Pressure washing your house can make it look brand new, boost curb appeal, and even prevent long-term damage from mold, mildew, and grime. But if you’ve never handled a pressure washer before, the process can seem intimidating.
Don’t worry—with the right techniques, you can do at-home power washing like a pro without risking damage to your home. This guide walks you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right equipment to mastering the best cleaning techniques.
Continue reading below.
Cleaning maintenance service for washing siding house and maintaining the home a high-pressure spray nozzle with soap cleaner and water
Gather the Right Equipment
Before you start, make sure you have the right tools for the job. Here’s what you’ll need:
A pressure washer (you can choose from different electric pressure washers or gas-powered ones);
Nozzle tips including a soap nozzle and varying nozzle angles;
A home- and beginner-friendly cleaning solution;
A Garden hose for steady water supply;
Protective gear such as safety glasses, a pair of work gloves, closed-toe shoes, and so on;
Extension wand for hard-to-reach areas in your house; as well as
Drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect plants and your windows.
A gas-powered pressure washer offers more power, but an electric one is lighter and quieter. For most homes, a medium-duty washer works best in dealing with regular stains and dirt on different surfaces.
If at this point you’re anxious about doing pressure washing yourself, you can work with an exterior cleaning company to do it on your behalf. More will be discussed in the latter part of this post.
Prepare Your Home and Work Area
Pressure washing can be messy, so prep your space to avoid damage.
First, close your windows and doors to prevent water from seeping inside. Cover outdoor outlets and light fixtures with waterproof tape or plastic as well.
Don’t forget to wet nearby plants and cover them with drop cloths to shield them from harsh chemicals. Move outdoor furniture, grills, and decor out of the way too.
Finally, check for any loose siding, paint, or cracks—pressure washing can worsen existing damage.
Taking these steps ensures a smooth, accident-free cleaning session.
Choose the Correct Nozzle and Pressure
Not all surfaces can handle the same pressure. Using the wrong nozzle can strip paint, dent wood, or crack windows. Here’s a quick guide on what type of nozzle should you use for different purposes:
0° (red nozzle): Strongest spray—avoid on most house surfaces (use for tough concrete stains).
15° (yellow nozzle): Good for stubborn grime on driveways or brick.
25° (green nozzle): Best for most siding (vinyl, wood, stucco).
40° (white nozzle): Gentle spray for windows, screens, and delicate surfaces.
Soap nozzle (black): Used for applying detergent.
Start with a 25° or 40° nozzle and increase pressure only if needed. Hold the wand two to three feet from the surface to prevent damage.
Apply Detergent for Deep Cleaning
For mold, mildew, or heavy dirt, a cleaning solution helps break down grime before rinsing.
Fill the detergent tank with a cleaner made for your siding (avoid bleach on plants) as a first step. Next, attach the soap nozzle and spray from bottom to top to prevent streaks. Let it sit for a few minutes but don’t let it dry. Finally, switch to a rinse nozzle and wash from top to bottom this time.
Pro tip: test the detergent on a small area first to ensure it won’t discolor your siding.
Use the Right Washing Technique
Now for the main event—pressure washing like a pro to tidy up your house. Follow these best practices:
Work top to bottom—this prevents streaks and ensures dirty water doesn’t run over clean areas.
Keep the wand moving. Why? Lingering in one spot can cause damage.
Maintain a consistent distance of two to three feet from the surface you’re cleaning.
Overlap each cleaning pass ever so slightly for a much more even cleaning.
Rinse thoroughly—leftover soap can leave an unmistakable and easy-to-spot residue.
For two-story homes, use an extension wand or ladder (but never pressure wash while on a ladder—the kickback can be dangerous).
Handle Tough Stains Carefully
Indeed, some stains need extra attention.
If you’re handling mold and mildew at home, use a mold-killing detergent and the appropriate nozzle angle. Apply a rust remover before washing for rusted areas. Lastly, gently scrape off loose paint first to avoid spreading it if you’re going to clean splattered paint surfaces.
If stains persist, you may need to repeat the process or use a specialized cleaner.
Avoid Common Pressure Washing Mistakes
Even pros make mistakes, but you can avoid them.
Primarily, don’t use too much pressure. Why? High pounds per square inch (PSI) can gouge wood, crack mortar, or strip paint. Use the appropriate PSI per the instruction manual of your pressure washer’s manufacturer.
Flying debris and chemical splashes are real hazards. Never ignore using and wearing your protective gear.
Next, don’t spray upward. This forces water behind your siding, leading to moisture damage.
Finally, never skip rinsing – soap residue attracts dirt, making your house look dirty faster.
Stick to the right at-home high-powered washing techniques, and your home will thank you.
Rinse and Inspect Your Work
Once you’ve washed the entire house.
Do a final rinse with clean water to remove all detergent. Check for missed spots as well—touch them up if needed. Lastly, let the surface dry before inspecting for damage or lingering stains.
If you notice any issues (like peeling paint or water intrusion), address them promptly.
Clean and Store Your Pressure Washer Properly
Proper maintenance keeps your pressure washer unit running for longer. The following are top maintenance tips: flush the system by running clean water through it, disconnect hoses and nozzles and store them properly to prevent mold, and so on.
Remember: a well-maintained pressure washer will last for years.
Know When to Call a Professional
While do-it-yourself (DIY) pressure washing saves money, some jobs need an expert. Below are some of them:
High-risk areas like roofs or fragile historic homes;
Extreme stains that won’t budge without the help of professional-grade cleaning solutions and tools;
Electrical or structural concerns near wiring or weak siding; and what not.
If in doubt, hire a pro to avoid costly mistakes.
Enjoy Your Like-New Home Now
Pressure washing is one of the fastest, most effective ways to refresh your home’s exterior. With the right tools, techniques, and safety precautions, you can achieve professional-level results without the high cost.
Now step back and admire your work—your house will look cleaner, brighter, and well-maintained. Ready to tackle the next home improvement project? You’ve got this!
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