A power washer is one of the best methods for removing dirt and peeling paint, but don't try to use it to strip all of the old paint from wood. It will dig out the softer wood and cause ridges, as well as leaving the surface rough and fuzzy. Hold the nozzle about 12 inches from the surface to prevent damaging the wood.
Most peeling paint will come off without getting so close that the wood is damaged. Try an area, then inspect your work.
Power washing is especially good for aluminum siding. After 15 to 20 years, the paint chalks heavily; power washing will remove any dirt, grit, and the chalk residue.
Most 2,000-square-feet homes can be washed in a half a day. Some scraping or sanding may still be needed, but washing provides a clean surface that paint will adhere to. You may not even need to repaint if the paint film is still intact; power washing removes residue and rejuvenates the finish.
Power washers come with extension rods or wands for reaching high areas.
Power washing is especially good for aluminum siding. After 15 to 20 years, the paint chalks heavily; power washing will remove any dirt, grit, and the chalk residue.
Most 2,000-square-feet homes can be washed in a half a day. Some scraping or sanding may still be needed, but washing provides a clean surface that paint will adhere to. You may not even need to repaint if the paint film is still intact; power washing removes residue and rejuvenates the finish.
Power washers come with extension rods or wands for reaching high areas.
Try to avoid using a ladder; the water pressure can knock you off balance and cause a fall. Be extremely careful not to work near power lines. The combination of water, electricity, and a metal wand can cause a fatal shock. Stay at least 10 feet from any power lines.
The following tips will make power washing easier and safer. Prepare any areas around power lines by hand. Always wear rubber gloves and goggles.
- Handle the power washer with caution. When you turn it on, the pressure will kick the wand back 3 to 4 feet. Never point the washer at anyone or let children use it. The water pressure is hard enough to penetrate skin. If this happens, see a doctor immediately.
- Keep the nozzle about 12 inches from the surface and at a 45-degree angle to the wall.
- Cover light fixtures and electrical outlets with duct tape.
- Put down drop cloths to collect the paint chips.
- Cover plants or bundle them and tie them back from the wall.
- Don't use the washer on windy days. The overspray will travel.
- Do not spray directly at windows from close range. The water pressure can break the glass.
- Avoid spraying under the lap siding or into openings such as eave vents.
- While you have the power washer, clean patios, decks, lawn furniture, garbage cans, or the car. It does a fabulous job.
The following tips will make power washing easier and safer. Prepare any areas around power lines by hand. Always wear rubber gloves and goggles.
- Handle the power washer with caution. When you turn it on, the pressure will kick the wand back 3 to 4 feet. Never point the washer at anyone or let children use it. The water pressure is hard enough to penetrate skin. If this happens, see a doctor immediately.
- Keep the nozzle about 12 inches from the surface and at a 45-degree angle to the wall.
- Cover light fixtures and electrical outlets with duct tape.
- Put down drop cloths to collect the paint chips.
- Cover plants or bundle them and tie them back from the wall.
- Don't use the washer on windy days. The overspray will travel.
- Do not spray directly at windows from close range. The water pressure can break the glass.
- Avoid spraying under the lap siding or into openings such as eave vents.
- While you have the power washer, clean patios, decks, lawn furniture, garbage cans, or the car. It does a fabulous job.
Using A Power Washer
In A Hour.com
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