There’s nothing more satisfying than a pressure washer clean, but using this tool on these five specific surfaces can often cause more harm than good
Pressure washers are undoubtedly an effective way to expedite cleaning and target stubborn stains and grime in your garden. However, experts warn against certain materials and surfaces that should be avoided at all costs when using this cleaning device.
A pressure washer does precisely as the name suggests, expelling water at an extremely high pressure, commonly used to clear away a build-up of grime and dirt, particularly in outdoor spaces. However, while it can provide an undeniable satisfying clean, understanding the limitations and correct usage of the tool can help prevent unnecessary damage.
While it may seem like a no-brainer, delicate surfaces such as wood, painted surfaces, and old brickwork should be avoided when using a pressure washer. The intense jet of water has the ability to strip paint, splinter wood, and erode mortar between old bricks.
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The immense water pressure is also a significant threat to glass, known to crack or even break windows. Landscaping expert at Toolstation, Claire Bagli, explains: “Incorrect use can lead to damaged surfaces and items which can be very costly to fix or replace. In a worst-case scenario, you could even cause serious injury.”
Claire shares her expertise and reveals the five surfaces to never clean with a pressure washer. With the first being any painted surface.
Painted surfaces tend to chip or even peel when cleaned with a pressure washer, so unless the aim is to remove the paint, it’s best to avoid targeting these surfaces. Additionally, brick and mortar are relatively porous materials that can absorb moisture, which can lead to cracking as they dry out.
It’s also essential to steer clear of glass. The high-pressure water stream can penetrate the window seals, causing lasting damage and dampness, which could lead to a mould outbreak. Not only that, but the pressure is also known to shatter windows, leaving you with an expensive repair bill.
Similarly, pressure washing should not be done on solar panels, despite how much dirt they have accumulated. The device can scratch the surface of the panels, ultimately reducing their efficiency.
Last but not least, roof tiles are certainly off-limits. Not only is working at such heights extremely hazardous, but the intense water pressure can also loosen the tiles, which may cause them to detach, posing potential risks to anyone below and increasing the likelihood of leaks and damage to the roof.
As homeowners start their spring cleaning and retrieve their reliable pressure washer, keep in mind these five surfaces that should be avoided, and you’ll have your home and garden in tip-top shape ahead of summer.