High-pressure cleaning is an effective way to remove dirt, mould, mildew, and grime from your home’s exterior, leaving it looking fresh and well-maintained. However, proper preparation is essential to ensure the process is smooth, safe, and efficient. If you’re scheduling a professional service, following a few key steps will help protect your property and maximise the results. We’ve compiled this blog to walk you through the best pressure cleaning tips to get your home ready for a thorough wash.
Why Prepare For High-Pressure Cleaning?
Pressure washing your home can remove stubborn stains and extend the life of surfaces like siding, driveways, decks, and patios. However, without proper preparation, the forceful water spray may damage sensitive areas or leave behind uneven results.
- Protection of delicate surfaces and items
- More effective removal of dirt and buildup
- A faster and hassle-free cleaning process
- Reduced risk of damage to windows, doors, and landscaping
Now, let’s go through the pressure washing tips for house cleaning that will help you achieve the best results.
Research And Choose The Right Service
If you’re hiring a professional pressure washing company, start by researching and selecting a reputable service provider.
- Positive customer reviews
- Proper certifications and licences
- Experience in handling various home exteriors
- Transparent pricing and service details
Discuss the areas that need cleaning, ask about their cleaning techniques, and ensure they use eco-friendly cleaning agents if required.
Inspect Your Home’s Exterior
Before the cleaning begins, conduct a thorough inspection of your home’s exterior.
- Cracks in the walls that could let water seep in
- Peeling paint that could be stripped away during washing
- Mould or mildew buildup that might require special treatment
Addressing these issues before pressure washing helps prevent further damage.
Remove Outdoor Furniture And Decorations
To avoid damage or obstruction during cleaning, move outdoor furniture, planters, doormats, and decorative items away from the cleaning area. If some items are too large to move, cover them with waterproof tarps to protect them from water and detergent.
Secure Doors And Windows
Ensure that all doors and windows are tightly closed before the pressure washing begins. Water can easily seep through even the smallest gaps, potentially causing damage to your home’s interior. If you have loose window screens, consider removing them temporarily to prevent dislodging.
Protect Electrical Outlets And Fixtures
Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Cover all outdoor electrical outlets, light fixtures, and power sources with waterproof covers or plastic wrap secured with tape. This prevents water from getting inside and causing electrical issues.
Trim Nearby Plants And Bushes
Overgrown plants and shrubs near your home’s exterior can obstruct the cleaning process and might get damaged by the high-pressure water. Trim back any branches or bushes for better access to walls, decks, and patios. This also prevents dirt and debris from splashing onto cleaned surfaces.
Identify Delicate Areas
Some materials and surfaces are more sensitive to high-pressure washing than others. Softwoods, vinyl siding, and aged brickwork may require lower-pressure settings or alternative cleaning methods. Discuss these areas with your pressure washing provider to ensure they use the right techniques.
Clear The Driveway And Walkways
If you’re getting your driveway, walkways, or patio cleaned, ensure to remove cars, bicycles, potted plants, and any obstacles. This provides an open space for thorough cleaning and prevents dirt from splashing onto other surfaces.
Inform Household Members And Neighbours
Let everyone in your household know about the scheduled cleaning so they can plan accordingly. If you live in a closely packed neighbourhood, inform your neighbours as well. This way, they can move any items that might be affected and avoid unnecessary disruptions.
Secure Pets And Children
The noise and water pressure from high-pressure cleaning can be startling for pets and small children. Keep pets indoors and ensure children stay away from the cleaning area for their safety.
Address Mould And Stains In Advance
If you have areas with significant mould, mildew, or stains, consider applying a pre-treatment solution a day before the pressure washing. Some professionals offer this service, but you can also use a mixture of water and mild detergent to loosen stubborn buildup before the cleaning process begins.
Communicate Special Instructions To The Cleaning Crew
If there are areas that require extra attention or places you want the crew to avoid, communicate this before they start. Clear instructions are beneficial to ensure that delicate surfaces aren’t damaged and that high-priority areas receive proper treatment.
Plan For Drying Time
After the cleaning process, your home’s exterior will take some time to dry. Plan accordingly, especially if you need to use outdoor furniture or drive on a freshly cleaned surface. Allow at least 24 hours for proper drying before placing items back.
Check For Post-Cleaning Touch-Ups
Once the pressure washing is done, walk around your home to inspect the results. Look for any areas that may need additional touch-ups or rinsing. If you notice any spots that were missed, you can address them immediately while surfaces are still wet.
Consider Regular Maintenance
Regular pressure washing helps maintain your home’s appearance and prevents long-term damage from dirt and grime buildup.
- Schedule professional pressure cleaning at least once a year
- Rinse exterior surfaces occasionally to prevent buildup
- Apply protective sealants on decks, patios, and driveways after washing
Bottom Line
Proper preparation is the key to achieving the best results from pressure washing your home. By taking these steps, you can protect your property, make the cleaning process more efficient, and get long-lasting results. If you’re looking for expert deep cleaning services in Sydney, choose a trusted provider like Elite Property Northern Beaches, which understands your home’s unique needs. Get in touch with us today so that your property stays in great condition for years to come.
