What cannot be power washed?
Power washing, or pressure washing, is a great way to get rid of dirt, grime, mould and mildew from various surfaces. Hot water pressure washers or cold water pressure washers have a powerful machine to tackle tough stains and oil stains. But not all surfaces can handle high pressure water jetting. Using a power washer on the wrong material can damage the structure, remove protective coatings or create moisture damage. In this pressure washer guide, we will go over what can’t be power washed, alternative methods and must-have tools for proper care.
Delicate and Antique Wood
Power washing is great for wood surfaces like a wooden deck, but high pressure water on fragile surfaces like antique furniture or untreated wood can be damaging. The high-pressure Power-washing asphalt shingles can damage them by loosening the granules that protect them from UV and harsh weather, stream can strip away finishes, cause splintering or warp the surface.
Alternative Method: Instead of power washing, use a surface cleaner, soft bristle brush, warm water and a professional cleaning solution to gently clean while preserving the wood surface.
Asphalt Shingles on Roofs
Power-washing asphalt shingles can damage them by loosening the granules that protect them from UV and harsh weather. High-pressure cleaning equipment can force water underneath the shingles, causing built-up pressure, water supply issues and moisture damage. High pressure cleaning equipment can force water underneath the shingles causing built up pressure, water supply issues and moisture damage.
Alternative Method: Low pressure with a garden hose, soft wash system and wash solution can clean asphalt roof shingles without damaging them.
Old or Cracked Concrete Surfaces
Power washing old or cracked concrete patios or concrete driveway cleaning can make existing damage worse. High pressure water can get into cracks and loosen the material and make the surface more prone to further wear and tear.
Alternative Method: Use a pressure washer wand with low pressure, belt driven pressure washer and surface cleaner to clean concrete surfaces without putting pressure on cracks.
Electrical Fixtures and Equipment
Electrical items like outdoor light fixtures, electric machines and air conditioner compressors should never be power washed. Water flow from a power washer can cause power interruptions, short circuits and electrical damage.
Alternative Method: Use a dry cloth, glass cleaner or damp sponge to clean light fixtures and electrical equipment without damaging them.
Vehicles with Sensitive Paint Jobs
Power washing can be used to clean cars but using a high pressure nozzle on cars with custom or aging paint can strip the paint off causing structural damage and need for a new paint job.
Alternative Method: Standard car wash with a spray wand, extension wand, auto glass cleaner and a professional cleaning solution can clean vehicles while preserving the look.
Painted and Stained Outdoor Furniture
High pressure water jetting can strip the paint and stain off outdoor furniture and cause premature wear and tear.
Alternative Method: Instead of power washing, use a wash solution, warm water and a garden hose to gently clean painted and stained wood patio furniture.
Windows and Glass Panels
High pressure water on auto glass, windows or light fixtures can crack and pressure rate. Water pressure can strip away protective coatings and cause fogging and leaks.
Alternative Method: A squeegee, aluminium extension poles and a glass cleaner can safely remove dirt without damaging the surface.
Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters are designed for rainwater not high pressure spray. Cleaning gutters with a pressure hose can loosen fasteners, bend the metal and dislodge gutters from the house.
Alternative Method: Order professional gutter cleaning or use garden hose with a 25 degree spray pattern attachment tool or manually removing debris is a safer approach.
Plants and Landscaping Features
High pressure water can damage plants, strip bark from trees and erode soil around garden paths and garden furniture.
Alternative Method: A light mist spray from a garden hose or hand watering with clean water can remove encrusted dirt and fresh tree sap without harming plants.
Soft and Porous Materials
Power washing fabric such as outdoor cushions, plastic surfaces and leather furniture can cause tears, colour fade and moisture damage.
Alternative Method: Machine wash, spot clean with mild detergent or use a soft brush with warm water.
Conclusion
Power washing is a quick and easy way to clean many exterior surfaces but using high pressure on fragile materials can cause permanent damage. By knowing what can’t be power washed and choosing the right type of pressure washer or pressure washer accessories you can clean safely and maintain curb appeal.
FAQ
Can I power wash my wood deck?
Yes but with care. Use low pressure to prevent splintering and stripping of the wood finish.
Is it safe to power wash my car?
Only if you use a cold water pressure washer with low pressure. High pressure can damage the paint and clear coat.
Can I power wash my brick house?
Yes but not high pressure, it can remove mortar between the bricks and cause structural damage.
How do I clean my roof without power washing?
Soft wash system with a pressure washer pump, professional pressure washing Melbourne services and guide on pressure washers to remove algae and dirt without damaging asphalt roof shingles.
How do I clean windows?
A squeegee, glass cleaner and extension wand or aluminium extension poles.