By Mark J. Donovan
Removing dirt, mold and mildew from your home siding can be done by hand with an ordinary brush, a bucket of soapy water and a lot of elbow grease.
But a much faster and better way is with a pressure washer. A pressure washer is the ideal tool for removing tough dirt, mold and mildew from your home’s siding.
What is a Pressure Washer?
- It is a hand held device that outputs a stream of jet water at a very high pressure.
- Typically the output water pressure rate is between 1500 to 3500 psi.
- There are a variety of types on the market; however there are 2 major types, electric and gas powered.
I prefer the gas powered as they available with higher output nozzle pressures and do not require an electrical wire to be dragged around the home which can create a safety issue. Water hoses and Electricity don’t mix well. Not to mention, they it is just another line to drag behind the pressure washer.
Pressure washers come with a varitye of nozzle types to provide for different output water pressures.
They are typically used in a variety of cleaning applications including, removing dirt off homes, driveways, decks, patios, cars and boats.
A gas pressure washer costs in the range of $200-500. Electric Pressure washers cost in the range of $100 to $300. Both types are portable and are usually pulled along on wheels. All they require is a water hose and a source of power, gas for the gas types and electricity for the electric versions.
Using a Power Washer
When cleaning a house, stand about 10 feet away from the home when using the power washer. Aim the spray nozzle in a downward angle to the home siding when spraying to prevent water from penetrating up and behind the siding. Also avoid spraying electrical boxes or windows as you could cause an electrical short or damage the windows. When using cleaning detergents make sure you completely rinse it off the home, as the chemicals left on the home could damage it.
Safety
Pressure washers output a water stream that can punch a hole through siding and remove paint off a deck. Consequently they can be dangerous. Eye protection and proper work clothes should be worn when using one.
Power Washers are a great time and elbow saver, and are well worth the investment. Check one out at your local home improvement store and good luck cleaning your home siding.
For more information on Power Washers see our Video on "Power Washers and Cleaning Home Siding".
