Pressure washing your vinyl siding can be simple, safe and quick if you follow the below tips and tricks.

How much pressure to use?

When pressure washing your vinyl siding, make sure you are using a lower water pressure so the water doesn’t get behind the siding which can damage the surface. You can slightly increase the pressure if you need, but you should always make sure to start on the lowest pressure. 

Should I Use Detergent? 

Washing with a detergent is always better than using just water. Most pressure washers include a spot to put the detergent so it comes out directly in the jet stream. However, before purchasing any detergents make sure it is made for pressure washing. This will be located directly on the label. By making sure you have the right detergent, you are ensuring the detergent is environmentally friendly and will not damage your pressure washer. 

Steps to pressure washing vinyl siding

When using the detergent, make sure you are using the pressure washer on low. Starting from the bottom and working your way up will help to ensure there will be no streaks. 

If your home has never been pressure washed, or it’s been a while, you might want to use a brush. This will help loosen all the layers of dirt that have been sitting there since who knows when. All you need to do is attach the brush to the pressure washer wand.

Once you apply the detergent, let it sit for 5-10 minutes so it has time to breakdown all of the gunk. If it’s warm outside, make sure not it doesn’t dry on the surface. This could mean to rinse it off before the 5-10 minutes.

Now it’s time to rinse off the detergent with the pressure washer. The key is to give yourself enough distance between you and the siding to ensure you do not damage the exterior. Make sure you set your machine on low-pressure. Once you begin you can gradually move closer to the building if you need more pressure. Make sure you are using a general-use wand tip which provides a 15-20 degree angle that will provide a stronger pressure stream to remove the soap and dirt. 

After rinsing off the dirt and soap, use a dry towel to wipe the residue of the inner and outer corners of the siding. This can also help prevent water damage. 

Tips when pressure washing the siding: 

When spraying your sidings, make sure you are not spraying any vents or light fixtures. The pressure can break these items.

Keep the wand pointing down when you are using the pressure washer so you don’t end up spraying under the laps of the siding. 

For two-story homes, consider using a gas-powered pressure washer (these are more powerful and can reach higher). Or consider purchasing an extension wand for your electric powered pressure washer. 

Before you start pressure washing your vinyl siding, make sure you inspect around the house to make sure everything is intact and there are no loose pieces of vinyl. Make sure all of your windows are shut before beginning as well.

 

 

 

If you currently live in the state of Utah and are looking for pressure washing services for the vinyl on your home, contact our sister company AJET Services (801-330-0398 or contact@ajetservices.com)