How To Power Wash Your Hardscapes

Investing in your outdoor living space will pay off in the long run. This will boost your home’s curb appeal and resale value. If you want to extend your living space, hardscaping can do the trick. The term hardscape refers to any man-made features and elements in your landscape architecture. Examples of hardscape structures are fountains, benches, pathways, and paved areas.

Although a hardscape can last for a long time, it still needs some TLC. Is there a lot of dirt and grime on the exterior surfaces? A power washer is the right tool. However, improper power washing can cause damage to your plants. Learn how to power wash your hardscapes with these tips and tricks:

Siding

Before you clean tough stains off, disable all electric outlets located outside. Covering all exterior outlets will prevent them from getting wet. You should also close all windows and doors prior to power washing. 

When cleaning your home’s vinyl siding, work the power sprayer from the top down. Use a bleach-free cleaning solution to remove as much dirt as possible. Avoid using bleach is not because it can remove UV protection from the siding. 

Set the power washer to the lower setting and avoid light fixtures or windows. Rinse the siding from the top down to achieve a clean appearance.

Bricks

First, repair cracked brick mortar joints. Apply new mortar until the joints are filled completely. The new mortar should be left to dry for four to five days. Then, load the power washer tank with a cleaning solution for bricks. Start from top to bottom, and spray in a circular motion. 

Remember to set it to the lowest setting and avoid holding the power washer in one spot. 

Clean your brick walls or pavers until all dirt is removed. Let the bricks dry completely. To prevent stains from accumulating, apply a siloxane or silicone sealant on the surface.

Driveways and Sidewalks

Dirty concrete surfaces are definitely an eyesore. Power washing your driveway and sidewalks will make them look good again. This method removes dirt without hard scrubbing or harsh materials. Aside from this, a power washer can also get rid of mildew and tough concrete stains.

Patios and Decks

Before you start anything, remove your outdoor furniture and potted plants in your patio or deck. Use the lowest possible setting, then increase the pressure until you find the right setting. Hose down your patio or deck from the house outward. Wait for several days before you re-apply the stain.

General Power Washing Tips

Power washing can be dangerous and damaging if you don’t know how to use it properly. Here is a list of tips for the best cleaning results.

• Choose the Right Washer

When you look for power washers in hardware stores or online, you will see a bunch of models available. There are consumer models with electric motors, gas-powered models, and professional models. You must choose the right one for your specific needs. 

For light DIY cleaning projects, consumer models with electric motors are perfect for you!

• Prioritize Your Safety

Improper use of power washers can injure people. Make sure to operate the unit properly. Before you start, read the instructions and understand them. You should also wear protective clothing like safety goggles, ear protection, and boots.

Moreover, your plants may get damaged during the cleaning process. Cover them properly with traps. These will protect your plants and minimize their exposure to detergents or cleaning solutions. Lastly, do not point the power sprayer at other people or animals.

• Hire A Landscaping Expert

While power washing may be considered a DIY project, it’s better to hire the pros. Professional landscaping experts know how to handle any of your cleaning problems. They will use eco-friendly detergents to avoid causing harm to your softscapes. In addition, these power wash companies are trained to clean residential and commercial exteriors.

Call Us for Carlisle Landscaping Services

At Midstate Landscaping, we are dedicated to providing you with exceptional landscaping services. Our trusted team specializes in hardscaping, lawn care, and yard maintenance. If you need someone to design a custom patio or trim your lawn, we are here for you! Our company also offers mulching and snow removal during the winter season. To schedule an appointment with us, kindly contact our staff today.