Over time, commercial buildings tend to accumulate dirt, mildew, moss, mold, and other debris that detract from their appearance. Regular cleaning and maintenance with professional pressure washing help keep a building looking great and can increase its value in the real estate market. Click here to Learn More.
The forceful blast of water carries kinetic energy that helps break bonds with unwanted substances, making them easier to remove. The water temperature and the distance the nozzle is held from the surface also matter.
Concrete surfaces are prone to stains and buildup from dirt, grime, oil, and salt. These substances cling to concrete and cause it to break down faster than normal, leading to cracking and crumbling. Using a pressure washer is the most effective way to clean concrete surfaces. The forceful water blast carries kinetic energy that helps break the bond between the surface and the unwanted substance, allowing it to be removed. The water temperature also plays a role in the cleaning process; hot water melts grease and oils, making them easier to remove. The turbulence created by the water’s movement further aids in the removal of contaminants.
If your concrete is heavily stained, it may require pre-treatment with a chemical before being cleaned with a power washer. A degreaser, bleach or tri-sodium phosphate (TSP) can be used to treat stubborn spots. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety warnings when using these chemicals.
To use a pressure washer to clean concrete, start by choosing the appropriate nozzle and setting the PSI (pounds per square inch). A yellow 15-degree spray tip is ideal for most cleaning jobs, as it offers maximum control over where the water is directed. A higher PSI may damage the surface, so it’s important to test the pressure washer on a less visible area first.
When you’re ready to begin, start at one corner of the concrete and work your way across, overlapping each stroke by about 6 to 8 inches. For tougher stains, you can switch to the higher-pressure red 0-degree nozzle for a more concentrated stream of water. Remember to move slowly and change the direction of the nozzle as necessary, so you don’t damage the surface or leave etchings behind.
Once the concrete is clean, it’s a good idea to apply a concrete sealer to protect it from future staining and damage. Be sure to rinse the concrete thoroughly after applying the sealer, and direct the water flow away from storm drains so it doesn’t wash pollutants into nearby waterways. If you’re not comfortable operating a power washer, or would like to avoid damaging your concrete, consider hiring a professional for the job.
Cleaning Brick
Brick is a popular construction material that elevates the appearance of homes and buildings while offering durability. But it’s not a maintenance-free material and, just like any other surface, brick needs regular cleaning to remove dirt, grime, mildew, mold, bird excrement, grease, oil, and other pollutants that can stick to or grow on its walls. Luckily, cleaning brick with a pressure washer is a simple and effective way to restore its luster and extend its lifespan.
Prior to beginning the cleaning process, homeowners should ensure their pressure washer is properly equipped with a detergent tank that holds an eco-friendly, brick-safe cleaning solution. It’s also important to test the spray setting on an inconspicuous area of the brick surface to determine the right amount of pressure to safely clean the wall. Finally, homeowners should prepare their work area by removing furniture, decorations, or other objects that could be damaged by the power washer’s high-pressure stream. Also, they should trim back plants and bushes that touch the brick wall to prevent harming them with detergent solutions or water sprays.
Once the work area is prepared, homeowners should start the cleaning process by hose-down the surface to thoroughly soak it. Next, they should apply the cleaning solution using a delicate spray pattern that is appropriate for the style and condition of their brick walls. Then, they should begin washing the surface from the bottom of the wall and work their way upwards. Allow the cleaning solution to remain on the brick surface for several minutes before rinsing it off with clean water.
Once the brick surface is completely rinsed, it’s important to let it dry completely prior to attempting to paint or apply a sealant. Brick is very porous and requires a lot of time to fully dry out. As such, it’s crucial to schedule this project for a day of mild weather that can give the surface plenty of time to absorb moisture and completely dry. If this isn’t possible, the homeowner should allow three to four days for proper drying time. This will ensure the brick is free from any remaining moisture and allows it to fully absorb and cure any paint or sealant applied to its surface.
Cleaning Wood
Pressure washing is an effective way to clean wood. However, the technique must be used carefully to avoid damage. If the water pressure is too high, it can strip away the natural oils in wood, which makes it dull and brittle. In addition, it can also remove any paint that has been applied to the surface of the wood. Therefore, it is best to hire a professional that understands how to use the right amount of pressure on wood surfaces.
The force of pressurized water is effective on wood because it carries kinetic energy and creates turbulence that breaks down and dislodges dirt and grime from the surface. The water temperature also plays an important role, as some contaminants can be removed more easily when it is hot.
Regular cleaning with a pressure washer can keep your deck or other wooden structures looking their best. Over time, exposure to sunlight grays the wood, and the occasional power wash will brighten it back up. In addition, it can help to eliminate stains caused by mildew and mold, and it will also prevent the wood from rotting.
If your deck or other wood structure is in poor condition, you should consider using oxalic acid to treat it before you pressure wash. This chemical can be found at most hardware stores and is safe for most types of wood, but it may splinter the surface of some types of wood. If you notice signs of splintering, sand the surface of the wood lightly with medium-grit sandpaper to reduce the risk of further damage.
Before you start pressure washing, test the water pressure in an inconspicuous area. Ideally, you should use a quick-connect nozzle that has a wide fan and is set to 25 degrees. This nozzle will allow you to spray the surface evenly without damaging it. It’s also a good idea to move the nozzle around constantly to prevent uneven spots or lap marks.
When you’re finished, it’s important to let the wood dry for 24 to 72 hours. This will give the pores of the wood a chance to open and release any moisture absorbed during the cleaning process. After the wood has dried, you can apply a stain or sealant to protect it from the elements.
Cleaning Metal
One of the most common issues that people face with their exterior metal surfaces is rust stains. These unsightly orange stains are often the result of oxidation and can quickly eat away at any metal surface they’re on, including outdoor furniture, fences, doors, roofs and even cars. Fortunately, the right pressure washing equipment can help eliminate these ugly stains and restore the look and function of your metal property.
For the best results, you’ll want to use a high-pressure washer with a nozzle that can handle at least 5000 psi. You’ll also need a wide-angle hose attachment to ensure that you can get all of the cracks and crevices that are so difficult to reach with traditional cleaning methods. A metal-safe cleaning solution can be used to loosen up the rust and corrosion, and the power washer can then blast it away.
The great thing about using a pressure washer to remove rust is that it’s relatively safe to do so, even for inexperienced home owners. However, it’s important to always wear appropriate protective gear like a hat, goggles and rubber gloves when operating a power washer.
Regularly cleaning your metal surfaces with a pressure washer can make them last longer and increase their overall value. Not only will they look better, but they’ll be less susceptible to damage and decay. And if you do decide to repaint your property, a good pressure wash will ensure that the new coat of paint adheres properly and looks great.