface extremely slippery and you could slip and fall (not fun and it really does happen – often)
· Time
o What is your time worth?
o A professional can do the job correctly, on time, and on budget.
I’m not trying to scare you out of doing it yourself, but I do what you to think about all the aspects of doing it yourself. I also offer a homeowner’s special in which I wash/strip and you can stain/seal as 80% is the prep work for a long lasting finish.
