If you notice dirt and buildup on your home’s exterior, you may think it’s time for a pressure washing. Depending on the surface, this may work, but there are many types of materials around your home that should never be pressure washed. Pressure washing uses very high pressure that can damage things like vinyl, wood, or paint. Before you start cleaning, here are a few things that should never be pressure washed.
Roofs and Gutters
There are very few roofing materials that may be able to withstand the pressure of a pressure washer. Most roofs are made out of shingles and other delicate material that can be ruined by a pressure washer. The small granules on shingles are easily knocked off which can take years off the lifespan of your roof. Pressure washers are so powerful they can even dent aluminum.
Gutters should also be avoided with a pressure washer. Most gutters are made from thin material that can be dented, warped, and damaged under the intense spray of a pressure washer.
Electrical Boxes and Meters
Water and electricity should never mix. When you pressure wash electrical boxes, that is the risk you take, though. Pressure washers have enough pressure that small amounts of water can flow through tiny openings in meters and electric boxes, ultimately putting you at risk of damaging equipment.
Vinyl and Wood Siding
With extra care, wood siding can be pressure washed effectively—but it is a risk. Wood siding often has small openings, especially near the roof, which can be enough to allow water to seep into the interior of your home.
Vinyl siding should never be pressure washed either. Vinyl is relatively soft and pressure washers with high settings can chip, damage, and even cut vinyl, resulting in entire sections of vinyl needing to be replaced.
Windows and Sealants
Never pressure wash windows. Don’t even get a pressure washer next to them. Windowpanes can easily handle rain, but high pressure will cause them to break or shatter. The sealant around windows can also be removed by pressure washers, which can lead to insulation problems and damage the integrity of your window.
Let Pressure Pros Take Care of Your House Washing
If you don’t want to risk damaging your property, give Top Notch Pressure Washing a call today at 908-415-4460. We use soft washing and low-pressure techniques on home exteriors to make sure they are cleaned effectively without damaging the surface underneath.
