Pressure washing
Derby, East Midlans

The ultimate guide to pressure washing

Hey there! If you’re here, you’re probably curious about pressure washing—whether it’s the magic it can do to a grimy patio or the pros and cons of DIYing it versus calling in the experts. Let’s dive into everything you need to know, with plenty of tips, data, and friendly advice!

Tools: comparing DIY and professional equipment

DIY pressure washers are super handy and affordable. They usually offer pressures between 1,300 and 2,400 PSI and use about 8 litres of water per minute. These are perfect for lighter jobs like cleaning cars or garden furniture.

But for big, tough jobs, pros have the edge. Their machines crank up the power to over 3,000 PSI (sometimes even 8,000 PSI!) and use fancy attachments like surface cleaners. They use approx. 21 liters of water per minute.

So, while a £200 DIY machine can do a decent job, a pro’s £6,000 kit will tackle heavy-duty grime much faster and with fewer risks. It all depends on what you need to clean!

Risks: DIY mishaps vs professional expertise

Pressure washers are powerful—sometimes a little too powerful. If you’re not careful, you could:

• Damage surfaces: Using too much pressure can strip paint, gouge wood, or even crack concrete.
• Waste water: DIY washers can use up to 1,500 litres per hour, and poor technique means even more wasted water.
• Injure yourself: Did you know water jets at just 1,500 PSI can break the skin? Yikes!

Meanwhile, professionals not only avoid these issues but they also use eco-friendly detergents to keep things green.

Materials used: DIY vs professional methods

DIYers typically use water and basic soaps or detergents. These can work fine, but they’re not always the best fit for tough stains or delicate surfaces. For example, some generic cleaners can actually harm materials like limestone or painted wood.

Professionals have a whole arsenal of specialised products:

• Biodegradable detergents: Eco-friendly and safe for most surfaces.
• Industrial degreasers: Great for oily driveways.
• pH-neutral cleaners: Perfect for delicate surfaces like marble.

They also use hot water systems, which can cut water use by 30% while giving better results. Pretty clever, huh?

Advice for DIY pressure washing

If you’re going the DIY route, here are some golden rules to keep you safe and efficient:

• Start with low pressure and test on a small area before going full blast.
• Use the right nozzle: Wide sprays are gentler, while narrow jets tackle tough grime.

What pressure washing can be used for

Pressure washing is incredibly versatile! Here are just a few things it can tackle:

• Driveways and walkways: Remove oil stains, mould, and dirt (2,500–3,000 PSI).
• Decks and fences: Gently clean wood without gouging (500–1,200 PSI).
• Vehicles: A low-pressure wash (1,200–1,900 PSI) saves time and water—only about 200 litres per car.
• House exteriors: Blast off mildew and grime (1,500–2,500 PSI).
• Graffiti removal: For stubborn tags, professionals use 3,000+ PSI and hot water.

When to do it and when not to

Timing is everything! Here’s when to grab your pressure washer and when to leave it in the shed:

• Best times: Spring and summer are ideal—dry weather helps surfaces dry faster.
• Worst times: Freezing temperatures can lead to cracks when water seeps into surfaces and freezes.

What not to try with pressure washing

Some things just aren’t meant to be pressure-washed. Avoid using it on:

• Electrical components: Think outdoor lights or air conditioners.
• Delicate surfaces: Glass, thin plastic, or fabric can be ruined by high pressure.
• Roof shingles: Too much pressure can dislodge them or strip protective granules.

Surfaces it should never be used on

Pressure washing can do serious damage to certain surfaces. Steer clear of:

• Asphalt shingles: High-pressure jets strip away the protective granules.
• Old or weak concrete: It’s just asking for cracks.
• Painted surfaces: Unless you’re prepping for a repaint, it’s better to avoid peeling your paint away.

Pressure washing is an amazing tool when used correctly, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Whether you’re tackling it yourself or calling in the experts, now you’ve got the know-how to make the most of it. Happy cleaning!