Tips for Effectively Power Washing Your Home in Preparation For Exterior Painting

Power washing may be necessary before you start any exterior painting process. It can effectively clean off excess dirt and debris so that you can then apply a new coat of paint.

Even if you are not doing it for residential exterior painting, power washing will improve the curb appeal of your home. The dust and grime can dull the colors on the siding and walls of the building. Power washing is not a preserve of commercial establishments. Although on bigger sites, it can make the work of keeping the premises clean and pristine easier.

One downside with power washing is the amount of water you have to use. Mold and mildew may accumulate if the process is not done correctly. You may hire an external painting services company to carry out the project. Here are some tips on effective power washing.

Effects of High Pressure

You must recognize that using a pressure washer requires skill. The force of water coming out of the equipment is several times greater than from tap water. Unless you have the know-how, you should consider getting a professional from a company for residential painting in Katy, TX.

Some of the issues you may encounter as you use a power washer include:

Tap water has an average pressure rating of about 45 to 80 psi. Your power washer may be between 2,000 and 3,000 psi in comparison. The force is powerful enough to leave etch marks on wood on your siding or furnishings.

The other problem is that moisture can accumulate on the walls, and it may take time before it dries up. After using a power washer, it may take several days before you can commence your exterior painting jobs.

Keep in mind that high pressure can get into crevices; expand and/or rupture them, thereby causing leakages. While it can loosen old paint, it may also cause shingles to fall-off, or it could damage windows, panels, doors, and their components.

Maximizing Power Washing Efficiency

The first step before cleaning starts is to ensure that you seal small holes and crevices. The water-jet can rapture and expand small spaces. If you are using a filler, you ought to give it time to let it set.

Always be conscious of the pressure level. Some areas around your home are sensitive to water, especially when it moves with a lot of force behind it. The cleaner may make modifications to the equipment as they go along. Using different patterns and movements, depending on materials, sensitive areas can be isolated.

However, professionals in residential exterior painting jobs do not rely on power washing alone. There may be situations where hand-scrapping is necessary. Also, professionals may use agents to remove loose paint and oil stains on the walls. Plus, they remove gloss on an existing coat.

In Conclusion

It is advisable to assess the building you want to clean with a power washer. Overlooking surface preparation can compromise the appearance of the final coat of paint. For the best results, consider hiring an exterior painting professional for quality power washing before exterior or even interior painting.