Pro’s and Con’s of Pressure Washing DIY
Exploring DIY Pressure Washing: Evaluating the Advantages and Disadvantages
Algae growth on North side is common. This is a soft washing candidate.
Exterior Cleaning Woes: Unveiling the Green Menace
As homeowners, it's not uncommon to witness our beloved abodes gradually transforming into unrecognizable shades of green and black. The culprit behind this unwelcome transformation? Algae, moss, and mold that thrive on exterior surfaces due to moisture and lack of sunlight. In Long Island, NY, especially near the North Shore in towns like St James, Nissequogue, Setauket, Port Jefferson, Miller Place, Mt Sinai, Shoreham, Wading River and Rocky Point, NY, the moist sound air and towering oaks provide a damp cool environment for most of the year. This is the perfect breeding ground for algae, moss, mold and fungus growth.
Slippery Paver Patios and Walkways.
Algae and organic growth makes surfaces very slippery for the elderly.
The green invasion not only tarnishes the aesthetics of our homes but also poses potential risks especially to our elderly. Algae and mold can lead to slippery walkways, paver buckling and unevenness, damaged roof shingles, and compromised structural integrity if left unchecked. The sight of our once pristine exteriors being overrun by these green invaders is disheartening, prompting a deep-seated desire to restore the home to its former glory.
In this article, we will delve into the pro’s and con’s of DIY pressure washing and explore the intricacies of soft washing and power washing techniques and equipment.
Should I try Pressure or Soft Washing on my home?
Roof, Vinyl Siding and Paver Deck cleaning are a daunting task DIY.
Pressure washing and soft washing have gained popularity as an effective method for deeply cleaning various hardscapes such as driveways, pool decks, patio’s, vinyl siding, vinyl fences and sidewalks. Many homeowners are drawn to the DIY approach of pressure washing to save costs and handle cleaning tasks independently.
However, before embarking on this venture, it is crucial to assess the pros and cons of DIY pressure washing to ascertain its suitability for your specific requirements. In this article, we will analyze the benefits and drawbacks of DIY pressure washing, offering valuable insights to aid you in making an educated choice. Whether you are well-versed in DIY practices or new to the realm of pressure washing, understanding the advantages and disadvantages can assist you in achieving optimal outcomes while steering clear of potential challenges. Join us as we examine the practical advantages, possible risks, and key considerations linked to undertaking pressure washing endeavors on your own.
Concrete patio, surface cleaned and soft washed.
Pros of DIY Soft Washing and Pressure Washing
When it comes to maintaining the exterior of your home, DIY soft washing and pressure washing can be cost-effective and rewarding. Here are some advantages to consider:
Cost Savings: One of the most significant advantages of DIY soft washing and pressure washing is the cost savings. By investing in the equipment and doing the work yourself, you can avoid the expense of hiring professional services.
Convenience: You have the flexibility to schedule the cleaning at your convenience without relying on a third party. This flexibility allows you to address cleaning needs promptly, especially before special events or occasions.
Control: By doing the cleaning yourself, you have full control over the process. You can adjust the pressure, detergent strength, and technique based on the specific requirements of the surface being cleaned.
Learning Experience: DIY soft washing and pressure washing can be a great learning experience. You can acquire new skills, understand different cleaning products, and gain insights into maintaining your property effectively.
Immediate Results: With soft washing and pressure washing, you can see immediate results. The removal of dirt, grime, mold, and mildew can transform the appearance of your home in a short amount of time.
Preservation: Regular soft washing and pressure washing can help preserve the exterior surfaces of your home, preventing long-term damage and extending their lifespan.
Increased home Value: Regular DIY exterior cleaning maintenance is key to preserving and enhancing your home's beauty. By consistently investing time and effort into cleaning the exterior of your home, you can ensure that it maintains its appealing appearance for years to come. From washing the windows to soft washing the siding, maintaining a clean exterior not only boosts your home's curb appeal but also protects it from environmental damage. With dedication to regular upkeep, your home will shine with beauty and charm, making it a source of pride for you and your neighborhood. The new shine will signal care to potential buyers and save on repairs. Improve aesthetics and property value easily.
Disadvantages of Soft Washing and Pressure Washing DIY
Soft washing and pressure washing can be effective DIY methods for cleaning exterior surfaces, but using these techniques without the necessary equipment and experience can lead to several disadvantages:
Under Gunned, Under Timed: Most DIY’ers bite off more than they can chew! Cleaning multiple aspects of your home can be extremely daunting with DIY pressure washing machines and little to no experience. Pro’s have a great advantage with experience and efficient machinery that makes large tasks appear simple. Tackling large areas DIY will cost you many hours of punishment. Pressure washing is indeed a very physical endeavor.
