Pressure Washing Fishers

Frequently Asked Questions About Pressure Washing

What type of pressure washer do I need for my home?

The type of pressure washer best suited for your home depends on the cleaning tasks you intend to perform:

• Electric Pressure Washers: Suitable for light-duty cleaning tasks like washing cars, patios, or fences. They are less powerful than gas pressure washers but are generally more affordable and easier to operate.
• Gas Pressure Washers: More powerful than electric pressure washers, making them suitable for heavier cleaning tasks like removing stubborn stains, cleaning driveways, or stripping paint.
• PSI and GPM: Consider the PSI (Pounds per Square Inch) and GPM (Gallons per Minute) ratings. Higher PSI and GPM indicate a more powerful pressure washer. For most home cleaning tasks, a pressure washer with a PSI of 2000-3000 and a GPM of 2-3 is sufficient.

If you're unsure about the type of pressure washer best suited for your needs, consult with a pressure washing professional or a home improvement specialist.

Can pressure washing damage my plants?

Yes, pressure washing can damage plants and landscaping if not done carefully. The high pressure and harsh chemicals in cleaning solutions can harm or kill plants:

• Cover or Shield Plants: Before pressure washing, cover or shield delicate plants and landscaping with tarps, plastic sheeting, or painter's tape to protect them from water spray and chemicals.
• Use Lower Pressure Settings: If pressure washing near plants, use lower pressure settings and avoid directing the spray directly at them.
• Rinse Plants with Water: After pressure washing, rinse plants thoroughly with plain water to dilute any chemicals that may have landed on them.
• Choose Plant-Safe Cleaning Solutions: If using cleaning solutions, opt for environmentally friendly or plant-safe options whenever possible.

Taking these precautions minimizes the risk of damage to your plants and landscaping during pressure washing.

Can pressure washing damage my deck?

Pressure washing can damage wood decks if done improperly. High pressure can etch or splinter the wood, leading to a rough and uneven surface.

• Soft Washing: Soft washing is generally recommended for wood decks as it uses lower pressure and specialized cleaning solutions to safely remove dirt, mildew, and algae without causing damage.
• Lower Pressure Setting: If using a pressure washer on a wood deck, use a lower pressure setting (around 1500 PSI) and a wide-angle nozzle (25-40 degrees).
• Maintain Distance: Hold the nozzle at least 12 inches away from the deck surface to prevent etching or splintering.
• Professional Pressure Washing: If you're unsure about pressure washing your deck safely, hire a professional pressure washing company with experience in cleaning wood surfaces.

By using the right cleaning method and precautions, you can effectively clean your wood deck without causing damage and prolong its lifespan.

What questions should I ask a pressure washing contractor before hiring them?

Before hiring a pressure washing contractor, asking the right questions helps ensure they meet your needs and expectations:

• Experience: 'How long have you been in business, and what types of pressure washing projects do you specialize in?'
• Licensing and Insurance: 'Are you licensed, insured, and bonded? Can I see proof of coverage?'
• Equipment and Techniques: 'What type of pressure washer do you use? What cleaning solutions do you use, and are they safe for my surfaces?'
• Safety Precautions: 'What safety precautions do you take during pressure washing?'
• Surface Preparation: 'Will you need to move any furniture or objects before pressure washing?'
• Water Usage: 'Do you use a water reclamation system or other methods to conserve water?'
• Cleanup: 'How do you handle cleanup after pressure washing?'
• Guarantees: 'Do you offer a satisfaction guarantee?'
• References: 'Can you provide references from previous clients?'

By asking these questions, you can gather valuable information and choose a pressure washing contractor that meets your requirements.