While improper techniques can damage vinyl siding as well as old and brittle roofing shingles thin exterior window glass worn timber decking and aged mortar along brick walls the right residential power washing techniques can get these surfaces.
Pressure washer damage siding.
Commercial pressure washers shoot water at pressures starting at 1500 psi which isn t too destructive but they can go upwards of 3300 psi which will blast through solid wood asphalt and even concrete i ve done it if they re close enough.
In addition to having to replace your siding there are other reasons why pressure washing vinyl siding can be problematic if not done correctly.
It does not damage plants when spraying either and is safe to add around landscaping.
Use a pressure washer to clean siding.
Oxygen bleach is a much less caustic form of bleach that also rids siding of mold and mildew.
Repair or replace loose damaged or missing siding and take special care not to spray water directly into any gaps around doors windows or under the lap joints on siding runs.
It can cause water to build up in your walls or attic.
Starting low and gently working your way up is the safest bet.
A high powered pressure washer can also dent aluminum and vinyl siding.
These electric and gas pressure washers all under 400 have good psi but are compact and safe enough for home use whether for washing siding or your car.
A commercial pressure washer which is what most people would rent over the weekend to tackle this chore can.
Dangers of damaged vinyl siding.
While it s possible to wash wood siding correctly there s also a good chance that water will find its way up and under the exterior surface if you use high pressure.
From there water can damage insulation electrical wiring and can spur mold growth.
A pressure washer can quickly ruin vinyl siding by cracking it with the high pressure stream of water so it s necessary to know which pressure level and nozzle to use.