Surface Damage: Inexperienced individuals may apply too much pressure or use the wrong cleaning solutions, leading to damage such as etching, chipping, or discoloration on surfaces like siding, decks, or concrete. When it comes to soft washing with chemicals, ensuring safety is paramount. Homeowners should be cautious and precise in their application to prevent any damage to gardens and plants. Overspraying chemical detergents can lead to unintended consequences, risking the health and longevity of precious greenery around the property. It is crucial to follow recommended guidelines, use appropriate equipment, and be attentive to the surrounding areas to maintain a balance between cleanliness and preservation.
Water Intrusion: Improper handling of the equipment can result in water getting into cracks, crevices, electrical or behind siding, causing moisture-related issues like mold, rot, or water stains.
Personal Injury: Using pressure washing equipment without experience can be dangerous. High-pressure water streams can cause injuries like cuts, bruises, eye injuries or even more severe harm if not handled correctly. Another disadvantage of soft washing and pressure washing is the physical demand it places on the person performing the task. Maneuvering the equipment, climbing ladders, and maintaining proper posture can lead to physical strain and fatigue. This may not be suitable for individuals with physical limitations or health concerns.
Cost: One of the main drawbacks of soft washing and pressure washing is the cost involved. Time is the largest cost. Large projects can consume a enormous amount of time making DIY cost prohibitive. Purchasing or renting the equipment can be expensive too, especially for high-quality machines. Additionally, the cost of time, detergent, water, and maintenance should be considered when making a decision to power wash.
Ineffective Cleaning: Without the knowledge of which methods and products are suitable for different surfaces, inexperienced individuals may not achieve the desired level of cleanliness, leading to unsatisfactory results. Professional washers come equipped with advanced machinery designed to deliver higher water volume, ensuring a thorough cleaning of high areas. This increased water output enables effective removal of dirt, grime, and other impurities from surfaces that are typically harder to reach. By utilizing this technology, professional washers can achieve superior cleaning results, leaving surfaces looking clean and well-maintained.
Time: Both soft washing and pressure washing can be time-consuming processes when you are inexperienced. Achieving thorough cleaning often requires going over the same area multiple times, especially for stubborn stains. This can be a drawback for individuals or businesses with limited time to dedicate to cleaning tasks.
While there are many advantages to DIY soft washing and pressure washing, it's essential to follow safety guidelines, use the right equipment, and understand the proper techniques to achieve the best results and avoid any damage to your property.
Dive In. DIY Power Washing.
Despite the daunting task that lies ahead, many of us harbor dreams of taking matters into our own hands and embarking on the journey of cleaning our home's exterior DIY style. The prospect of seeing the transformation from grimy green to clean and inviting is a powerful motivator, even if the endeavor promises to be dirty, time-consuming, and physically demanding.
Is Pressure Washing Difficult?
When tackling household projects, it's not uncommon for homeowners to find themselves in over their heads. The sheer scope of certain tasks can quickly become overwhelming, leaving many individuals feeling daunted and completion far in the distance. In such situations, enlisting the help of a professional cleaning service can provide much-needed relief. These experts possess the skills, tools, and experience necessary to tackle even the most sizable projects with efficiency and precision. By entrusting the cleaning to professionals, homeowners can save time, alleviate stress, and ensure that the job is completed thoroughly and to high standards.
We will explore some intricacies of exterior cleaning, explore effective cleaning methods, and uncover the satisfaction that comes from reviving the visual appeal of our homes one scrub at a time.
Pressure washing to remove and replace joint sand can be very difficult long project.
What machinery do I need to Soft Wash vs pressure wash?
To effectively pressure wash and soft wash, you will need specific machinery tailored for each task. For pressure washing, the essential equipment includes a pressure washer unit with adjustable nozzles or tips, a surface machine, a high-pressure hose, and PPE safety gear such as goggles, earphones and gloves. The pressure washer will provide the force needed to remove dirt, grime, and mold from surfaces like driveways, decks, and siding. Note: the surface material plays a significant role in determining the appropriate pressure needed for optimal results.
What Tip or Nozzle should I use when Power Washing?
Professional Nozzles for Pressure and Soft Washing.
Using the correct nozzle can prevent damage while achieving a thorough cleaning outcome. Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines and take into consideration the specific requirements of each surface before adjusting the pressure and nozzle accordingly. The biggest mistake in DIY pressure washing is selecting the wrong nozzle for the material being washed. Start with a very wide angle nozzle 25 degrees or more and a larger orifice that outputs less pressure than the machines highest psi. This proactive approach not only ensures efficiency but also helps prolong the lifespan of both the surface and the cleaning equipment.
Soft Washing Technique.
