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Pressure Washers: Working 7 Wonders on Your Home's Exterior
April 18, 2010
When it comes to cleaning and home exteriors, sometimes all the scrubbing in the world doesn't compare to a high-pressure blast of water. The outside of your home is exposed to the elements all year round, making cleaning driveways, sidewalks, and siding no easy task. Pressure washers have long been a favorite of homeowners because of their ability to take care of big jobs effectively and with relative ease. Here are some of the best areas for homeowners to try out the magic of the pressure washer.
Driveways
Driveway cleaning is considered a major headache by most homeowners, but it doesn't have to be. Using a pressure washer along with a chemical driveway cleaner can rid your driveway of stubborn stains from mildew, car oil, and general wear and tear.
Sidewalks
Pressure washers can be a big help when cleaning sidewalks, which can be a time-consuming job otherwise. Remember that concrete driveways and sidewalks will require lower pressure to avoid causing any damage to the concrete.
Vinyl Siding
Homeowners will tell you that using a pressure washer on vinyl siding is the best way to make your home exterior look like new again. You'll be amazed how quickly and completely years of dirt and grime rinse away. Some experts advise keeping your movements fluid and standing back from the siding a bit to avoid damaging it.
Second-Story Windows
Leave your ladder in the garage and simply spray the second story windows while you're cleaning the home exterior. Just make sure all the windows are completely closed first.
Gutters
Again, you can avoid the awkward ladder dance by simply blasting away the gutter grime with your pressure washer.
Wood Decking
You have to be careful to use lower pressure on wood, but your pressure washer can still work wonders on the deck, as well. The tromping of muddy feet and the remnants of weekend projects all wash away revealing the clean deck you remember.
Outdoor Patio Furniture
Outdoor furniture can collect a good deal of dirt and debris, especially during colder months when the furniture may be used less. Instead of tediously washing every nook and cranny, use your pressure washer to blast the dirt away.
Keep in mind that pressure washers are extremely powerful tools and can damage certain surfaces if the pressure is too high. Be sure to wear safety goggles when using these devices, and also to read the instruction manual carefully. When used properly, however, pressure washers can transform your outdoor surfaces to look gleaming and good-as-new.
