Pressure Wash Your Troubles Away!

A pressure washer is an incredibly effective cleaning apparatus that can blast away stubborn dirt, mold, mildew and grime. Previously, the only way to clean large areas such as home exteriors, cars, drives and walkways was with a bucket of soapy water and plenty of elbow grease, but modern technology has made it far easier to perform these tasks. Although they may look simple enough, pressure washers can be dangerous if they are not used correctly, so it is important to be aware of exactly what type of jobs they can handle.

What is Pressure Washing?

Pressure washing involves aiming a jet of highly pressurized water at dirt and grime to remove stains almost immediately. Pressure washers can be powered by either gas or electricity and can vary widely in volume and strength. Most car washes use pressure washers to remove caked-on mud from underneath cars.

Why is it So Effective?

Pressure washing eliminates the need for scrubbing with brushes and harsh chemicals and can handle large areas in a short amount of time. Professional grade pressure washers can complete most jobs without any problems, but occasionally stubborn dirt may need to be pre-treated using a stain remover. As the machine features a flexible rubber hose, the water can penetrate hard to reach places such as drains, gutters and car engines. Different nozzles are available for a range of jobs to direct the water in a steady stream or fan shape to cover a greater surface area.

What Can I Use a Pressure Washer For?

There are practically endless amount of uses for a pressure washer, but it is important to use the right type of machine for the job. Electric washers are ideal for use inside the home for areas such as basement and garage floors, bathrooms, workshops and studios. Gas and petrol machines are more powerful but will give off toxic exhaust fumes, so they are only suitable for outside use. As well as cleaning your home’s exterior, car, boat, tool shed and furniture, pressure washers can also strip paint from fences and other wooden surfaces. According to Duggins Services, pressure washing removes mold and mildew from concrete drives and walkways and reduces the chance of slips and falls.

Can I Use One Myself?

Most home improvement stores stock a range of different pressure washers and many come with a detailed manual explaining how to operate them. However, it is important to exercise extreme caution when using a pressure washer as improper use can result in injury or even death. According to Hazmasters, industrial strength pressure washers fire water at speeds of up to 3,300 kilometers per hour, and even a slight slip of the hand can force air, dirt and bacteria into the skin.

Always test a small, inconspicuous area of the material you wish to clean before using a pressure washer. Some machines are extremely strong and can damage porous surfaces such as wood and plaster. If you are not comfortable using a pressure washer, then it is advisable to hire a professional company to complete the job for you to ensure the safety of you and your property.