Over time, mould, mildew, dirt, deep-set grime and other substances can build up on surfaces. This not only looks unsightly but can also impact the health of those on the property.
Many home improvement projects require the surface to be cleaned prior to application. This includes painting, sealing and staining. A clean surface will allow the finish to adhere and last longer.
Dirt Removal
Dirt and grime build-up doesn’t just look bad; it can lead to damage to surfaces, and over time creates a hospitable environment for bacteria and vermin. Luckily, it doesn’t take long for pressure washing to clean surfaces and remove accumulated dirt.
The process uses specialised equipment that transforms regular water flows into high-pressure water jets. This form of cleaning is popular with businesses and homeowners for many applications, including concrete driveways, tiled outdoor areas, timber decking, and building exteriors.
To power wash, water enters the machine through a trigger gun, swivels around a bar and sprays out of specifically sized nozzles. This allows the water to blast away a variety of substances such as dirt, mud, loose paint, mould, and moss. Some surfaces need more power to remove stains, so the nozzle is adjusted accordingly. Some surfaces, such as brick, are very delicate and must be cleaned with lower water pressure settings. Our professionals use environmentally friendly, non-corrosive cleaners such as Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner to ensure that your surface is clean without damaging it.
Graffiti Removal
In addition to cleaning a surface and restoring its appearance, pressure cleaning is also effective at removing graffiti. Various methods can be used, depending on things like the type of paint or markers used to create the ‘art’ and the material from which the surface is made. The temperature of the surface should also be considered; hot water and a higher flow rate work best on hard surfaces, while cold weather may require a longer dwell time.
Regardless of the method chosen, pre-spraying the surface with a graffiti removal chemical from one of the leading brands helps to remove the paint more efficiently. This can also prevent damage to the underlying surface, such as wood panels or stucco walls. After the graffiti has been removed, a thorough rinse with clean water will reveal a wall that is both clean and free of any’shadows’ left behind from the unwanted art. This can be particularly important for commercial buildings, where a fresh coat of paint can make or break business.
Cleaner Appearance
A pressure washer is one of the only cleaning tools that can remove moss, lichen, and fungus from surfaces. These substances not only make buildings and outdoor items look dingy, they can also damage the surfaces. A regular blast of clean water from a pressure cleaner keeps them looking great and can actually extend their lifespans.
If you’re planning a major renovation project like a fresh coat of paint or new driveway, it’s important to get the area clean first with a good pressure wash. Then the new materials will adhere and last longer. The same goes for gutter cleaning, which should be done regularly to prevent clogs that can lead to roof and home damage. Simple Green’s line of Safer Choice cleaners are made specifically for use with pressure washing and remove dirt, stains, and grime without damaging surfaces or the environment.
Safety
Pressure washing removes dirt, grime, moss, salt, mud and chewing gum from surfaces. It also gets into the smallest crevices and loosens mildew, mold and other substances that can damage your property over time. By preventing these materials from growing and damaging your building or outdoor items, pressure cleaning saves you money in the long run.
The best way to ensure safety while using a pressure washer is to have a professional handle it. However, if you must use one on your own, make sure to read the instruction manual carefully and wear protective gear. This includes a mask, eyewear and closed-toed shoes. Before you start, move or cover plants and other landscaping that may get sprayed and take steps to shut off power to exterior outlets in the area where you will be working, Popular Mechanics notes.
Be sure to use only non-toxic cleaners with your pressure washer. Simple Green’s line of Oxy Solve products is a Safer Choice, approved by the EPA for being safer for the environment and your equipment and surfaces.
