The pressure washing industry is growing at an average rate of 5.7% per year. Pressure washing is a satisfying and efficient way to clean outdoor surfaces, but it’s not suitable for everything. Let’s explore four unexpected surfaces you can safely pressure wash and three you should avoid at all costs.
4 Surprising Surfaces Safe for Pressure Washing
1. Outdoor Grills
After a summer of barbecues, your grill might look worse for wear. Surprisingly, many outdoor grills can handle a good pressure washing. Remove any electrical components and cover sensitive areas with plastic wrap. Use a gentle detergent and a wide nozzle to blast away grease and grime, leaving your grill looking almost new.
2. Outdoor Playground Equipment
Children’s outdoor play equipment can accumulate dirt, algae, and even harmful bacteria over time. Most metal and plastic playground structures can be safely pressure washed. Use a low-pressure setting and keep the nozzle at least 18 inches away from the surface to avoid damage. This cleaning method can rejuvenate the equipment and make it safer for children to use. While you’re out there, you can even clean your vinyl fence if you want to.
3. Outdoor Cushions and Umbrellas
Yes, you read that right! Many outdoor fabric items can be pressure washed. Place cushions and umbrellas on a flat surface and use a wide nozzle with a low-pressure setting. Keep the nozzle moving to avoid saturating any one area. This method can remove stubborn stains and mildew that regular washing can’t touch.
4. Trash Cans
While it might not be the most glamorous task, pressure washing your outdoor trash cans can significantly reduce odors and bacteria. Place the cans on their sides, spray them inside and out with a degreasing solution, then blast away with your pressure washer. Your nose (and your neighbors) might just thank you.
3 Surfaces You Should Never Pressure Wash
1. Painted Surfaces
While some paints can withstand pressure washing, many cannot. The high-pressure stream can easily chip or peel paint, especially on older surfaces. This includes siding, decks, and fences. If you must clean these areas, use a low-pressure setting or opt for gentler cleaning methods.
2. Windows and Window Screens
The force from a pressure washer can easily break glass or damage window seals, leading to costly repairs. Window screens are even more vulnerable, as the high pressure can tear or deform the delicate mesh. Stick to traditional cleaning methods for these surfaces.
3. Living Things
This might seem obvious, but from what we know, it bears repeating: never pressure wash people, pets, or plants. The intense water stream can cause serious injury to living beings and can damage or kill plants. Keep your pressure washer aimed at inanimate objects only.
While pressure washing is a powerful cleaning tool, it’s important to know its limits. By understanding which surfaces can handle the pressure and which can’t, you’ll be able to maintain your property effectively without causing unintended damage.
If you have a pressure washing job you’d rather hand off to the professionals, please check out our pressure washing services page or get in touch for a free quote.
