Have you seen some good-looking houses in your neighbourhood or on Pinterest and wondered what makes the place stand out?
Perhaps it is an outcome of pressure cleaning!
Pressure cleaning is one of the most effective ways to keep your home’s exterior looking fresh and well-maintained. Whether tackling dirt, grime, mould, or stains, using a pressure washer correctly can make a huge difference in your results.
However, without the proper techniques, you could damage your surfaces or fail to achieve a thorough cleaning. Don’t worry if you are unsure what to look for; we, Refined Exterior Cleaning, are here to walk you through some effective and safe pressure cleaning tips.
1. Choose the Right Pressure Washer
Pressure washers come in different power levels, usually measured in PSI (pounds per square inch). Selecting the correct pressure is crucial for effective cleaning without causing damage.
- Light-duty (1,300-1,900 PSI): Suitable for small jobs like cleaning outdoor furniture, decks, or cars.
- Medium-duty (2,000-2,800 PSI): Works well for home exteriors, fences, and driveways.
- Heavy-duty (2,900+ PSI): Best for tough stains, large concrete areas, and industrial cleaning.
If unsure about the proper pressure level, start with a lower PSI and gradually increase as needed.
2. Use the Correct Nozzle
Different nozzles produce varying spray patterns, affecting both pressure and cleaning effectiveness. Here’s a quick guide:
- 0-degree nozzle (red tip): Delivers the highest pressure in a pinpoint stream—use with caution to avoid damage.
- 15-degree nozzle (yellow tip): Good for removing tough stains and debris from hard surfaces like concrete.
- 25-degree nozzle (green tip): Ideal for general cleaning, including patios, decks, and fences.
- 40-degree nozzle (white tip): Best for delicate surfaces like windows and siding.
- Soap nozzle (black tip): Designed to apply detergents before rinsing.
3. Pre-treat stains for a Deeper Clean
Pre-treating the area can make a big difference for stubborn stains caused by oil, mould, mildew, or algae. Use a cleaning solution suitable for your surface type, let it sit for a few minutes, and then rinse it with the pressure washer.
- Concrete stains: Use a degreaser for oil spills.
- Mould and mildew: A mix of water and bleach (1:4 ratio) can help eliminate organic growth.
- Wood surfaces: Use a specialised wood cleaner to avoid damage.
4. Maintain the Right Distance
Did you know that holding the pressure washer too close can cause damage, while standing too far away may not clean effectively? A good rule of thumb is:
- 6-12 inches away for concrete and driveways.
- 12-18 inches away for wood decks and fences.
- 18+ inches away for windows, siding, and painted surfaces.
Always test on a small, inconspicuous area before proceeding with the full clean.
5. Work in Sections and Overlap Strokes
For the best results, clean in sections rather than attempting to cover a large area at once. Overlapping each stroke slightly ensures you don’t miss any spots and avoids streaking. Move in a consistent direction—either horizontally or vertically—depending on the surface.
6. Use a Gentle Approach for Delicate Surfaces
If you’re pressure cleaning surfaces like painted walls, timber decks, or soft stone pathways, lower the pressure and use a wide-angle nozzle (40-degree). High-pressure jets can strip paint, splinter wood, or erode softer surfaces.
7. Rinse Thoroughly and Dry Properly
After washing, rinse the area with clean water to remove any remaining detergent or debris. If cleaning driveways or patios, consider using a broom to push excess water off to speed up drying.
Allow sufficient drying time for wooden decks or siding before applying a protective sealant or paint if needed.
8. Safety First: Wear Protective Gear
Pressure washers can be powerful, so safety should be a priority. Always wear:
- Protective eyewear to shield against debris.
- Closed-toe shoes prevent injuries.
- Gloves for better grip and protection.
Avoid pointing the spray at yourself, others, or fragile objects like glass windows.
9. Know When to Call Professionals
While DIY pressure cleaning can be enjoyable, some jobs require expert handling. At Refined Exterior Cleaning, we offer professional cleaning services.
Our experienced team uses commercial-grade equipment and eco-friendly solutions to ensure a thorough, damage-free service. So if you have pets, a garden, or furry or feathery friends who visit your home, you need not worry about the impact on them.
We are tough only on the dirt and gentle on your property. We also handle tricky areas like high walls, roof tiles, or delicate surfaces that require special care and safe handling.
Melbourne’s Trusted Choice for Exterior Cleaning
Pressure cleaning is a powerful way to enhance your home’s curb appeal and protect surfaces from long-term damage. You can achieve professional-grade results by following these tips: choosing the right washer, using proper nozzles, pre-treating stains, and maintaining safe cleaning distances.
If you’re looking for hassle-free, high-quality pressure cleaning, Refined Exterior Cleaning is here to help. Contact us today for expert exterior cleaning services that leave your home spotless and refreshed!
