Pressure washing is a powerful way to rejuvenate your home’s exterior, removing dirt, mold, mildew, and other contaminants. However, proper preparation ensures the process runs smoothly, prevents potential damage, and delivers the best results. This article offers a comprehensive guide on preparing your home for a pressure washing service, drawing from the best practices used by Patriot Pro Exterior Cleaning.
1. Clear the Area Around the Home
Start by removing outdoor furniture, planters, and decorations from areas to be cleaned. This step helps avoid damage to personal belongings and gives the professionals access to every surface. Don’t forget to relocate fragile items, such as glass ornaments and flower pots.
Tip:
If heavy furniture or grills are difficult to move, cover them with tarps to protect them from water spray or debris.
2. Protect Your Plants and Landscaping
Pressure washing involves water and, in some cases, cleaning detergents, which might affect delicate plants. Take time to cover flower beds with plastic sheeting to shield them from runoff. You may also want to water your plants thoroughly before the service to reduce the absorption of any chemicals used.
Eco-Friendly Solutions
Patriot Pro Exterior Cleaning emphasizes using biodegradable cleaning agents to reduce environmental impact and ensure landscaping stays intact.
3. Secure Doors, Windows, and Vents
Ensure all windows and doors are tightly closed to prevent water from seeping indoors. Also, cover exterior vents (like dryer vents) to avoid water entering unwanted spaces.
What to Look Out For:
If your home has any cracks around doors or windows, seal them temporarily to avoid water intrusion during the cleaning process.
4. Inspect the Exterior for Damage
Pressure washing can aggravate existing damage. Walk around your property and inspect walls, gutters, decks, or fences for loose siding, cracks, or paint that is peeling. Let the service professionals know if you find any areas that need special attention.
Avoiding Damage with Professional Help
Experts like Patriot Pro Exterior Cleaning can adjust pressure settings for delicate surfaces to prevent further deterioration.
5. Turn Off Outdoor Power Sources
Since pressure washing involves water, it’s essential to protect electrical components. Turn off outdoor power outlets and cover light fixtures to prevent electrical hazards. If you have security cameras or doorbells, notify your pressure washing company to take precautions.
Pro Tip:
Wrap outlets and electrical panels with waterproof covers or heavy-duty plastic to ensure they remain safe.
6. Communicate Areas of Concern to the Professionals
If you have surfaces requiring special treatment—like wood, vinyl, or fragile stucco—inform the pressure washing service beforehand. A professional service like Patriot Pro Exterior Cleaning offers both pressure washing and soft washing options to handle surfaces differently based on material sensitivity.
7. Plan for Pets and Children
Pressure washing equipment can be loud, creating stress for pets or small children. Make arrangements to keep them indoors during the service. Additionally, plan the timing of the service to avoid disruptions, especially if the noise will interfere with household activities.
8. Provide Easy Access to Water Supply
Ensure that the professionals can easily connect their equipment to your water supply. Clear pathways to outdoor spigots or water sources to avoid delays. Some companies may also need to run long hoses, so make sure there are no obstacles along their route.
9. Prepare Driveways, Patios, and Decks
Driveways and patios often accumulate dirt, oil, and debris, which pressure washing can remove effectively. Move vehicles out of the driveway to allow thorough cleaning. For decks, remove furniture and give the professionals a clear surface to work on.
10. Mark Delicate Features for Protection
If you have delicate features like stained wood, fragile light fixtures, or antique garden elements, mark these areas and alert the professionals. This ensures they take extra care or use a lower-pressure setting to avoid damage.
11. Understand Post-Cleaning Expectations
Pressure washing can leave certain surfaces slightly wet for a few hours. Plan for drying time before placing furniture and other items back in place. After the cleaning, inspect the work and ensure the service met your expectations. Professionals from Patriot Pro Exterior Cleaning will walk you through the cleaned areas and address any remaining concerns.
12. Conclusion
Preparing your home for a pressure washing service ensures a smooth and efficient process. By following these steps—clearing the area, protecting plants, securing openings, and communicating with professionals—you can guarantee the best results without any damage. For a hassle-free experience, hire experienced professionals like Patriot Pro Exterior Cleaning, who prioritize both customer satisfaction and environmentally friendly practices.