On the other hand, soft washing requires a different approach. This method utilizes low-pressure nozzles combined with specialized cleaning solutions to gently clean delicate surfaces like vinyl siding, fences, stucco, or roofs. Soft washing also encompasses stain removal of rust and mineral blooms like efflorescence. Some chemical are very harsh and can destroy surfaces they aren’t designed for and should be used with caution. PPE and property protection techniques like watering before you wash above plants is essential.
Soft Wash Application on Vinyl Fence
What do Professionals use to Soft Wash?
Professional pressure washing companies like MSM Surface Pro, LLC based on the North shore of Suffolk County, Long Island, NY uses state of the art gas or electric soft washing pumps or chemical injectors to spray detergents on delicate materials. This soft washing technique has different applications and special cleaning solutions for algae, mold, rust, and mineral buildup. For example, you do not want to wash a roof with the same soft wash cleaning agents as siding or pavers. Likewise, you may not remove rust from siding with the same chemical as pavers. Note: Be sure to never run chemicals through your machine without a thorough rinse of water as this will destroy the inners of the machine.
Why did my Pressure Washer ruin my Siding and Pavers?
Regardless of caution, people often power wash surfaces that should be soft washed and start with too much pressure. This often results in significantly reduced lifespan from removing the fine protective coatings on siding, fences, and damages paver surfaces and joint sand.
Why can’t I Power Wash like the Professionals?
The home store models are designed for small-scale tasks rather than larger projects. While it is possible to use them for more extensive jobs and get professional results, the time and challenges that arise during the process often outweigh the effectiveness and cost savings. The bottom line is homeowners do not have the experience or the professional grade equipment to accomplish cleaning projects as quickly with quality results as professionals. It is important to note that while pressure washing is the main DIY avenue to go down, it is not for everyone. By having the right machinery for both pressure washing and soft washing, you can tackle a wide range of cleaning tasks with precision and care.
Soft Washing Method or Power Washing?
To summarize, when deciding between soft washing and pressure washing for different parts of your house, it's essential to consider the surface material and level of grime or dirt buildup. Soft washing is typically recommended for more delicate surfaces like painted wood, stucco, vinyl siding, fences, gutters and roofing shingles. The lower pressure, high water volume and specialized cleaning solutions used in soft washing help prevent damage to these surfaces while effectively removing algae, dirt, mold, and mildew. In general, soft washing is preferred for areas that are more prone to damage, while pressure washing is ideal for heavy-duty cleaning on durable surfaces. In some cases professionals will pretreat or post treat depending on organic growth and type of material. Understanding when to use both processes in combination comes with experience and is a a reason why a pro’s are better off on some projects.
On the other hand, pressure washing is suitable for tougher surfaces such as concrete, brick, and stone. The higher pressure can easily blast away stubborn stains, oil or grease buildup, and caked-on dirt. However, it's crucial to adjust the pressure based and nozzle angles on the surface to avoid any damage, particularly to softer materials like wood. Pavers can also be susceptible to damage where the smooth decorative surface becomes removed completely.
We choose to soft wash moss, lichen and black streaks on softer roof shingles.
Researching and understanding the differences between the two methods and assessing the condition of each area in your house, you can choose the most appropriate cleaning technique to ensure effective and safe results. By knowing the specifications of your equipment, such as the gallons per minute (GPM) output and the appropriate nozzle sizes for different tasks, you can ensure that you are operating your machine safely and effectively. Using the wrong nozzle size or exceeding the recommended water flow rate can result in damage to surfaces, equipment, or even injury. It is essential to familiarize yourself with these details to maintain the longevity and performance of your machine while achieving the desired results.
Remember to follow safety guidelines, wear appropriate protective gear, and carefully read product instructions before embarking on any soft washing project.
Decisions, Decisions, Decisions. To DIY or Not DIY
In conclusion, the decision on whether to DIY power wash or not, it is clear that the decision ultimately depends on various factors. If you have prior experience, the necessary equipment, and a good understanding of the surfaces you are working with, DIY power washing could be a viable option. It can save you money and give you a sense of satisfaction in completing the task yourself.
However, if you are unsure about operating the equipment safely, concerned about damaging delicate surfaces, or simply prefer to have professionals handle the job, hiring a professional power washing service is the better choice. Professionals have the expertise to assess the surfaces, use the right techniques, and deliver efficient results without risking damage.
In the end, the key considerations are your comfort level, the complexity of the job, and the importance of achieving optimal results. Whether you choose the DIY route or opt for professional assistance, prioritizing safety, surface protection, and desired outcomes should guide your decision-making process. In the end, whichever way you decide the goal is to have a clean well maintained exterior and hardscape for your home.
We hope we helped in delivering a realistic view of DIY Power Washing. If you decide, Diy isn’t the route for you please visit or reach out MSM Surface Pro, LLC below.
